Have you ever read an epistolary novel? I highly recommend Authentically Izzy.

An epistolary novel is where the main part (or sometimes all) the story is told through written communication. Letters, emails, texts, journal entries, transcripts of phone conversations…you get the idea. The technique can be really powerful and a lot of fun.

Pepper Basham is a master of this. Book obsessed librarian Izzy is surrounded by colorful cousins. (Please tell me Luke and Penelope are both getting stories). Her quiet, predictable life turns inside out when one cousin signs her up to a dating site.

Izzy finds love. Unfortunately, bookstore owner Brodie, lives halfway around the world on and island with strong Scottish heritage.

Basham’s books (I’ve read quite a few, because she’s a gifted storyteller), are often characterized by wonderful characters and Authentically Izzy is no different. Izzy is another heroine to root for, and Brodie, a swoon-worthy hero to fall for. The humor as the cousins interact, when their personalities clash, is hilarious. The controlling Josephine, laid back and philosophical Luke and frothy Penelope are a perfect counterpoint to bookish and considered Izzy.

As romance develops and plane rides follow, family dynamics grow more complex. But through it all, Izzy and Brodie fight for the love they’ve found and as ever, Pepper Basham delivers a wonderful ending.

Did I mention, highly recommended?

I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley. And Pepper is a friend. I’m very glad she’s also a great storyteller or this would be extremely awkward!