Authentically, Izzy

"Isn't loving someone being comfortable with who they are by being exactly who you are?" Even if you aren't a fan of epistolary writing, you will absolutely love this book. Full of fantastic humor, laugh-out-loud moments, tender vulnerability, amazing characters, and real-life faith, the book will capture your heart. Throw in tons of book and movie references and delicious banter and you have a perfect romcom to curl up with on a cold afternoon. I love Pepper Basham's books and this one is her best romantic comedy yet (which is saying A LOT)! It's amazing how the plot flows and we get to know the characters so well through written email and text exchanges. Izzy's relationship with her cousins is enviable but she does harbor deep insecurities and doubts that only surface towards the end. Her creativity, authenticity, and love for others are so refreshing and genuine. And Brodie.... he's a keeper! His awkwardness, bookish nerdiness, soul-deep passion and commitment to family and legacy and dreams, and tender and astute love for Izzy are endearing and make him the perfect hero. Izzy and Brodie's story had me grinning from ear to ear the whole time, with tears of sympathy and joy interspersed. And we so desperately need Luke and Anders and Brynna's stories soon.....and I can't wait to read Penelope's own happily-ever-after. I received the book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

Authentically Izzy by Pepper Basham is one more example of why Basham is one of my favorite authors. I laughed so many times reading this book and that's one of the best things that can happen in a book. Watching the relationship develop between Izzy and Brodie, which was initially an online friendship and then became a full-fledged romance, kept me thoroughly entertained. The secondary characters were all interesting and added a unique dimension to the story. I did enjoy the faith element that focused really on trusting God with our lives. The story is an epistolary story, so a good portion of the story is told through text messages and emails. But there is actual narrative and dialogue interspersed throughout. I really enjoyed the novel and think other readers will feel satisfied at the end of this happily-ever-after story. I received an ARC but will be purchasing the paperback to add to my Pepper Basham collection.