Pride and Practicality - by Pepper Basham (Paperback)

About the Book

A newly appointed rector and a woman whose reputation is in ruins work together to save orphaned children of St. Groves while fighting an attraction that could ruin his career and her restored future. An opposites-attract Regency rom-com that will delight fans of Eloisa James and Julia Quinn looking for a low-spice alternative.

Book Synopsis

In a world ruled by reputation, compassion may be the most scandalous act of all. Perfect for fans of Tessa Dare and Eloisa James looking for a low-spice, witty Regency romance. "It is a truth universally acknowledged that a reader in possession of a good humor, must be in want of a Pepper Basham book--and Pride and Practicality is one of her best." --Karen Witemeyer

Arianna Reeves knows how quickly admiration can turn into exile. One poorly placed trust, one disastrously charming rake, and she is no longer society's darling--but its favorite cautionary tale.

Now returned home--uninvited and unmistakably whispered about--Arianna is determined to make amends with her estranged family and do something useful with her thoroughly ruined life. Even if polite society would prefer she did it at a very great distance from anyone respectable.

Thomas Bridges, a principled clergyman with an inconvenient habit of thinking for himself, is already walking a narrow line. His congregation expects propriety, his mother expects matrimony, and both have very firm opinions about his future. Thomas, however, would prefer a life guided by conviction . . . even when it proves impractical.

When Arianna repeatedly--and quite disruptively--crosses his path, Thomas faces a dilemma no sermon prepared him for. She is not at all what she ought to be: not dull, not foolish, and--most dangerously--not someone he can overlook, but a kindred spirit who shares his passion for service and his troubling habit of defying society's expectations . . . all with good intentions, of course.

As their forbidden acquaintance deepens into something far more perilous than friendship, Arianna and Thomas must decide: preserve their reputations, or risk them entirely for the good of others----and their own hearts.

Because in a society that measures worth by perfection, choosing grace, mercy, and love may cost them everything--and give them more than they ever hoped to find.

In Pride and Practicality, Pepper Basham delivers a Regency rom-com brimming with lively banter, heartfelt charm, and just enough mischief to keep propriety on its toes. With a kisses-only romance that sparkles with chemistry and a story rich in faith, humor, and second chances, this delightful tale invites readers to laugh, sigh, and fall in love with a romance that is as meaningful as it is joyful.

Review Quotes

'Readers of Regency romance will love this swoony take on Jane Austen's world, complete with heroes, rogues, and everyone in between. Fans of THE LOST LIEUTENANT by Erica Vetsch and A NOBLE MASQUERADE by Kristi Ann Hunter will want to add Basham (SENSE AND SUITABILITY) to their list.'--Library Journal

'Overcoming societal barriers to their match provides drama, but plenty of lighter moments will hit the right spot for fans of historical romance, Hallmark movies, and, of course, Jane Austen, and the reappearance of characters from Basham's SENSE AND SUITABILITY (2025) in supporting roles adds to the enjoyment for returning readers, although the book can easily be read on its own.'--Booklist

'Basham follows up SENSE AND SUITABILITY with another sweet, Jane Austen-inspired Regency romance . . . it's easy to root for swoon worthy Thomas and headstrong Arianna as they muddle through a series of humorous obstacles and missteps in search of a happy ending. This cute, cheery take on the classic satisfies.'--Publishers Weekly

'Truly, this Regency romance is a charmer from start to finish, complete with a swoony hero, a sparkling cast, and--believe it or not--a pet squirrel who very nearly steals the show. The story kept me turning pages, frequently grinning, and hoping hard that somehow Thomas and Arianna would get their happily-ever-after. Jane Austen would surely offer an approving nod at this satisfying tale.'--Michelle Griep, Christy Award-winning author of THE BIRD OF BEDFORD MANOR

'PRIDE AND PRACTICALITY sparkles with wit, charm, and heart-melting romance. The writing is deliciously clever, the characters delightful, and the story had me grinning from first page to last. With themes of hope, service, and restoration, there is impressive spiritual depth woven beneath all the frolicking fun. It is a truth universally acknowledged that a reader in possession of a good humor, must be in want of a Pepper Basham book--and PRIDE AND PRACTICALITY is one of her best.'--Karen Witemeyer, Christy Award winning author

'With irresistible humor, history, and heart, Pepper Basham's PRIDE AND PRACTICALITY is a Regency romp to adore. A heroic rector and a 'lost' heiress collide in an irresistible opposites-attract, second-chance romance. Swoony, sweet, and delightfully uplifting! Encore!'--Laura Frantz, Christy Award-winning author of THE SAINT AND THE SPY