First Impressions by Debra White Smith Book Review

First Impressions is described as a “Contemporary Retelling of Pride and Prejudice” – A Jane Austen classic. In this version, lawyer Eddi Boswick joins a local theater production of Pride and Prejudice because she’s bored with her life outside of work in small town London, Texas. She’s given the leading role, opposite the town’s most popular, yet pompous bachelor Dave Davidson. Off to a rocky start during an initial stormy (literally) meeting, the two would-be actors skirt around the heart of the matter – their genuine attraction for one another.

I love Jane Austen. I love Pride and Prejudice. I also love most retellings of Austen’s classic novels. This one? Not so much. I found it wordy, cheesy and difficult to get into. I struggled to connect with any of the characters and was not at all a fan of the author’s overly descriptive writing. It was highly predictable, which isn’t necessarily a deal breaker for me – especially when it comes to romance novels.

I’m confused about the duplicate editions of this book. I noticed there is an earlier version of this book – same title and author – that was released in 2004. Nothing about this version says it’s an updated, revised or re-edited edition. I can only assume it’s the same book, released by two different publishers.

There is a clear Christian, faith-based message within this book, which I don’t have a problem with, but some people might. Particularly since there’s no mention of this anywhere in the book description.

I really wanted to like this book, but I honestly could not. Other readers might appreciate it more than I did, but I just didn’t enjoy it. I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers.

2 of 5 Stars