Keena Richins

After reading Persuading Him, I was a little apprehensive about reading Persuading Her, but I was pleasantly surprised. This book seemed to have a better flow, and since I had read Anna's side of the story, I already knew what was coming, and anticipated to hear Rick's side of the story. Hearing both sides gives you the whole picture, which made reading this book a breeze, and an enjoyable read.

Hearing Rick describe seeing Anna for the first time was beautifully written, and I knew from the first few pages that I was going to enjoy hearing Rick's side of certain events. What I adored about Rick's story was getting to know his sister and brother-in-law Sophy and Al better. They are definitely the brightest star in Rick's story and by far my favorite characters.

I really am pleased with Persuading Her and anticipate what modern classic Keena Richins decides to twist next.… (más)

When I sat down to write this review, I was torn between what I loved and what frustrated me about Persuading Him. I did love the heroine, Anna. Everyone needs an Anna in their life, the woman who truly has a heart of gold, fiercely loyal, and would do anything for her friends and family. What made me cringe throughout the book was how Anna was treated by her family and how she took the abuse without fighting back. I wanted to scream into the pages for her to speak up, fight back, and not be in her head so much, which is another one of the complaints I had with this narrative. It made the book feel a lot more drawn out than I thought it should've been.

The plus of this book having so many details was the incredible character development, leaving the reader with no questions about any of the characters points of view or the motives behind their actions. Being a lover of the piano myself, I appreciated how the ivory keys brought Anna and her ex-boyfriend Rick together, and I loved the imagery of the scenery throughout the book.

As I read, I was craving to know Rick's side of the story, which is why I have already started reading Persuading Her, so I can finally hear his side of the story.

Despite my few complaints about Persuading Him, I enjoyed this re-telling of Jane Austen's Persuasion, and would recommend this book, and hope that in the continuation I will hear more of Anna's voice and fight for herself and her happiness.… (más)

Perhaps it is the freedom the author has to explore new aspects of a beloved story or maybe the new point of view, but whatever it is, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Keena Richins’ Persuading Her.

In this book, readers get to climb inside Rick Wentworth’s head and feel what he’s feeling, see his heart. A great addition to this tale is more insight into Sophy (Rick’s sister) and her husband’s relationship. These two live relationship goals, plus Sophy gives some good advice when it’s most needed.

As Rick comes to realize his pride and anger at his past rejection just might cost him the only woman he’s never loved, readers get a fresh perspective in this modern-day Persuasion retelling from the hero’s side of things.

And with a few more Austen names peppered into the pages, I’m guessing there will be more Jane Austen fun coming from Richins in the future.

I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.… (más)

My absolute favorite Jane Austen book is Persuasion. There’s just something about a love that lasts through years of separation. So, of course, was thrilled to read this modern-day retelling.

Persuading Him follows the original well. Maybe a little too well because I was over Anne’s whiny younger sister Mary well before the book shifted out of that setting. Yes, Mary is the same way in Austen’s version—selfish and attention-seeking. But for some reason, it was more annoying in Keena Richins’ version.

Once Anne moved on from visiting her sister and carrying for her nephews, things got much better. Now Anne has more pressing issues to focus on and is beginning to stand up for herself. I would have loved to read more interaction between Rick and Anne (but again, Richins stays true to Austen in the interactions of the two main characters).

Not to worry, though, Richins has also written Persuading Her which is the same story from Rick’s perspective. Since I’ve always wondered what went on in Wentworth’s head, I will definitely be delving into this one soon.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.… (más)