A Matter of Persuasion

by Theresa Howes

'Achingly romantic with lashings of Gilded Age glamour.' Jessica Bull

'A Matter of Persuasion completely captured my heart! The way it immerses you in the lavish details of the era made me feel like I was living in that time. I couldn’t help but stay up late, lost in the world the author created.' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Loved this beautiful Gilded age novel! The outfits the settings and gorgeous historical content had me reading late into the night!' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lose yourself in this retelling of Persuasion, the ultimate tale of love, loss and sacrifice, re-imagined in the opulent but guarded Gilded Age society.

New York, 1882. Amy Eaton is a bestselling authoress, much to the embarrassment of her family. Proudly ‘old money’, they see her professionalism as an impropriety. Despite their undisguised disdain for her, Amy is bound by a promise she made to her dying mother to look after her two sisters and father.

Eight years have passed since Amy gave up the love of her life, after her mother’s best friend persuaded her not to marry him. But now Wareham is a rich, self-made man in search of a wife.

Doing her best to forget the life she might have had with Wareham, Amy must learn how to navigate her small social circle without letting her true feelings show. As new and unexpected situations arise, will Amy defy expectations and choose her own path?

Praise for Theresa ‘Truly gripping… I loved it.’ Jill Mansell, Sunday Times bestselling author of Promise Me

‘I absolutely loved this… Vivid and heartbreaking.’ Lana Kortchik, USA Today bestselling author of Sisters of War

‘War, passion and tragedy unite in this atmospheric and moving tale.’ S D Sykes, author of the Oswald de Lacy Medieval Murders series

‘A wonderfully immersive, emotional read.’ Annabelle Thorpe, author of The Enemy of Love

‘I stayed up late into the night to finish… A thrilling, exciting story… You might want to have some tissues handy.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘This book will stay with me for a long time. A credit to Theresa Howes for exquisite writing and an evocative storyline.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘It was absolutely compulsive – my heart was in my throat for the brilliant heroine all the way through.’ Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Romance, Fiction, Historical Romance, Audiobook

353 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2025

About the author

Theresa Howes lives in London with her husband and Claude, a larger than average cat. When she isn’t writing or reading, she enjoys seeing how many more plants she can cram into her tiny London garden, walking, and putting the world to rights over a gin and tonic.

Her first two novels, THE SECRETS WE KEEP and THE FRENCH AFFAIR are set in occupied France during WWII. Her third novel, A MATTER OF PERSUASION, is a retelling of Jane Austen’s Persuasion, set in America’s Gilded Age. AN AMERICAN SCANDAL, a reimagining of Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park, will be published in 29 Jan 2026

Reviews

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Persuasion is my favourite Austen and I love the Gilded Age so when I saw this book it was an instant buy for me. It has a lot of four and five star reviews.
Unfortunately it didn't work for me at all. It was easy to pick out the characters for comparison, they were all there. Amy was the heroine of the piece and I did really like her. However, it was the writing that sometimes jarred with me. Nobody walked or ran into a place, they all crashed., dashed or charged. Even at one stage two elderly ladies 'dashed' up to Amy!!! Also the word 'roared' was over used too and in very odd places. It took me out of the story when this happened. The story itself wasn't bad but it felt false in parts and the Gilded Age thing wasn't very apparent which was disappointing.
Still, there are lots of people who loved it and we all like different things.

[Marie Girulat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to @hqstories @netgalley and the author for the #gifted e-book.

In New York during the Gilded Age, a time marked by the Industrial Revolution and the rise of suffragettes, we meet Amy, an accomplished authoress caught in a web of familial selfishness and social expectations. Eight years prior, Amy ended her engagement at the insistence of a family friend to Wareham, as he was deemed unworthy due to his financial standing. Now, with Wareham’s unexpected return, old feelings reignite, leaving both to ponder whether they can rekindle their romance.

This narrative echoes the themes of Jane Austen's Persuasion but stands out as a distinctive retelling. The author masterfully immerses readers in the details of the era, illuminating its societal norms. Amy’s journey to strike a balance between her ambitions and family duties is both relatable and deeply moving. It’s disheartening to witness her family’s lack of support for her literary aspirations. The tension between Amy and Wareham is palpable, electric, filled with longing and unexpressed emotions. Each encounter vibrates with significance, artfully reflecting the complexities of their past and the societal pressures that bind them.

If you cherish richly crafted historical romances and adore Jane Austen, this book is an absolute must-read. Mark your calendars for its release on January 30, 2025!

[A Bookworm Crafts · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this Persuasion retelling set in the Gilded Age of the US, we follow Amy, a famous novelist, as she struggles to take care of her spendthrift family. She is forced to come to term with the choices she has made, when old flame Wareham comes back into her life.

I'm a huge Jane Austen fan and loved how this book incorporated her witty criticism of society. The tropes and general plot of the original are still there, but the characters and their preoccupations have been updated to match the new context.

A recommended read for fans of Jane Austen, Evelyn Waugh, and second-chance romance.

Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great example of Austen being modernised. I loved the story and how Howes recreates the original master (Austen!), using Persuasion as the foundation for this American re-telling.

It is the Gilded Age in America and in New York, Amy is witness to social parties, coming out and the importance of a good match. However, she and her elder sister are considered as too old for marriage, much to the consternation of Marion. Yet, Amy has hidden feelings for Wareham, whom she was once very close to marrying. Listening to advice of others, the engagement was broken off and since then, there has been no other suitor.

Amy is treated appallingly by her family. Considered an embarrassment because she is a writer, her family use Amy for anything and everything. The rudeness towards Amy’s writing was pretty brutal and I thought she was very strong not to snap back at how she is treated. She is unwaveringly loyal to her family. From helping to clear debts to putting her own happiness last, Amy verges on being a doormat to those around her. This threatens her own contentment with life, especially when is appears that old flame Wareham is on the cusp of being engaged again.

Howes presents the importance of wealth, class and reputation through Amy’s family. It is considered so significant and the opportunity to lead to a better quality of life. However, at this time “new money” was emerging through inventions in science and engineering. Wareham represents this and it is one of the driving factors that keeps him and Amy apart.

Not only that, women’s suffrage is addressed in the novel. I have little knowledge of this time of American history and I found it fascinating to see the contrast between those who protested and wanted a voice for women’s rights, versus others who supported the patriarchy. Furthermore, the influence of newspaper reporting becomes evident when the suffrage protests are documented and the lack of transparency is something that we still see in the media today.

If you cherish Jane Austen, you won’t be offended by this sympathetic re-telling of a classic tale. I really enjoyed seeing Amy’s journey through the novel and the different potential suitors that are literally thrown her way without Amy’s voice in the choices. I admired her strength through adversity and how, as a female author, she is making her own way in life in a modern world.

With thanks to HQ and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Victoria Shepherd · Rating 2 out of 5]

This story is as superficial as the age it is set in. A token interest in women’s right to vote isn’t enough to make this story interesting.

[Frankie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 marked up to 4 stars!

A charming and richly textured second chance romance with hints of Jane Austen set in the American Gilded Age!

I do have to be honest here and say that Gilded Age set romances aren't my go-to stories, there is essentially nothing wrong with them, but I have found I can never seem to connect with them as much as I do British Victorian/ Edwardian romances, maybe I am now just too set in my ways, I know what I like and don't tend to venture too far from that but I'm always happy to try a new book and though I didn't love this, I surprised myself that I did enjoy far more then I thought I would.

I have read and enjoyed Teresa Howes writing before which is one of the reasons I chose to read this book,, it's pitched as a Gilded Age retelling of Jane Austen's Persuasion, now I haven't read Persuasion (I've seen the series/film and that's all) but knowing that that story was about I was interested to read how it would be retold in such a different backdrop and I think it worked well, though I am no Jane Austen expert (far from it) I do think that all those who love Austen will enjoy this book.

I won't deny that this story is full of golden age glamour, it's richly descriptive and draws the reader into the age, has it converted me to this specific genre? I don't think so, but I did enjoy it and will read this author's future work I'm afraid I still can't find myself getting behind the Gilded Aged genre as much as others, it has nothing to do with the author of her writing which is flawless,

It's this reader and not the book!

However, I do think this will be an instant success for a different reader, and I can definitely see it on many readers' best books of the year lists in December. I wish I could have loved it more, as it essentially has everything I look for and love about historical romance, but unfortunately, I couldn't—sorry!

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a lot of Jane Austen fan fiction out there, and A Matter of Persuasion by Theresa Howes is absolutely one of the better ones. While sticking to the central themes of the original, transposing the setting to New York in 1882, the so-called Gilded Age, adds a whole new perspective as the characters embrace the preoccupations of the time. Instead of English class snobbery, this is a story of “old money” versus “new”.
Wareham is an engineer and self-made man who was engaged to Amy eight years before, but she was persuaded to reject his proposal, as her mother’s friend did not think him a suitable match, though she has regretted her decision ever since. Amy is now a successful romantic novelist, but her family look down on how she earns a living. What they can’t or won’t see is that without her income they would be in serious financial difficulty.
The industrial revolution, the expansion of the railways and the Suffragettes campaigning for votes for women all combine to make this a volatile period in history where women still have little or no voice. The reimagining of my favourite Jane Austen novel works really well in this new setting. Like Anne Elliot, Amy has grown into a strong and capable woman who knows her own mind, the only sensible one in a family who constantly undermine and take advantage of her. She never stopped loving Wareham, and is devastated when he reappears, seemingly indifferent to her. I really liked this subtle variation on Persuasion, though I’m sure it would be an enjoyable read even if you had never heard of Jane Austen. The characters are well written and the setting is vividly brought to life. A Matter of Persuasion is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to discovering what else she has written. Thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for a digital copy to review.

[Bzz Kolla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and HQ for this eCopy to review

I recently finished reading "A Matter of Persuasion" by Theresa Howes, and I must say, it was a delightful experience. Set in the opulent Gilded Age of New York, the novel is a reimagining of Jane Austen's classic "Persuasion," but with its own unique twists and turns.

The story follows Amy Eaton, a bestselling author who faces disdain from her "old money" family for her professional success. Eight years after being persuaded to give up the love of her life, Wareham, Amy finds herself navigating the complexities of her social circle when he returns as a wealthy, self-made man in search of a wife.

What I loved most about this book was the rich historical detail. Howes does an excellent job of immersing the reader in the lavish settings and societal norms of the time. The descriptions of the outfits, the grand parties, and the intricate social dynamics made me feel like I was right there in 18821.

Amy is very compelling, her struggle between familial duty and personal happiness is portrayed with depth and sensitivity. I found myself rooting for her as she grappled with her feelings for Wareham and the expectations placed upon her by her family. The romance is heartfelt and the tension between Amy and Wareham is palpable,

It's a beautifully written, emotionally resonant novel that fans of historical fiction and classic literature will surely enjoy. If you're looking for a book that combines romance, history, and a touch of drama, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Jane Hunt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Persuasion is a favourite Austen novel, and I enjoyed the Gilded Age series on TV, so I expected to like this retelling of the story set in New York in 1882, and I did. Amy is the overlooked middle daughter of an old-money New York family. A successful author, she has already offended their snobbish sensibilities. Still, it is apparent that Amy is the only member of the family with any common sense, and fortunately for them, Amy loves her family too. As the story progresses, It explores Amy's sacrifice, and she has to reacquaint herself with her lost love, Mr Wareham, an engineer she refused to marry at her family's behest, and discovers she still has romantic feelings. Still, he seems to have forgotten what they once were to each other. The story works well in this nineteenth-century New York setting, and the rigid society and wealth are easy to imagine. The complex characters are believable. Amy travels on a life-changing emotional journey. I like the similarities with the original and the subtle differences, which give it a fresh perspective. The unforgiving society and the misogyny define this story and resonate, as does the tumultuous love story. It's an entertaining and immersive read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

[Julynka · Rating 2 out of 5]

Persuasion is my favourite Jane Austen (eg over Pride & Prejudice) because of its multilayered perspectives and nicer but no less intelligent heroine (Austen’s Anne Elliott is basically the female version of Darcy!). The character-driven plot is really a story of Anne’s personal growth and also a compelling reflection of the mores and complexity of her age/society.

Unfortunately none of this was successfully achieved in this fan fiction. For a successful writer, Amy doesn’t seem to understand people very well, herself included. As someone of independent means, there is even more inconsistency between her choices to continue to be a pushover in her family and supporting the suffragette movement. Her interactions with Wareham read like an awkward rom com. Barring the various descriptions of railroads and mansions, there is also little that captures the frenzied quality of the Gilded Age.

This was entertaining enough for couple of hours but disappointing in the same way as drinking still water when you expected sparkling.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading a 'retelling' has both its ups and downs. Howes wrote in a style that was actually a good read, in that the use of language was good. Not as much about the history of NY in the gilded age as one might have expected, but overall, a nice retelling. The biggest problem was working out the names, who was who, against the original Austen, as she did leave some people out, and the change of names, although close, like Anne to Amy, did sometimes have me going, who's that? I also probably spent too much time picking out the differences, oh - you chose to do that, than replicate that. The changes by the way were fine, though I think the ending 'finale' of the conversation between Amy and 'friend' and Warem's letter were okay, but lacked the wonder of the original, but still. If you love Austen, and Persuasion, you'll be fine with this version. Suitable for teens and adults.

[Alba Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my favourite Jane Austen retelling so far! I am a sucker for any and all Jane Austen inspirations, and will happily read them all.

This was a Persuasion retelling though with some heavy P&P elements. Set during the Gilded Age in NYC, I was dubious that Howes could make the setting work, but she pulled it off.

My only reason for pulling it down to 4 stars is that her message was too pointed at times. When an author's agenda is too on the nose, it disconnects me from the story and holds me back a little as I start questioning whether the author is telling a story to regake a good tale or writing her story to suit a specific agenda. Some readers like that, but I don't- and social commentary I usually prefer more subtle.

Regardless, I had a great time with this book, and recommend to any Austen lovers out there!

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars rounded up. This was definitely a decent reimagining of Persuasion, as the story faithfully follows the original premise of the novel, while being perfectly believable in the Gilded Age context. It was good, but didn't grab me 100% emotionally for a couple reasons. I think it took the author a little while to get into the groove of her characters. At the beginning, the characters felt fairly one dimensional and the reader didn't get much insight into their inner minds. However, by Chapter 9 this had been remedied. Throughout, however, I found the writing to be fairly simplistic, and I had hoped for more polish. I'd recommend it for anyone who wants a new spin on a classic, or for anyone wanting a quick read.

[Vivien Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't usually follow fan fiction and versions of classics but this is a little different. Not set in the modern day or even in England but in old New York at the time of the industrial revolution/ coming of the railways and the emergence of Votes for Women. The story echoes elements of Austen's Persuasion but does not copy the plot. It kept me engrossed and would have been a 5 star read except for two things. Without spoilers all I can say is: how did she end her serialised novel, and what did she write in Wareham's copy of the book? Both were important parts of the story with lots of anticipation but no reveal. Disappointing.

[Izzy Turner-Hicks · Rating 2 out of 5]

Incredibly repetitive - I don’t know if it’s because I listened to this in audiobook format, but I often found myself rolling my eyes at how often Amy wilfully misinterprets a situation or the behaviour of other characters. It’s so frustrating when it’s obvious to the reader what is meant in a given situation. She expects the main love interest to be a mind reader and then is frustrated when he doesn’t react accordingly, deciding that he ‘must hate her.’

There’s a decent story here but the book needed more strict editing.

[Carmen Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable read

If you are looking for pleasant reading without stress or the feel of a non stop roller coaster, I recommend this book. I found it incredible how Amy was able to not hit back when she was constantly being punched. Taking the high road does have it's perks. Low key but not boring.

[Amanda Rowley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun retelling that stayed true to the original story

[Jo · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25⭐

[Lynn Carleton · Rating 4 out of 5]

very enjoyable.

Quite predictable but a very enjoyable read . Would recommend for an easy read with truth about prejudice. Would like a follow up about Eleanor’s destiny

[Denise MF · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good tribute to Jane Austen set in the U S Gilded age. Very enjoyable listening to this today.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing slow burn! Loved all the settings and well developed characters.

[Helen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audiobook.

[Laura Lloyd (Hoggard) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy reading.