Pride and Practicality By: Pepper Basham

 

"Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick"

 Matthew 9:12b

Fans of Courtney Walsh, Becca Kinzer, and Melissa Ferguson will adore Pepper Basham.  In her newest novel, scheduled to release in November of this year, Basham gives a modern day re-telling of Jane Austen's beloved Pride and Prejudiced.  This novel is filled with Basham's signature wit, deep theological references sprinkled throughout,  strong characters that evolve and change (showing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, and as always glimpses into other beloved authors and literature works throughout.  If you love regency era romance novels,  characters that touch your heart and soul, and a bit of humor to make you laugh out loud,  this is a must read (perfect for your Christmas wish list or just a book to purchase to curl up by the fire and be transported back in time to regency England).

In this novel, Basham keeps alive beloved characters from her previous novel Sense and Suitablity.  In Pride and Practicality readers are introduced to Arianna Reeves, the long-lost sister of Simon Reeves.  We get to spend some time with his beloved bride Emme, his adorable little sister,  and his other siblings.  Most importantly we get to read the story of Emme's cousin Thomas Bridges.  

Our story starts out with Arianna and Thomas meeting in the most unlikely of situations.  After Thomas helps Arianna, they meet again as Thomas is the new rector or the parish Arianna's family attends.  Arianna has returned home admist much personal scandal, as her family is trying to re-build themselves from the scandal of her father and uncle.  Thomas, himself, is trying to overcome the scandal of their parrish from the previous rector.  Arianna, also carries prejudices against members of the cloth from one very painful experience.  Not only does Thomas have to contend and overcome these prejudices, but the people of his parish are reluctant to welcome Arianna back because she had ran off over a year ago and only just recently has returned.  

Basham does a beautiful job of bringing these two strong and intelligent characters together while weaving a beautiful story of grace and redemption.  They both have a strong desire to help children and those less fortunate (even though their ideas on going about said work differ).  Basham expertly and with grace sprinkles deep theological truth throughout her book, causing readers to pause and think.  I know,  I was reminded of several teachings in scripture throughout.  Their desire to help the poor and orphans and not look down on them reminds me of the teaching of the James the brother in James 2:1-4.  Their desire is to truly be the hands and feet of Jesus, showing compassion and grace to those less fortunate and hopefully offering them a better life.  It also reminds me of the teaching of Jesus, when he said suffer the little children to come unto me.  Also to quote Thomas Bridges in the book, "Sometimes doing what is right matters more than doing what is safe."  We are not promised safety and approval of everyone in doing right and following the example of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  As in the case of Arianna and Thomas, we are reminded that our Sovereign Heavenly Father works all things for his good and for his glory.  

So cozy up in your favorite fleece blanket, with some hot English tea and maybe a scone or two.  Get swept away to regency England and fall in love with Basham's lovely characters.  I would also recommend a fall candle from bath and body works, my favorite just happens to be Leaves.  Simba loved this book and loved the funny and humorous antics of Fia's pet squirrel and enthusiastically gives this book four paws.  I want to give a special thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson publishing for the ARC to read and review.  Happy Reading!!