As of today (February 27, 2024), you can buy and read “Once Persuaded, Twice Shy” by Melodie Edwards! I’ve read it, and it’s a real treat.
Edwards, known for “Jane & Edward” (a former book club favorite), has come out with a new take on “Persuasion,” and it’s amazing! If you enjoyed “Persuasion” or are a fan of contemporary romance novels or even Taylor Swift (yes, there’s a Swift playlist in the book), you should definitely check this out. It remains faithful to Austen’s spirit while giving the story a modern twist that’s both believable and fresh. Plus, the setting in Niagara-on-the-Lake is so charming, you might want to add it to your travel list!
In celebration of the book’s release, we’re highlighting this new women’s fiction novel with its official description and a bit about the author below. Give it a shot! Just a heads-up, there’s some swearing and mild implied sensuality in the book.
ONCE PERSUADED, TWICE SHY: A MODERN REIMAGINING OF PERSUASION – OFFICIAL BOOK DESCRIPTION
This modern reimagining of “Persuasion” brings witty banter, romantic tension, and captivating characters, capturing the essence of Jane Austen’s original.
When Anne Elliott broke up with Ben Wentworth, it seemed like the right decision, but eight years later, she’s not so sure. In her picturesque hometown of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Anne is absorbed in her successful career—stepping into her late mother’s role as town councilor and running her theater company. She’s always busy managing eccentric locals, self-centered family members, grand festivals, and the occasional unruly goose. Yet, despite her efforts to convince herself her life is fine, it feels like a performance, not as good as the theater productions she oversees. Anne is the dependable one, often taken for granted, and memories of happier times with Ben still linger.
When Ben’s aunt and uncle purchase the nearby Kellynch Winery, Anne’s world is upended as Ben re-enters her life, clearly still hurt from their breakup. A collaboration between the winery and her theater forces them to face their tangled past. As they spend more time together, Anne starts to wonder if there might be a chance for their future.
AUTHOR BIO – ABOUT MELODIE EDWARDS
Melodie Edwards wrote “Jane & Edward” (March 21, 2023) and “Once Persuaded, Twice Shy” (February 27, 2024). She holds a BA in English Literature from the University of Toronto, a Master’s degree in Communications from McMaster University and Syracuse University, and has studied comedy writing at the Second City Training Centre.
Her work has appeared in Writer’s Digest, G160 Theatre Festival, the Austin Film Festival Playwright Competition, and the Hart House Drama Festival.
Well, we hope we’ve sparked your interest in “Once Persuaded, Twice Shy.” If you love contemporary retellings of classic literature and Jane Austen, this book is for you.
To purchase the book, visit the official Penguin Random House page for “Once Persuaded, Twice Shy” by Melodie Edwards.
