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Sense and Suitability

A sweet Regency, enemies-to-lovers rom-com

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Pub Date Oct 14 2025 | Archive Date Nov 14 2025

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Description

In this clean Regency rom-com, 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? Perfect for fans of Tessa Dare and Eloisa James looking for a low-spice, witty Regency romance.

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?

Filled with lively banter, adorable children, a frog named Blast, and swoony kisses, Sense and Suitability is the clean Regency romance you've been looking for. Basham brings her signature humor to the Regency era where social strictures keep the tension tight but the stakes low in this second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance.

In this clean Regency rom-com, 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?...


Available Editions

EDITION Other Format
ISBN 9780840717061
PRICE $17.99 (USD)
PAGES 368

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Average rating from 36 members


Featured Reviews

A wonderful read!
This novel drew me in from the very first page and kept me hooked until the end. The characters were vibrant and relatable, the writing was engaging, and the story had just the right balance of heart and humor. Highly recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

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This was an incredibly delightful read. A Regency romance that was exactly what I needed, sweet and funny and a little bit chaotic.

Emmeline and Simon met by chance, became friends and fell in love. But on the night they were to be engaged, he didn't show, just his note and no explanations. Two years later, he's back, now a Viscount of Ravenscross, after a sudden passing of both his cousin and his father. He was left with a title, debts, an estate in ruins and younger siblings in his care. His only hope, to marry someone with money. Emmie, seeing the position that he is in now, offers her help with finding him a suitable bride. But will they be able to be only friends or will their feelings just make everything even more complicated. And with Emmie carrying a secret that might tear them both apart, will they be able to find their happily ever after.

I loved this story so much. Emmie was such an amazing character, witty and so incredibly kind. I adored her. And Simon really redeemed himself. I loved how he was with his sibling and the way he loved Emmie.
His sibling were wonderful, Fia with her adorableness, Lottie with her fierceness, and Will with his quiet but insightful presence. They were such a great addition to the story.
So were Ben and Aster and Thomas. I would love to read their stories too.
Also, I have to say Aunt Bean's lessons were hilarious, I was laughing so hard. And Aunt Agatha did grow on me at the end. And of course, Blast-It-All deserves a special mention.

This was a story full of swoony moments, chance encounters, funny and witty exchanges and mischief. Full of heart and characters that made it special.
This was my first novel by this author, but I will definitely read more. I really enjoyed her writing.

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I absolutely adored this novel for the most part. I really loved Simon and Emme. They were so fun and cute together.
Basham did a great job with these two even though some of it was a little repetitive I still found it an enjoyable and a funny read. A delightful novel that makes reading fun once again. This one made my day.
I really hated to say goodbye to these wonderful characters that I felt like had become family.
I finished this story in one evening because it was so good. I even found myself giggling in some places.
Emme just has this charismatic energy that made me love her instantly. Even though she did go overboard at certain times.
In certain ways she reminds me of myself which was why I was able to connect with her lol.
5 stars for a job well done in keeping my attention all the way through. I love this author so I knew I had to have this book. I wasn't disappointed at all!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

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Sense and Suitability is a delightful Regency romance filled with humor, heart, and unforgettable characters. Emmeline and Simon's second-chance love story is both swoon-worthy and filled with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, especially with their quirky side characters like Aunt Bean and the lovable frog, Blast.

I absolutely adored Emme, she’s witty, kind, and relatable, while Simon's redemption arc is perfectly done. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the tension between their growing feelings and the complicated situations they find themselves in made for such a captivating read. The dynamics, the mischief, and the heartfelt moments kept me hooked from start to finish.

Pepper Basham’s writing is as charming as always, blending sweet romance with humor and just the right touch of emotional depth. If you love Regency romances with strong characters, witty dialogue, and a swoony, slow-burn romance, this is a must-read!

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I absolutely loved Pepper Basham’s regency novel, Sense and Suitability! This is her first regency, and it’s perfect, with humor, and love, and social balls, and gossip and reputations and the amazing hero and heroine. All of this and more comes to you in a very easy to read, clean story that is full of memorable characters, and leads you in various emotions, in a good way! I’m hoping for a sequel! Wonderful book! I received an ARC from NetGalley, but this review is my own true opinion.

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I haven’t read historical romance in such a long time, but lately I found myself craving romantic stories — and stumbling upon Sense and Suitability was such a wonderful surprise. Pepper Basham delivers a charming and witty homage to Jane Austen, blending Regency romance with a fresh, modern sensibility in a way that feels cozy, uplifting, and full of heart.

This is a short novel where the plot moves quickly, keeping you engaged from start to finish. I truly loved our heroine, Emme, and her “secret,” which made the story even richer. Her passion is something she’s willing to fight for, and that determination gave her character a special spark. Simon, our hero, did frustrate me at times with the way he acted toward Emme, but thankfully his character arc developed nicely by the end, making his journey satisfying to watch unfold.

Basham also shines in creating secondary characters who all have weight, purpose, and distinct personalities. Their roles enrich the story and deepen the world around Emme and Simon. I especially found myself wanting to know more about Arianne — and I sincerely hope that if there’s a sequel or companion novel, we’ll get to follow her story next.

My only small complaint is that I was hoping for the scene of the first proposal to be expanded — either given a longer chapter or even a chapter of its own. It felt like a moment that deserved just a bit more space to breathe. That said, everything else was so enjoyable and heartwarming to read.

With sweet, faith-filled themes of family, forgiveness, and self-discovery, Sense and Suitability offers a delightful balance of heart, humor, and historical flair. Perfect for fans of Austen retellings, clean historical romance, and feel-good love stories with thoughtful characters, this novel is a lovely addition to your TBR.

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SENSE AND SUITABILITY by PEPPER BASHAM is a deliciously romantic Regency novel which takes place in England in the height of the St Groves season. Simon Reeves, nephew to the Viscount of Ravenscross, is about to propose to Emmeline Lockhart, the love of his life, when the news of his father’s and cousin’s deaths makes it necessary to marry for moey to save his family from ruin……..
With a broken heart, Emme goes from hurt and humiliation, to wanting to help save Simon and his family from ruin, even going so far as to try and find him a suitable bride. His delightful younger siblings have a great deal to do with her wanting to see his family restored……..
Emme is a published author at a time when women authors are seen to be scandalous creatures. She is supported in this by her clergyman cousin, Thomas Bridges. A great admirer of the author of Sense and Sensibility, she decides to write a novel that is more true to life than the gothic novels she wrote before. I like the way Simon and Emme’s story is compared to that of the characters in the Jane Austen novel……
The story is full of ups and downs, with witty dialogue and some hilarious moments, told against the rigid rules of nineteenth century society.
This is amost enjoyable read and one I highly recommend.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

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After having her heart shattered by Simon Reeves, whom she believed to be her perfect match, Emmeline has endured two unsuccessful social seasons. As the daughter of a respected country gentleman, Emme enjoys a certain status, but she does not come from wealth, and she harbors a significant and scandalous secret: she is a published author. Simon, facing unexpected financial challenges, must seek a wife with a substantial dowry.
Unlike other young women, Emme feels no pressing need for a husband due to her success as a writer, especially since her heart belongs to Simon. Nevertheless, she vows to help him find his ideal match—a woman who can provide the financial stability he desperately needs. With both of his parents deceased, Emme is aware that aiding Simon in this quest is no simple task. He has the added responsibility of caring for three spirited younger siblings, and their estate is in disrepair, compounded by a family fortune that has been squandered away through gambling.
Amidst all this, there is undeniable chemistry between Simon and Emme. However, she is resolute in her determination to remain just a friend while assisting him in his search for the perfect bride. This story is enriched by intriguing characters and captivating situations. I found until the last page was turned, it was difficult to put down.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.

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"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." This review was possible thanks to Netgalley.

Can I call this Bridgeton on wheels? Sure felt like it. I loved the dialougue. I just finished another book that had cringe worthy dialogue and this was a great book to cure me! I love the characters as well, their dynamic throughout the story was well written and kept me engage. I also got frustrated at times, but not in a bad way, it's part of the plot 🤣 If you like a book with swoon worthy moments this is it.

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After reading Some like it Scot, i immediately knew Pepper Basham was gonna be an auto-buy author for me.
And this book only makes me more sure of that.
When I tell you I had the time of my life reading Sense and Suitability!
Enemies to lovers with incredible banter.
Perfect book for anyone looking to read a clean feel-good romance book.

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Thanks NetGalley for this ARC !!

This was such a cozy, romantic comedy ! It’s set in the regency era and gives Jane Austen vibes.

Low spice, banter, second chance romance, and lovable characters!!

If you loved the Bridgerton series give this book a try !! The writing was unique and made you feel like you were in that era with Emme our MC.

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What a fun regency romance read with humor throughout. I don't read a lot of regency but this one was a lovely ready.

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

It got my attention immediately with the prologue and made me want to read more. It's a story of a lovely, fun, young lady growing up where one is expected to marry at a certain age. She is not so very inclined as she wants love, not money. Meet the rogue and our story grows. but all is not as it seems!

There are the interfering family members, the nasty bad person and just society itself. There are is a lot of push-pull going on and it's much like an obstacle course.

I truly loved the view on women authors and how women are treated in the age.

This is a story to love and cheer for!

Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for allowing me to read this advanced copy.

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This book delighted me from page one to the very last. It’s a nod to Sense and Sensibility with a delightful romance. The heroine is swilling to sacrifice her future for the benefit of the hero, while he is sinking under the weight of responsibility. Between a failing estate, the needs of his siblings, and the obligations to satisfy his aunt, he is struggling to find a path forward. The book is filled with sweet moments and a touching romance. I highly recommend this book to those who love the regency time period with romance and heart.

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Oh, what can I say?! This book has it all: the longing, the yearning, the struggles, the rules and expectations of society, the friendships, the fun - with great characters, great chemistry, true romance and true love! The writing is just superb. All of the characters are beautifully delineated as real people with real emotions and struggles. And they really draw you in. You could just feel the emotions, the feels, the craving of affection, the impossibility of their love but oh, their love is real and heartfelt!
The secondary characters were a perfect addition to the story. Emme’s cousin Thomas was clever, so sweet, loyal and so supportive of Emme. I loved him being reasonable and kindly redirecting when his mother spouted one of her opinions. All of the siblings were real and such beautiful people: funny Aster, cutie Fia with her frog Blast, feisty Lottie and even shy William. The housekeeper Mrs. Patterson. Her father. You can only fall in love with all of them and wanting to hug them and care for them - so you can see why Emme did.
A special mention to the two aunts in the book: Emme’s aunt Bean and Simon’s aunt Agatha were so very different but such good additions to the story. Aunt Bean’s lessons on how to “catch” a husband were just as hilarious as ridiculous. And I felt for aunt Agatha who clearly loved her family very much and did what she could to provide aid and structure the way she saw fit.
Simon was so strong, but so burdened with the responsibilities and struggles that came with inheriting the title, the estate and his younger orphaned siblings. Emme has such a big heart, was so loyal, compassionate and loving to want to help Simon and his family… This truly is a heartfelt story, so beautiful!
I loved the comparisons to ‘Sense and Sensibility’ but how clever of the author to not make it in exactly a similar story. I liked that Emme was an author, too.
The book pulls at your heartstrings, makes you sigh, smile and feel for the characters involved, but also has a lot of humor and makes you laugh: The scene with William and Lottie discussing whether Simon was daft is hilarious, as are the scenes with Fia (and her frog!), the lectures by aunt Bean - I laughed and loved it!
Aster said: <i> Your stories reveal the strength of the human spirit, the beauty of a generous heart, and the persistence of faithful love.</i> The same is true of this story. I highly and wholeheartedly recommend this book. Go buy it and enjoy it, you won’t regret it!
Thank you Dragonblade Publishing, Netgalley and author for providing an advanced copy of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed it; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

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The incredible author, who writes beautifully in so many genres, has penned her first Regency historical romance with a nod to Jane Austen and I loved it completely! Janeites will adore it too with its compelling characters drawn with wit and insight. Highly recommended!

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This is a fantastic regency novel full of Jane Austin inspired wit and swooning. I look forward to it being on my shelf one day. I hope that I get to read more of these characters one day, a few stories that I'm dying to find out! Thankyou for allowing me to be an ARC reader. It was just delightful.

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