Review: Give Me a Reason by M. A. S. G.
As a self-proclaimed aficionado of Jane Austen’s works, particularly "Persuasion," I couldn’t help but feel giddy about diving into Give Me a Reason by M. A. S. G. This contemporary retelling, set against the backdrop of a Korean-American experience, captured my attention instantly. After all, who doesn’t love a story steeped in longing, heartache, and second chances? When I snagged an ARC from NetGalley, I was ready to immerse myself in a tale that promised both nostalgia and fresh perspectives.
This novel reintroduces us to Anne Lee and Frederick Nam, former college sweethearts whose fiery romance was extinguished when Anne pursued her dreams of becoming an actress in Seoul. Fast forward ten years, and fate collides their paths once more during a wedding—where, of course, they find themselves on opposite sides of the aisle. The tension? Thick enough to cut with a knife. What I loved most was the dual POV format, a rarity in Austen retellings, allowing readers an intimate glimpse into Frederick’s yearning heart—his emotional landscape is as compelling as a well-written letter.
The author deftly balances the angst of both characters. Frederick, with his angry bravado, tries to shield his heart, while Anne is a portrait of regretful longing. Their inner dialogues are rich and layered, though occasionally repetitive. Still, I found myself laughing out loud at their classic overthinking, as they both spiral into misunderstandings—Frederick believing Anne is smitten with someone else, and Anne juggling her feelings for him. Humor, woven through their inner chaos, made their journey relatable; it reminded me of my own moments of romantic turmoil.
One of the standout aspects of Give Me a Reason is its epistolary element. Frederick’s letters to Anne add a tender reminiscence to their relationship, capturing the essence of youthful love. Each note he writes is imbued with a mix of vulnerability and hope—these moments struck a chord deep in my romantic heart. The final love letter? Oh, it was the cherry on top that made my heart swoon! The chemistry that boiled over after a decade of pining—my goodness, was it worth the wait!
Of course, no book is without its criticisms. A few readers pointed out repetitive inner monologues and a lack of dramatic tension with characters like Mr. Elliot—though I disagreed with that latter point. For me, the novel balanced the showing and telling just right. And while I wished for deeper explorations of familial relationships and past challenges Anne faced, I appreciated the solid ties to the original Austen narrative.
Ultimately, Give Me a Reason is a delightful homage to Persuasion, breathing new life into familiar characters while striking that essential Austen chord of yearning. Its humor, romance, and palpable tension offer something for everyone—from die-hard Austen fans to contemporary romance lovers. If you’ve ever found yourself lost in a world of unfulfilled love and missed chances, this book is calling your name. With three more Persuasion retellings hitting the shelves this year, I can confidently say this is my favorite thus far—and trust me, you don’t want to miss out!
So, if you’re seeking a delectable blend of romance with a side of laughter, grab a copy of Give Me a Reason. You might just find yourself longing for your own second chance. Happy reading!