Story of Us by Teri Wilson Book Review

Story of Us by Teri Wilson is a unique and sweet Persuasion retelling. While this is a retelling, that is only a component of an overall wonderful story. 

This story invites bibliophiles into the narrative and hands them a delicious, artful latte. The first host is a sweet cat named Eliot. I freaked out because my mind went straight to T.S. Eliot who wrote the poems that inspired Cats. Sure enough, that was why. I also see it being a nod to Anne Elliot from Persuasion. The setting predominately is set in and revolves around a local bookshop. Jamie, the owner of the shop, like many book worms, looks forward to Tuesdays since it is publication day. 

Both main characters get to narrate their own side of the story. Jamie is the ultimate bibliophile. She has spent her life going to, managing, and now owning the bookstore True Love. Everything she does, she does because of her love of books. Sawyer is a hopeless romantic who can cast his charm on anyone. Both lead characters are well developed, and their storyline is perfect. There is tension between Jamie and Sawyer because one is trying to persuade the town to stay small, while the other is doing the complete opposite. There is a small love triangle containing these two characters. However, it is only a small part of the story. 

During the larger story, there are two side stories. Lucy and Rick who are also adorable. They have been in love since they laid eyes on each other, yet neither of them could build up the courage to admit it. Then you have the love story of the original owners of True Love Bookstore. Their love is uniquely told by photographs and letters. 

This Valentine’s Day themed book nods at Persuasion, but the similarities end pretty close to Jamie and Sawyer being high school sweethearts, breaking up, and having a second chance at love. This story read quickly and paced perfectly. 

Story of Us ended up being the perfect read for Valentine’s Day! I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a sweet happy ending, second chances, books, small towns, loveable characters, cats, love triangles, and/or Persuasion. I cannot wait to read another book by Teri Wilson. 

As a bonus, there is a delicious recipe at the end of the book. 

I received an electronic Advanced Reader Copy from Hallmark Publishing through NetGalley. All opinions are 100% my own.