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Second Impressions
He likes streamline. She prefers embellishments. His forte is business. Hers is atmosphere. Will they realize each has what the other needs most to create the perfect romance with a touch of Jane Austen flair?
When a country girl travels to Bath, England to visit Jane Austen country, will a serious businessman ruin her regency-dream?
When a country girl travels to Bath, England to visit Jane Austen country, will a serious businessman ruin her regency-dream?
129 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2017
64 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
Pepper Basham
41 books2,908 followersPepper D Basham has been telling tales ever since she was a little girl. When her grandmother called her a “writer” at the age of ten, Pepper took it as gospel and has enjoyed various types of writing styles ever since. A native of the Blue Ridge Mountains, mom of five, speech-language pathologist, and lover of chocolate, Pepper enjoys sprinkling her native Appalachian culture into her fiction wherever she can. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of the New River Valley in Virginia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
April 19, 2020
Cute novella. English Literature Doctorate, Jane Austen fan and small town widow meets arrogant wealthy businessman in Bath, England. I found it unrealistic that two strangers would share a hotel room. Other than that, enjoyable romantic novella. The ending was definitely swoon worthy.
March 9, 2019
Part of the Love at First Laugh collection
October 9, 2017
This is Jane Austen meets rom-com in a modern world. With all the wit and heart of an Austen story, Nora and Ethan are thrown together with a little bit of matchmaking and a lot of personality.
One thing I love about Pepper’s stories is that her characters have a deep sense of normalcy. It shines through in the little habits and comments, like the simplicity of a dream or talking over tea with hand gestures and a butter knife. This authenticity makes them all the more relatable and down-to-earth as you journey with them through a story.
The references and clever parallels to Austen characters will bring a smile to any Austenite’s face. The humor and comedic situations had me giggling more than once — especially where Ethan and Regency attire was concerned. Beneath the lighter side of the characters, though, is a story of heart. Of realizing dreams might just be in reach, of having the faith to believe in them.
Nora and Ethan will work their way into your heart in this little novella. If you’ve never read a Pepper Basham novel (why not!?), this is a perfect place to start to glimpse her style and storytelling. And, if you love all things Austen, this book will have you swooning and wanting to dance a cotillion!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the complimentary review copy of this collection. This is my honest review.
One thing I love about Pepper’s stories is that her characters have a deep sense of normalcy. It shines through in the little habits and comments, like the simplicity of a dream or talking over tea with hand gestures and a butter knife. This authenticity makes them all the more relatable and down-to-earth as you journey with them through a story.
The references and clever parallels to Austen characters will bring a smile to any Austenite’s face. The humor and comedic situations had me giggling more than once — especially where Ethan and Regency attire was concerned. Beneath the lighter side of the characters, though, is a story of heart. Of realizing dreams might just be in reach, of having the faith to believe in them.
Nora and Ethan will work their way into your heart in this little novella. If you’ve never read a Pepper Basham novel (why not!?), this is a perfect place to start to glimpse her style and storytelling. And, if you love all things Austen, this book will have you swooning and wanting to dance a cotillion!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the complimentary review copy of this collection. This is my honest review.
January 27, 2019
Raaaaats!!! This was so, so cute, and I really wanted to finish it, but I can't do an unmarried guy and girl sleeping in the same bed, even with a wall of pillows between them. And even if the hotel double-booking isn't their fault. Sorry, I can appreciate having to work around an awkward situation, but that's a line I can't cross.
May 16, 2019
This was an enjoyable novella about a wealthy young man looking for his place in his family's hotel chain and a young woman who loves all things Jane Austen. Both have ended up in Bath, England for different reasons. Ethan to check out a possible new hotel and Nora to enjoy her birthday present of attending a Jane Austen Festival. When they both get assigned to the same room due to a mix-up fun begins. It is filled with lots of laughter, funny situations, and sweet romance. Basham's foray into romantic comedy filled with numerous touches of Jane Austen is definitely a success, and I would love to see a sequel to this book with more unique hotel development by Nora and Ethan.
October 4, 2017
I loved this novella! In signature Pepper Basham style, the characters hooked me with their quirkiness, faith, and humor.
April 2, 2019
Contemporary romance
Sweet, chaste, light and airy, fast read.
Nora, a young widow with a matchmaking mama, meet the hotel mogul Ethan as there had been a mix up with the reservations at the Inn in Bath.
A lot of references to Jane Austen and her work, did not give this story an austenesque flare.
Predictable and naive.
Sweet, chaste, light and airy, fast read.
Nora, a young widow with a matchmaking mama, meet the hotel mogul Ethan as there had been a mix up with the reservations at the Inn in Bath.
A lot of references to Jane Austen and her work, did not give this story an austenesque flare.
Predictable and naive.
March 13, 2025
Why on earth it took me so long to read this one, I have no idea. I mean, it's a Pepper Basham book! AND it mentions Jane Austen, a LOT. Perfect combo for this Austen (and Basham) loving girl! :D To say that I loved all the Austen references would be putting it very mildly. Yet, it's not just Jane, it's actually Nora and Ethan who grabbed my heart. I wasn't sure what to make of the two of them when they first meet, but (as the title suggests) second impressions are worth discovering! These two are super adorable together, once they get beyond their initial acquaintance. Full of heart and Jane Austen and lots of laughter, this one is a wonderful addition to any bookshelf (be it physical or digital!).
April 20, 2019
What a fun, romantic novella! I actually read Jane by the Book before this one and realized that Nora and Ethan must have their own story, so I checked around and discovered their happily ever after occurs in this one. I enjoyed this novella very much and found these main characters to be extremely likable and definitely made for each other. The author also made me feel like I was once again experiencing the city of Bath, just as I felt in Jane by the Book. Very enjoyable!
(4.5 stars)
(4.5 stars)
November 6, 2017
When a country girl travels to Bath, England to visit Jane Austen country, will a serious businessman ruin her regency-dream?
I read this as part of a collection of novellas and absolutely loved it! Pepper Basham has a way of just reaching out and grabbing her readers and drawing them right into the scenes of her stories! Loved it and it is destined for a reread.
I read this as part of a collection of novellas and absolutely loved it! Pepper Basham has a way of just reaching out and grabbing her readers and drawing them right into the scenes of her stories! Loved it and it is destined for a reread.
December 28, 2017
Flirty fun for folks who love the Blue Ridge Mountains, England, and Jane Austen! Heartwarming AND hilarious!
November 30, 2021
3.5 stars
So cute and sweet. Makes me want to go and just reread all the Jane Austen books <3
So cute and sweet. Makes me want to go and just reread all the Jane Austen books <3
January 31, 2020
Lovely story with a silly beginning
Double-booking a room and having to share? Maybe it is silly but even with that begging I have enjoyed this story.
Double-booking a room and having to share? Maybe it is silly but even with that begging I have enjoyed this story.
October 9, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this super fun story from Pepper Basham. Come along for a journey from the Blue Ridge Mountains to Bath, England. In this delightful story you’ll fall in love with the dynamic characters Nora (a Jane Austen fan) and Ethan Keller. This fun story will have you laughing out loud and swooning with Pepper's signature flair. A romantic comedy that should be made into a Hallmark movie and one that you are sure to not forget.
October 8, 2019
Sharp and pithy, this sweet novella is packed with Basham's trademark sass and wit. And all the scrumptious descriptions put my senses on high alert -- from Nora's Appalachian hometown setting to Regency England. Be still my heart! I want to live in either fictional world. And then there's the way this author sets up a comedic scene! She doesn't miss a beat. From outrageous to sweetly tender to toe-curling sizzle all in a flash. Sheer brilliance.
May 25, 2018
I really enjoyed this novella, Pepper Basham’s first foray into the contemporary romantic comedy genre. Her characters are endearing, quirky, and realistic, flawed but having a good heart. Through misunderstandings and even manipulations, the characters learn to love and trust in a condensed time period.
This fun novella pleasantly reminded me of the movie Austenland, and not a little of my own Austenesque daydreams of a trip across the pond to follow in Jane’s footsteps. For an Austen fan who enjoys unique ways to revisit her favorite novels, this story will prove excellent beach reading or stay-inside-because-it’s-too-hot reading. Basham’s humor and spunk are well displayed and enjoyable in this shorter work.
I received a review copy of this book from the author but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
This fun novella pleasantly reminded me of the movie Austenland, and not a little of my own Austenesque daydreams of a trip across the pond to follow in Jane’s footsteps. For an Austen fan who enjoys unique ways to revisit her favorite novels, this story will prove excellent beach reading or stay-inside-because-it’s-too-hot reading. Basham’s humor and spunk are well displayed and enjoyable in this shorter work.
I received a review copy of this book from the author but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
November 4, 2017
I just read it for the second time and absolutely adored it! I first read this novella as part of the Love at First Laugh collection.
I loved the fact that both Nora and Ethan were long-suffering victims of matchmaking attempts and how they both jumped to the wrong conclusion at their first meeting. This story is sure to bring a smile to any Austenites and Anglophiles out there.
A real attraction and respect develops between the two, through conversation and spending time together. Nora is "super glad to be a twenty-first-century gal" because Ethan kissed her "like she imagined Mr. Darcy would."
Ms. Basham writes the best swoon-worthy, legs turning to jello, kissing scenes, never taking things too far.
This is a fun, romantic comedy, complete with a villain, book and an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.
I loved the fact that both Nora and Ethan were long-suffering victims of matchmaking attempts and how they both jumped to the wrong conclusion at their first meeting. This story is sure to bring a smile to any Austenites and Anglophiles out there.
A real attraction and respect develops between the two, through conversation and spending time together. Nora is "super glad to be a twenty-first-century gal" because Ethan kissed her "like she imagined Mr. Darcy would."
Ms. Basham writes the best swoon-worthy, legs turning to jello, kissing scenes, never taking things too far.
This is a fun, romantic comedy, complete with a villain, book and an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.
October 22, 2017
A fun, novella read, and in typical Basham style I found the characters drew me in with their charisma and quirkiness from the start. As a nod toward Jane Austen, there's plenty woven throughout this narrative to warm the heart of this Austen fan. The whimsy of Bath makes a wonderful backdrop, and the leads portray just enough echoes of Lizzie and Darcy, while remaining characters in their own right. Also plenty of spark to entertain the romanctic side. (I'm learning that Basham knows how to write really good kissing scenes!)
July 1, 2019
Okay, Okay, Okay
This novel was okay, not the best that I have read but definitely not the worst. I enjoyed this book for the majority of the storyline but towards the end I felt it was too drawn out. I wish they could have wrapped it up a little sooner, I feel like it would have worked out better.
This novel was okay, not the best that I have read but definitely not the worst. I enjoyed this book for the majority of the storyline but towards the end I felt it was too drawn out. I wish they could have wrapped it up a little sooner, I feel like it would have worked out better.
September 27, 2017
"He opened his mouth, but nothing came out. Best thing she'd heard in the past two minutes." - Second Impressions by Pepper Basham
This collection of romantic adventures begins with the story of Nora Simeon, whose family sends her to Bath, England for a Jane Austen Festival vacation. Arriving full of jet lag, she discovers that her room in the Elizabeth Elliott Inn has been double-booked, with none other than the new owner of the vintage establishment, Ethan Keller. And so it begins!
" . . . nothing in his wildest imaginations prepared him for the grip of sweet connection he felt for a homicidal bonnet-wearing beauty" . . . . . . enjoy watching the Blue Ridge Mountains collide with a tailored suit from Charlotte, North Carolina amidst this enchanting little story that reads more like a full length novel. Sometime second impressions are the very best!
This collection of romantic adventures begins with the story of Nora Simeon, whose family sends her to Bath, England for a Jane Austen Festival vacation. Arriving full of jet lag, she discovers that her room in the Elizabeth Elliott Inn has been double-booked, with none other than the new owner of the vintage establishment, Ethan Keller. And so it begins!
" . . . nothing in his wildest imaginations prepared him for the grip of sweet connection he felt for a homicidal bonnet-wearing beauty" . . . . . . enjoy watching the Blue Ridge Mountains collide with a tailored suit from Charlotte, North Carolina amidst this enchanting little story that reads more like a full length novel. Sometime second impressions are the very best!
January 28, 2023
Novella Writing 101
Now, THAT, ladies and gentlemen, is how you write a novella!! Ohhhhhh, I only wish there was an epilogue! What an interesting premise, delightful characters, and absorbing setting *sighs*
For someone who never has been able to get through an actual Austen or Brontë novel, I sure have read a lot of their fan fiction 🤣
Now, THAT, ladies and gentlemen, is how you write a novella!! Ohhhhhh, I only wish there was an epilogue! What an interesting premise, delightful characters, and absorbing setting *sighs*
For someone who never has been able to get through an actual Austen or Brontë novel, I sure have read a lot of their fan fiction 🤣
October 15, 2017
This was a fun, quick read! You can feel the Austen-ness in the air as Nora Simeon embarks on her dream birthday vacation. But her enthusiasm instantly clashes with the cynicism of hotel mogul Ethan Keller.
A sweet romance set in Bath, England and filled with all things Austen!
A sweet romance set in Bath, England and filled with all things Austen!
September 27, 2017
Move over Jane Austen! Nora Simeon has a killer bonnet, winsome smile, and enough country charm to win over the very structured and uptight Ethan Keller. This contemporary novella is a FUN read, with lots of regency style, good humor, and sweet romance! (I purchased this in the Love at First Laugh book bundle.)
June 20, 2020
Second Impressions was the first thing I have ever read by Pepper Basham and definitely will not be the last. I have been wanting to read her books for quite some time because she lives in the same state as I do. It was recommended to me by some other readers to start with this one and I am glad I did.
I enjoyed journeying to Bath, England in this novella since no one is doing much traveling these days. I enjoyed living vicariously through Nora's adventures through Jane Austen country. Through a mix-up of sorts, Nora ends up in the same room as Ethan since the inn was completely booked.
This was a quick, fun, read with witty dialogue and great chemistry between Nora and Ethan.
I enjoyed journeying to Bath, England in this novella since no one is doing much traveling these days. I enjoyed living vicariously through Nora's adventures through Jane Austen country. Through a mix-up of sorts, Nora ends up in the same room as Ethan since the inn was completely booked.
This was a quick, fun, read with witty dialogue and great chemistry between Nora and Ethan.
April 11, 2018
I have read several delightful novellas recently, but I think this one tops them all!
September 22, 2017
3.5 Stars
May 3, 2018
I am so glad I have finally gotten on the awesome Pepper Basham train!! I have read Just The Way You Are and Second Impressions and loved both of them! I also have the rest of her back list waiting patiently in my TBR. Im really looking forward to digging into those soon!
When I think about all the books I have read, many heroes stand out, when it comes to heroines, not so many. I guess I’m more heroine picky than hero picky! 🤔 Anyway, of the books I’ve read of Pepper’s, I have loved her heroes but the awesome thing is, I have also loved her heroines! Eisley, from Just The Way You Are, is one of my favorite female characters ever. Nora, from Second Impressions, is right up there too! Nora is slightly quirky, sweet, smart, humorous, comfortable with herself, and doesn’t hesitate to defend herself or others. You can’t not like her! And Ethan? Well, other than one little hilarious blip (pillow scene!), he is awesome! Oh and what he does for Nora at the end...just perfect!
In fact, this novella was just about... perfect! I especially loved the humor (pillow scene 😉). Pepper did such a great job of making you feel like you were in Bath, that after reading this novella, I want to read Jane Austin while staying at the Elliott Elizabeth Inn in Bath, England!
Excellent!!
When I think about all the books I have read, many heroes stand out, when it comes to heroines, not so many. I guess I’m more heroine picky than hero picky! 🤔 Anyway, of the books I’ve read of Pepper’s, I have loved her heroes but the awesome thing is, I have also loved her heroines! Eisley, from Just The Way You Are, is one of my favorite female characters ever. Nora, from Second Impressions, is right up there too! Nora is slightly quirky, sweet, smart, humorous, comfortable with herself, and doesn’t hesitate to defend herself or others. You can’t not like her! And Ethan? Well, other than one little hilarious blip (pillow scene!), he is awesome! Oh and what he does for Nora at the end...just perfect!
In fact, this novella was just about... perfect! I especially loved the humor (pillow scene 😉). Pepper did such a great job of making you feel like you were in Bath, that after reading this novella, I want to read Jane Austin while staying at the Elliott Elizabeth Inn in Bath, England!
Excellent!!
April 15, 2019
Second Impressions is a very cute rendering of all things Austen in modern day Bath, England and a meeting of two Americans sent to Bath for different reasons.
Nora Simeon’s mother has gifted Nora with a dream trip to Bath, England as a birthday present. She goes to immerse herself in the culture of her favorite author. Ethan Kelly has been sent to Bath as well. He is tasked by his uncle with a new acquisition of on old Inn and with bringing it up to date.
Pepper Basham is just the best at unusual meetings and combining English villages with quirky romance. She is by far one of my favorite contemporary authors.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
Nora Simeon’s mother has gifted Nora with a dream trip to Bath, England as a birthday present. She goes to immerse herself in the culture of her favorite author. Ethan Kelly has been sent to Bath as well. He is tasked by his uncle with a new acquisition of on old Inn and with bringing it up to date.
Pepper Basham is just the best at unusual meetings and combining English villages with quirky romance. She is by far one of my favorite contemporary authors.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
June 27, 2021
This was a super quick and adorable read! I loved the frequent Jane Austen references and the English countryside a setting. Fans of contemporary romance that weaves in some elements of the classics, this is for you! Oh and that kiss?? Phew. I had to have a glass of water nearby after that. I just saw another novella by Pepper Basham that seems like it's related to this one so I'm reading that next.
August 2, 2021
This was such a fun story! I just want to take another trip to Bath and stay at the Elliott Elizabeth Inn! If you love Jane Austen, this is perfect for you!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews