The audiobook was done well. Both narrators did a great job, even though the different character voices were odd at times.
As for the story itself, it was a lot of telling, not showing. We’re told they’re in love, but there wasn’t much evidence it. I just wasn’t invested in their romance. Maybe if I had watched them fall in love, I would have felt differently. The book seemed to drag at times and was a bit repetitive. A lot of them telling themselves they couldn’t have the other. Overall, it was a cute read.

4⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to listen to Sense and Suitability in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This was my first Pepper Basham book, and I really enjoyed it! It gave me total Pride and Prejudice meets Bridgerton vibes—with the Regency charm, sweet slow-burn romance, and plenty of witty moments. The dual narrators made the audiobook a treat to listen to, bringing the characters to life in such a warm and engaging way 🎧📚.

I especially loved Simon’s younger siblings—they were such a fun, heartwarming part of the story and made me smile every time they showed up. The whole book gave me cozy, comforting feelings, like curling up with a cup of tea and something soft and familiar 🫖💛.

I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author. This one was such a lovely listen!

#SenseAndSuitability #NetGalley

Thank you NetGalley for this Arc-
Audio production of Sense and Suitability.

I enjoyed both narrators and appreciated the dual narrators for the FMC and MMC. They both had clear and understandable voices. Although, I wish the male FMC had a more prominent English accent, I did enjoy his narration. The audio book helped the pacing of the story when it seemed a bit too slow.

I was a little disappointed in Emmaline, that she loved writing but considered not writing for Simon. However, I did like that Simon did not know about her funds until the end and it wasn’t a bearing on his choice to marry her. However, I wish we could have seen them fall in love in the beginning, instead of starting after the gilt.

I felt like there were way too many Jane Austen references throughout and less actual regency situations, customs, or clothing. However, I did like how both sides of Simon and Emma’s family are involved and assist in carrying the plot.
This was a very light read and predictable.

Sense and Suitability is a sweet and clean regency romance, written in a style that lovers of Jane Austen will appreciate. I've previously read Pepper's Skymar series, but this one was set in the early 1800s and had a more serious/historical tone.

Quick Plot Overview: Emmeline thought she had the perfect suitor in Simon. Just as she anticipated his proposal, SImon learns of his family's loss of fortune and has to change plans to save his estate. Devastated, Emmeline tries to regain her composure and find her way as she works to keep her authorship of several gothic novels as secret from society. Simon and his siblings continue to encounter Emmeline, making the reader root for this second-chance love story. But without money or the respect of society, these two many not be a suitable match after all.

My Impressions: The audiobook narrators did an excellent job with the voices and the historically appropriate accents. I took off one star for the book because I didn't feel completely invested/connected with the storyline and the extra characters, especially in the middle. I did enjoy the vignettes that mentioned Jane Austen's books and characters. The ending was cute and sweet, and this book would be appropriate for any age reader.

Content Considerations: None. Light kisses only. No profanity. No heavy themes.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson, Zondervan Fiction Audio, and NetGalley for the complementary copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review. My review is my own words and is in no way influenced by the author or publisher.

I love Regency Romance and was very excited to read Sense and Suitability, especially as it is Pepper Basham's debut in this genre and I was very curious. She brings her own warm and sensitive signature to the Regency era. The story is lovingly written, with main characters who quickly grow on you. I particularly liked the fact that the focus is not only on the central love story, but also on the life around it: family, friendships and personal challenges.

Emmeline has long since turned her back on love, especially since Simon Reeves, once her epitome of the perfect gentleman, left her without a word of explanation. But now Simon is back home and in trouble: after inheriting the family title, he is facing ruin. The estate is in ruins, his siblings are doing what they want, and the only hope lies in a wealthy marriage befitting his status, for which, according to society , Emmeline is no longer an option. Nevertheless, she offers him her help, not as a bride, but as a friend. But old feelings are not so easy to shake off...

Emmeline and James are two wonderfully drawn characters who develop credibly over the course of the story, both through external circumstances and through their influence on each other. Their connection is authentic and touching.

The audio book was superbly recorded. Emmeline's narrator fitted her character perfectly with her British accent and her cheerful, friendly voice. James' narrator also conveyed his warm, caring personality very well. Both added depth to the characters and enriched the listening experience.

Another highlight was how the author shows that money alone is not a solution to family or personal problems; values such as solidarity, friendship and responsibility take centre stage.

Towards the end, the plot seemed a little drawn out in places and I would have liked a little more tension in the final conflicts. Nevertheless, the finale was well-rounded and satisfying.

All in all, a successful Regency Romance audiobook with heart, humour and depth. I look forward to more from Pepper Basham in this genre!

The first two chapters of Sense and Suitability move slowly but then Emme and Simon start running into each other and the story gets fun. Simon is absolutely swoon worthy. His devotion to Emme melts my heart. Emme is honorable and kind. There are so many other lovable characters in this book as well (the Aunts! Lottie! Fia!)

Thank you Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for an ARC of this book! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Emmie, an untitled gentlemen's daughter, and Simon, cousin to the Viscount of Ravenscross, fell in love and promised each other they'd be wed despite their differences in station. On the night Simon promised to propose, he didn't show. Leaving Emmie an undetailed note, her left her with a broken heart and to be ridiculed by society. Two years later, Emmie's reputation has recovered and she is being pushed to find a husband. Simon, now the Viscount of Ravenscross due to deaths in the family, is in desperate need of a bride--or namely, a bride with a large dowry. After a few chance encounters, Emmie offers to help Simon find a suitable bride for him and his family. With an even larger difference in stations, unresolved feelings from the past, and secrets of their own, can Emmie and Simon find happily ever after?

I loved this story! As someone who has read a lot of Regency era romances, I found Sense and Suitability to be fresh and stand out. One of the highlights of the story for me was the well-developed and dynamic cast of characters. Even the side characters were distinct and enriched the story, making ever chapter a delight to read. Emmie and Simon are each devoted to their families, and it was fun to see their relationships with their family throughout the book. The conflict between Simon and Emmie was very believable as well, which really makes you feel for them as they navigate the line between true love and duty. Lastly, I loved the dual narration audio. This is my first Pepper Basham novel, and I will definitely be going back to check out her other work. I am also crossing my fingers that we get another novel in this universe, following one of our side characters love story instead. Sense and Suitability is a fast-paced, second chance Regency romance that would be perfect for those looking for a clean, feel-good story with lovely characters. Expected publication is October 14, 2025.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio and Netgalley for the ARC!

Ugh! There's no genre that does pining the way Regency romance does. This couple has such strong feelings but are kept apart by financial circumstances, the longing is truly chef's kiss

I love a good Regency-era story, and this one fit right into those warm memories. This one reminds me of Jane Austen’s biopic meets Season 3 of Bridgerton (but with much less spice). With a nod to Sense and Sensibility, this one is filled with the troubles of duty over love and all of the mess that comes with a title. You will feel all of the emotions as well as a sweet romance with a touch of intrigue. Adorable and enjoyable read!

I really enjoyed the narration with the proper enunciation like the British elite would demand. Great job!

🌸✨ Oh, what a charming little gem! Sense and Suitability is a delightful Regency rom-com that dances straight into your heart 💖 with wit, humor, and just a sprinkle of scandalous charm. Emmeline Lockhart is a heroine you'd want as your best friend—smart, sassy, and fiercely independent, having already made her mark as an author in a world that demands perfection 🌟. Her vow to steer clear of love is tested when the man who once broke her heart—Simon Reeves—needs her help to save his family estate 🏰 and his reputation. The sparks fly as they navigate their undeniable chemistry, all while sharing witty banter and adorable moments with mischievous children and even a frog named Blast 🐸.

Basham’s playful storytelling and charming characters make this a perfect read for fans of Tessa Dare and Eloisa James who adore sweet, low-spice romance with a witty twist. 💕 The humor is lively, the emotions genuine, and the setting so vividly romantic—you'll be transported to a world where social rules are tight but love is even tighter. Emmeline’s fierce independence and Simon’s earnest vulnerability make them a match that’s both messy and magical, proving that sometimes love needs a little rewrite ✍️💘.

Will Emmeline play matchmaker without losing her heart again? Or will love rewrite their stories in a way neither expected? 📖✨ Whether you're swooning over Simon’s sincere apologies or giggling at Blast’s antics, this book is a cozy, feel-good escape that balances charm, wit, and a dash of heart-melting romance. A truly heartwarming, lighthearted journey—perfect for anyone craving a love story as lovely and lively as a garden in full bloom! 🌹💫

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the ARC! And thank you Zondervan for the audio ARC!

Editing to add my audio review since I got both!

🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW 🎧

I was lucky enough to also get the audio of this early. So glad I did cause I was now able to listen to it! Still 4 ⭐️!!! I am a sucker for duel narration so I loved that! Both narrators did a great job and I loved listening to it after reading it!

4 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

I live Peppers writing she never disappoints. I’ve never read a regency romance but I am here for it! I loved the main character Simon and Emme it was such a sweet read.

Pepper Basham just renewed my faith in the Christian romance genre. I was starting to think in order to be a Christian romance the writing had to be boring, robotic and lack any emotion. This was such a fun and sweet little rom-com. The fast pace kept me engaged the duration of the story and the characters were lively and lovable. I loved how the characters leaned on God and prayed throughout the story. It never once came off cheesy like it sometimes can, it fit in perfectly with the story and flowed well. I will definitely be recommending this to all of my Jane Austen and clean romance reader friends.

I highly recommend giving the audiobook try! The narrators did an amazing job with their different voices and made the story that much more upbeat and fun. Perfect for summer!