Persuade Me

Book excerpt: This contemporary tale is “an enjoyable retelling of Jane Austen’s Persuasion . . . Cleverly and thoughtfully done” (The Bookbag). Ten years ago, Anna Elliot let the love of her life go because her overbearing family disapproved of him. And ever since, she’s regretted her decision, wondering every day if she’s given up her only chance for real happiness. After Anna shattered his heart, Dr. Rick Wentworth moved on—and away—to Australia, where his work in marine conservation garnered international fame and respect. But when it comes to his feelings, he’s still an island unto himself. Fate intercedes when Rick travels home to England for a book tour, and Anna makes an attempt at some closure for herself. Then their shared memories intrude—and the love they once had seems ready to awaken once again. But with Anna’s image-obsessed family always ready to interfere, and Rick poised to ditch the limelight and return to Australia, she’s not sure she can persuade him to risk his heart again for her, in this delightful novel by the author of The Importance of Being Emma.