Publishers Weekly
05/22/2023
Basham (Authentically Izzy) spins a heartwarming tale of second chances with a positive-thinking heroine at its center. American Penelope Edgewood is fresh out of college when she begins a three-month marketing internship at Darling House, the oldest theater on the small island of Skymar (think: Scottish isles). She’s been tasked with brainstorming marketing ideas to help revive the struggling business and keep its proprietors, the Gray family, from having to sell. Once in Skymar, Penelope meets straitlaced businessman Matt Gray, whom she nicknames Grumpy Gray, and his younger brother Alec. The family has been emotionally shattered by the deaths of the brothers’ mother and grandmother within the past five years, and Matt’s still recovering after his ex-wife left him a single father two years back. Matt and Penelope initially clash, but by harnessing her faith and upbeat attitude, she helps him navigate his grief and rediscover his love for dancing. An unlikely relationship blossoms between the two as they work together to save the theater. While Penelope’s relentless optimism sometimes reads as unrealistic, readers will be cheered by Basham’s quirky, likable characters and their ability to find humor and hope amid life’s trials. It’s a wholesome and winning happily-ever-after. (Aug.)
USA TODAY bestselling author Sheila Roberts
'What do you get when you combine a lovable heroine with characters who have mastered the art of witty banter? A charming read. And that is what POSITIVELY, PENELOPE is.'
Becca Kinzer
'Like the character Penelope herself, this entire book radiates sunshine and magic. The banter between Penelope and her siblings kept me smiling. The theatrical references kept me humming and tapping my toes. And the overall joy that Pepper Basham exudes with her unique writing style and voice kept me engaged in a story I never wanted to leave. Simply put, this book is supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.'
New York Times bestselling author of THE WEDDING D Rachel Hauck
'Basham is a rising star. POSITIVELY, PENELOPE is humorous and touching, and everything you want in the perfect summer read. Don't miss this one.'
award-winning author of more than 35 novels includ Cara Putman
'This book is a positive delight from the first line to the last. I adored Penelope in Izzy's book and she screamed for her own book, so I couldn't wait to dive into the pages of this novel. On my goodness, it was a true, laugh-out-loud joy to read this book. The story was filled with twists and hiccups, but there was such delight and fun. And fairy tales. And princesses. And Julie Andrews. Gene Kelly. All the things I adore. In one place. And such fun. And the kissing. Pepper does enjoy writing kissing books. I highly recommend this sweet, fun, romantic romp of a book. It was wonderful!'
Victoria Lynn
'You won't want to put this book down! Pepper has a way with creating characters that are disarming and charismatic in all of the best ways, while still reflecting our inner-selves. Her stories are charming, witty, and I've never laughed so much while reading! You'll walk away with more joy than you came with and a heart full of assurance and encouragement over the power of our Heavenly Father's heart for your love story.'
