Laugh out loud humor combines with stick-your-head-in-the-freezer kisses in this novel of romance, faith, and a little historical mystery.”
Never has a book endorsement left me more panicked at what I’d gotten myself into. Seriously? I chose a book with “stick your head in the freezer kisses?” Who thought this was a good fit for me?
But I’ve never read anything by Pepper Basham, and I wanted to. So, despite those “freezer kisses” that had my sap warning on high alert, I dove into Just the Way You Are and promised myself that before choosing future books to review, I’d read the synopses and reviews of authors’ other books—see if endorsements would make me “go a runnin’!”
Oh, and for the curious, the first startling and utterly swoony, drippy, sappy, “heart-melting” kiss had nothing to do with the main character, Eisley. WHEW!
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About the Book:
Title: Just the Way You Are
Author: Pepper Basham
Synopsis: Single mom, Eisley Barrett, prefers to keep romance housed within a centuries-old mystery, but when she travels to England to unearth the secret, an actor with a sordid past offers her heart a very different type of discovery.
Wes Harrison has a past he’s ashamed to confess. Suspicious and cynical, he’s managed to avoid romantic entanglements since a tragedy upended his career and life, that is until American Eisley Barrett comes along. Her authenticity and kindness upend his bitter assumptions and send his heart into unscripted territory.
When his past threatens to ruin a second chance at love, can some Appalachian matchmaking and letters from the grave salvage their unexpected romance?
Humor, love, mystery, cute kids, crazy families, and culture clashes make this Britallachian Romance a unique and delightful romantic comedy sprinkled with adventure.
What I thought of Just the Way You Are
Well, let’s talk opening scene. It took exactly one sentence for me to decide I liked the writing style. Half a dozen sentences proved that I’d love the main female character. The third line spoken—sold me. I had no doubt that not only would I love the book, I’d be giving it a 5-star review. Again, I was right. It feels so good to be right now and then.
I read on, all eagerness and with one eye squinted whenever a male appeared. Just keepin’ it real.
It happened. Fast. And yes, this author loves her romance. Every pitter and patter of every heart. Racing pulses. Swooning knees. You name it. She’s got it.
And she does it with such humor that I still couldn’t stop reading. Eisley—she’s keeper. Seriously. Love her character. Perhaps because I relate to her “run-my-mouth-to-cover-my-awkwardness” approach to miserable situations.
But it goes deeper than that.
For example, when Pepper Basham compared a toddler to a “cuter version of Gollom,” I knew that nothing, not even kisses that make me have to skip three pages would stop me from finishing this book. And she didn’t do that to me, you know. Only two pages. I only had to skip two. Ahem.
I’ll be honest. I wouldn’t give Just the Way You Are to a girl under eighteen unless she was accustomed to frank expressions of sexual attraction. Then again, should anyone miss out on, “We snogged? Shouldn’t I remember doing something like snogging?”
That’s only the slightest hint of the amazing one/two liners that pepper this book. With a name like Pepper, we should have expected it. Well named, Ma and Pa Pepper! Well named!
So, for a slight summary, here we go.
What I loved:
Characterization—it was phenomenal. Every character stuck to his or her personality, quirks and all. She managed to make me feel sorry for the bad guy while still rooting for said bad guy’s demise. I even cheered for the good guys, even when they blew it. And the misunderstandings were PLAUSIBLE. Shocker!
Setting. I swear, Ms. Basham has a FABULOUS sense of description. There was just enough to make me feel like I was there without burdening me with too much. Well done. SUPER well done.
Mystery—this book took the poking around into interesting places we’re used to seeing with sleuths like Nancy Drew and blended it brilliantly with the deduction skills of a more intellectual sleuth. In the end—a totally satisfying combination. She also gave me a cool new idea for Madeline that’ll be nothing like hers, but it sparked that image in my head. So, thanks for that!
But one of the best things in Just the Way You Are is how, without preachiness but with solid references to Scripture, she leads you, time and again, back to the Lord and reminds you of Biblical truths and principles. It’s why she included the mystery and so many other well-rounded elements.
What I didn’t love as much:
The sap. Seriously, I know this is a romance, and I expect it. I can get past those “freezer kisses” referenced above, and even appreciated her addressing serious attraction between Christians. It was realistically done. Well done. But, that said, by the end, the lengthy declarations of undying love and affection were… a bit much. A girl can only take so much, you know. We get it. They’re in love. Bully for them.
I do also have a nit-picky issue with the book. Pronouns attributed to God are not capitalized and being so used to that, I actually stopped reading and backtracked a few times. The “he” and “him” and “You’re” and “Your” become convoluted in the narrative.
Still, five stars all the way.
Seriously, anyone who not only can but DOES write, “Can you fall off a crag?” in a way that makes it utterly charming and snicker-worthy—deserves 5 stars right there.
Okay, so maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration. How about this? Because Just the Way You Are really was one of the best books I’ve read in a very long time. Top ten of the past couple of years. Best this year so far. And, even knowing how sappy she is, I’m off to buy another of her books. I just hope the characters are as amazing as in this one.
Well, and because of some of her brilliant lines. Probably my favorite encouraging line for me as a Christian is when she’s trying to figure out what the Lord wants for her and she says, “Or maybe You’re trying to get me to watch where You’re going” (capitals mine).
Not long after that, the line “Did God love her or what?” showed up and slapped me upside the head. NOW THAT is how we should think of our Amazing Father! Something cool happens and it’s an instant reminder of the Lord’s love and provision. How cool is that?
Haha love your take on “freezer kisses.” Nice to know I’m not the only one! I have read and loved Pepper Basham’s books for the characters, skipping a few overly kissy sentences. Must get this one as well. Always looking forward to your posts.?
I LOVE her writing or I’d not read just for those freezers alone!
This book sounds so great! Thanks for sharing about it.
The more I think about it the better it gets, too. It really is one of those things that has multiple layers.
grinning like an idiot right now 🙂
Ahhhhh (think it is a frustrating one, but not sure). Every review of this book I read makes me want to run out and buy it. Right. This. Instant. “Freezer kisses” and all. And now your review is tipping the scale even farther. I have a set budget each month for Amazon. (Otherwise I need a better way to make money from my reviews. But until I can write them like Chautona, I don’t see that happening. ??)
But back to the question. “Freezer kisses.” Would they bother me. Not so much. For a while I could read a lot of genres and romance was one of them. Now, I am moving to sweet and more Christian romance. I still have to read some of the others for my blog, but I am starting to draw a line. And I do find myself skipping pages with scenes that are anymore intense than “freezer kisses.”
So, yes, I could probably do fine with “freezer kisses.” They are probably sweet and add a little something to the novel. But if they don’t, it won’t be the first book where I skipped a page or two and it won’t be the last.
But back to my issue: everyone needs to stop writing about how manning this book is. I get it. I really do. I can’t wait to read it, more than anyone knows. (How I missed it on Celebrate Lit I have no clue.) Soooo, I will be checking my Amazon budget, yet again, and seeing if I can eek it through soon. Because goodness knows, I get it. Read. This. Book. Now. That should be all the reviews should have to say. ? I got it and it will happen.
Hee hee! Right? I so wish I had it in paperback. I’d mail it to you–after everyone in the house got done with it. Meanwhile, I’ll see if my daughter buys it. If she does, maybe she can loan it to you!
I broke down and grabbed it. I couldn’t resist. Every review was just amazing. So, once I finish this anthology — 11 short story mysteries where each has a male and female author, I will be reading her book. Unless an ARC pops up and I will read and review that.
If she does get it have her try Ave Books on Amazon. They often have mega deals! More than their other “used” book site. 🙂
Alicia,
I hope it lives up to the hype for you!! THanks for buying it 🙂
I prefer to not read, ‘stick your head in the freezer kisses”, but I’m not as opposed to them as you seem to be. This review makes me want to read this book. Right. Now. =) I always enjoy your reviews. Honest and kind, they are trustworthy.
I’m a wuss. Remember Jillow’s quote…
I don’t think you’re a wuss, just… a tad Victorian maybe? ; ).
I like a bit of romance but not so fond of”stick your head in the freezer kisses”, but you’ve totally intrigued me and I want to read this book. Thanks for the review. And I’d love the free copy! Lol ?
Well, honestly, I have no idea what a stick your head in the freezer kiss might be —
but you have me interested in this book because you like the characterization and because of the British element.
And I do like romance. 🙂
Thank you — Susan
It’s a very sweet, realistic romance. I liked it as far as romances go. And Pepper Basham says I’ll like “A Twist of Faith” so I’m trying that next.
Chautona, great review! Love the style!! What a thoughtful and well written review.
Thanks! I loved the book. Did you read it?
First time I have been to your blog site. I loved your review! You have a great personality and honesty that comes through. I love how you highlighted the great and what you saw as drawbacks with care and yet still allowing us a full picture of what to expect. I came to read the review of Pepper Basham’s new book. I am not a romance reader either, but her writing is too good to pass over for a couple pages. As such I don’t know what I opinion I have of “stick your head in the freezer kisses,” but I am looking forward to reading her book.
Thanks
I hope you enjoy it! I thought it was a great book, and I’m using her “Twist of Faith” to reward myself after tax stuff. WOOT!
That was the first I read of hers. Enjoy!
I suspect I will!
OK, you definitely got my attention with this review.
I like a little romance, but I like it to be spice in the cake instead of the whole cake or even frosting on the cake when it comes to books.
Stick-your-head- in-the-freezer-kisses made me do a double take. Yeah, what is Ms Chautona (had to say Ms because of my Belizean culture roots) doing reading a book like that? Then my next thought was: Is that an idom or describing a real scene?
Regardless you’ve piqued my interest and now I want to go check out this author. Which is what a good review should do, so thanks! I sure hope she has some freebies for me to try, cause one thing I love is a book that makes me laugh.
Now I have to go see if I bought it or not. I can’t remember.
{walks to the freezer} I’m already blushing and I don’t even own the book. But I might read it if you tell me which pages to skip.
Watch out for the hunter’s tower and the pantry! Pantries are dangerous places.
I’ve already told you this, but I LOVE THIS REVIEW!!!!
And even though I did get all smoochy, I’m SO glad you enjoyed the story!! I’ve been back to reread your review 4 times this morning because it just makes me smile from the inside out!!
Thank you soooooooo much, Chautona!!!!!!
Aw… thanks! I’m glad you liked it. I loved the book, so it’s kind of mutual–sorta!
I must confess I’ve read worse than freezer kisses and continued reading. I tend to just skim if possible. I do think this book sounds intriguing!
I’ve done that as well, but I sure do love when I don’t have to. 😀
Love your review! But I have to say, I also love stick-my-head-in-the-freezer kisses. Just ask my hubby 😉
Well, I suppose, put that way, I should clarify that I prefer them in person–just one person.
Best. Review. EVER! haha! You’ve picked out all my favorite parts of this fabulous book 🙂
Wasn’t it amazing? I loved it! 🙂
Oh! I absolutely love how you wrote your thoughts and review on this book. I love your honesty and clarity of writing. I need to learn from you because I seriously enjoyed reading your thoughts on this book (and I really enjoy Pepper’s work).
Thank you! I think I’ve found a new “one of my top favorite authors.”
This may be one of my favorite reviews! I agree that Pepper’s descriptive powers are amazing! She hooks me from the very start. And Iike you, I love the lines like “Did God love her or what?” Some lines speak so deeply to my heart, and encourage me. I think she handles the “Stick-your-head-in-the-freezer kisses” very tastefully! I have read her books more than once, and I especially love the audio book for The Thornbearer, which I have listened to 3 times, and still can’t wait to listen to it again!
OOOH! I’ll have to check that out! Cool!
That is a great phrase. She should trademark it.
I get a little uncomfortable when there’s too much description of the man’s hands – as in, where they are going and what they are stroking.
Otherwise, I’m convinced! It sounds like a delightful book. Thanks for the recommendation. 😀
Right? It’s awesome. At first, I thought, “What on earth is wrong with describing man’s hands? Then I kept reading. Hee hee! With you on that. It’s so hard even to put the simplest, stroke of a thumb on the back of another hand
LOL. It’s very descriptive, but eh. I always skip those bits too. Let me know they’re in love, and leave it at that. Even though they’re fictional, I still feel like a voyeur reading things like that.
You spoke my thoughts so well!!!