Book Review: Give Me a Reason by Kira Jane Buxton
Ever found yourself completely enamored with a retelling, especially when it’s of a classic you already adore? That’s exactly what happened to me with Give Me a Reason by Kira Jane Buxton. As a self-proclaimed “hoe for Persuasion,” I couldn’t resist diving into this Korean-American adaptation, infused with angst, nostalgia, and a dash of romantic comedy. A heartfelt thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for this honest review.
At its core, Give Me a Reason is a tantalizing second-chance romance that reintroduces us to Anne Lee and Frederick Nam, whose love story flickered brightly during their college years before fading away—or so they thought. The complexity of their reunion at a wedding ten years later had me hooked, proving that the flames of the past can burn just as fiercely when reignited.
What struck me immediately was the author’s innovative choice to use dual points of view. So often in Persuasion retellings, we only see one side of the coin. However, stepping into Frederick’s mind was an absolute delight. His yearning for Anne felt so tangible; you could almost reach out and touch it. Anne’s pining, laced with regret, was just as palpable, making for a deliciously angsty narrative that tugged at my heartstrings. These two were so beautifully flawed, and witnessing their struggles was both frustrating and exhilarating in equal measure.
The way Buxton crafted moments to showcase Frederick’s inner conflict was particularly effective—his gruff exterior crumbling in the face of his feelings for Anne. Simultaneous to this was the charming epistolary element. Letters from a young Frederick, bursting with innocence and unfiltered emotion, flowed seamlessly through the narrative. Their evolution into heartfelt messages packed with yearning was simply exquisite. That buildup culminated in an epic love letter at the end that left me breathless.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a romantic read without the delightful comedy of overthinking. I found myself chuckling at how both characters were constant overanalyzers, convinced of their incorrect assumptions about each other’s affections. Their internal monologues, while sometimes repetitive, only added to the humor and relatability, reminding me of my own propensity to overthink situations.
However, no book is without its quirks. The inner monologues may have lingered longer than needed, and occasionally I yearned for a bit more interaction with the supporting characters. Mr. Elliot’s role left something to be desired, and I found myself wishing for deeper flashbacks into Anne’s personal struggles with her family. Still, these small grievances didn’t detract from the overall experience.
If you’re a fellow Austen enthusiast—or even just someone who enjoys a good slow-burn romance—I can’t recommend Give Me a Reason enough. It honors the essence of Persuasion while bringing fresh emotions and cultural perspectives to the table. Whether you’re in it for the yearning, the letters, or the laugh-out-loud moments of miscommunication, this retelling has something for everyone.
In conclusion, Give Me a Reason is a poignant reminder of the complexities of love, time, and human emotions. I was left reflecting on my own past relationships, drawn in by the authenticity of Anne and Frederick’s journey. It’s a captivating tale of love lost and found, perfect for anyone yearning for that exquisite mix of heartbreak and hope. If you haven’t picked it up yet, I urge you to reconsider—you won’t regret it!
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