Captive Hearts – Cover Reveal

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Are you one of many who has been wishing for a good Persuasion variation? If you are, Kelly Miller has a story for you. Captive Hearts should appeal to all lovers of Jane Austen fan fiction. It is a good book and will delight readers. Just when you think all is falling into place, Kelly throws in a twist or two. She lulls you into a false sense of security, then delivers a punch!

Before we reveal the cover of Captive Hearts, let’s hear from Kelly about why she chose to write this novel. Then we will give you an idea of what the book is about with the back cover copy and an excerpt! Are you ready?

Why Write a Persuasion Variation?

The idea of creating a variation of Jane Austen’s Persuasion started out as a challenge to myself, to see if I could give that narrative a fresh twist. When I began writing the story that came to be called Captive Hearts, I did not have the same affection for Anne Elliot and Captain Frederick Wentworth as I did for Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy—far from it. I had thought that Persuasion, written at the end of JA’s life—after she had experienced a number of disappointments—lacked the spark and magic of her earlier books.

However, I particularly enjoyed the 1995 Screen Two version of Persuasion made by BBC Films starring Amanda Root and Ciaran Hinds. The movie is beautifully shot, filmed on location, with fine performances all around. Even the 2007 version, for all of its odd alterations, made for an entertaining viewing, with Sallie Hawkins as an amazingly accomplished Anne and Rupert Penry-Jones as a dashing Wentworth. And I look forward to the two movie versions of Persuasion expected to release in 2022. In truth, any Austen-inspired movie is cause for excitement!

Once I got into the flow of writing my story, and re-reading Persuasion at the same time, the characters came alive for me, with Captain Wentworth and Anne Elliot taking on new dimensions. I took small liberties with Anne and Wentworth while attempting to stay close to JA’s conception of the pair, and I grew quite attached to them. My appreciation for JA’s talent grew, for her indomitable spirit shines within the pages of Persuasion, even though she had been suffering from a painful and debilitating illness when she wrote it.

After I had completed the manuscript, I looked back on the early chapters and realized they needed more divergence from Canon. I mentioned this to my husband one day, and he said, “Why not add Darcy and Elizabeth to the mix?” At first, I dismissed his suggestion, but the more I thought about it, the more possibilities I saw. Thus, in the first three chapters of Captive Hearts, Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy—as guests of the Musgrove family—play small but significant parts in those familiar, early scenes.

While the popularity of Persuasion pales to that of Pride & Prejudice, many consider it to be their favorite of JA’s books. With that in mind, I have strived to meet these readers’ expectations. I hope those who are not particularly enamored by Persuasion will give Captive Hearts a chance; maybe they will come away with an abiding fondness for Anne Elliot and Frederick Wentworth like I did.

If you give Captive Hearts a chance, you will be glad you did. The story of Anne Elliot and Frederick Wentworth is a lovely romance. It is fraught with uncertainties and problems as are most worthy romances, but it is a story of abiding love, and Kelly tells it well. What do you think about the addition of Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy in some early scenes? Even if their role is small, Kelly says it is significant. I’m eager to know more.

The back cover copy gives readers a hint of what is in store for them. Shall we read it?

Captive Hearts Back Cover Copy

Will Captain Wentworth realize too late that he has a second chance at love?

With a successful naval career and a fortune to his name, Frederick Wentworth receives a hero’s welcome from his sister’s neighbours.

One person, though, presents a source of vexation. Years earlier, Miss Anne Elliot had reneged on her promise to marry Wentworth, revealing a significant character flaw. Yet Anne’s unmarried state at the age of seven and twenty, her altered demeanour, and her resolute avoidance of Wentworth raise questions that gnaw at his composure.

In this Regency variation of Jane Austen’s Persuasion, the captain follows the advice of a respected new friend and re-examines the agonizing circumstances of his bitter break from Anne, reaching a novel conclusion. But before he can act upon his new resolve, a dire twist of fate threatens Anne’s life.

Now that we have an idea of what the story is about, even if we do have more questions than answers, let us look at the cover. After the cover is revealed, Kelly shares the first excerpt of Captive Hearts.

What do you think? It is different, simple, but poignant. The look between Anne and Wentworth speaks volumes.

What about the back cover?

The drawing on the back depicts a scene from the book, but who are the people and what has happened? Do you think you know? I guess we will have to read it to find out!

I believe it is time for the highly anticipated excerpt! What do you think?

This excerpt, in Anne’s point of view, is a look back at 1806, the summer when Anne Elliot and Captain Frederick Wentworth first met. After having made the captain’s acquaintance at a dinner party the week prior, Anne has encountered him on her morning walk.

A bright smile lit up Captain Wentworth’s face, making him even more irresistible. He extended his arm.

Anne wrapped her hand around it in a slow, reverential motion. This simple action, so innocuous with any other person before him, had an immediate effect. A masculine aroma blended with leather and pine, at once pleasant, earthy, and unique to him, tantalised her. The physical contact of his muscular forearm inspired improper thoughts—not that she would ever act upon them. Still, to be safe, she held her arm aloft and restricted herself to the barest pressure. But the captain thwarted her attempt at prudence by resting his hand atop hers and leaving it there.

A quiet sigh passed her lips. She spared a glance to the graceful black steed trailing behind him. “Your horse is beautiful.”

“I thank you. Pray, allow me to formally introduce you.” He guided her into a rotating step to face the animal. “Miss Anne, I should like you to meet my good friend Jasper. Jasper, this is Miss Anne Elliot.”

She stroked the supple surface of the horse’s nose. “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Jasper.” She sneaked a sidelong glance at the captain. “I wonder…does your master often introduce you to his lady friends? If so, it must be difficult for you to remember all of their names.”

“Jasper knows better than to reveal my secrets.”

Anne tensed. Did his joking response hint at a capricious nature? After all, she had no idea of his true character.

His smile faded, and his bearing straightened. “Please excuse my clumsy attempt at humour. I have never introduced a lady to Jasper before, nor have I ever wished to do so. I hope you believe me.”

She took a deep breath. “I want to, but our acquaintance is new. I do not know you well.” A fiery flash of his eyes stole her focus. She swallowed.

“I want you to know me well.”

She smiled and nodded. They resumed walking.

“My brother told me that you often walk or ride in the mornings.”

“Oh.” Had Captain Wentworth asked his brother about her?“I have had several interesting discussions with your brother on the interpretations of certain Bible passages. He is more…modern in his thinking than most clergymen of my acquaintance.”

“Yes, he is.” He redirected his gaze to the grove ahead of them. “I…um…I hope I shall not alarm you when I say that since Friday night I have thought of little else but seeing you again.”

Did he speak the truth? Her stomach fluttered at the notion, but despite her heart’s yearning to trust his words, she could not—not yet. “I am not alarmed—quite the contrary. I enjoyed speaking with you last week.”

Had she said too much? Ought she to say more? His probing gaze seemed to beg for her to continue. “I…I have thought of you as well.”

He exhaled a rush of air. “Do you mean it? You have thought of me since Friday?”

“I should not say so otherwise.” Her voice cracked.

“Neither should I. I have ridden along the perimeter of your property each morning since we met in the hopes of catching sight of you. Today was the first time I crossed into your land.”

Her cheeks burned. “I am pleased you found me.”

“Now that I have, please tell me…” The captain’s captivating grin returned. “What have you read this week?”

Her answer prompted a discussion of the writings of Mary Wollstonecraft. The captain declared his admiration for the author and his endorsement of many of her opinions, including the notion that ladies ought not be denied opportunities to learn the same subjects taught to gentlemen. The thoughtful way he articulated notions considered by many to be radical further inspired Anne’s admiration.

She delayed their parting for as long as possible. This precious time alone with the captain allowed for more frank discussion than they could hope to have at any public gathering. But when they neared the turn in the path that would take them within sight of the house, she halted their progress. “I must leave you now.” She fought the urge to frown and moved to take her arm from his, but the captain stopped her.

“Just a moment, please.” He slipped his hand under hers and threaded their fingers together. A burst of comforting warmth surrounded her hand. “I must see you again. Will you meet me tomorrow morning?”

The ardency of his expression aroused a strange sort of giddiness, and her legs wobbled. “Shall we meet at the same place we did this morning?”

“Yes, thank you. Is 7:30 too early?”

She shook her head, unable to get a full breath. “No, I shall be there then.”

The soft, lingering kiss he bestowed on the back of her hand inspired a disdain for her gloves.

“Good day, Miss Elliot.” His fingers slowly released hers.

Her hand, even with the slight tingling sensation that lingered, had never felt so…bereft. “Good day, Captain Wentworth.” Anne managed her unsteady legs into a curtsy. She turned to leave, each step away from him requiring a concentrated effort. She resisted the urge to turn back until she reached the bend in the path. There, she halted and gazed behind her.

The captain remained in place. He lifted his hand in a wave. She smiled and waved back.

With a sigh, she forced herself to continue on home.

Aww, the thrill of that first meeting! Thank you, Kelly, for giving us such a delightful first excerpt. Now we can eagerly await more. The blog tour begins January 24th and will have excerpts and posts that Kelly has prepared. The blog stops and dates will be posted on the Meryton Press Facebook page. We invite you to visit and see what Kelly has in store for us.

Giveaway

Meryton Press is giving away two eBooks of Captive Hearts and the giveaway is international. The giveaway for this eBook will end at midnight, central time, on January 21st. Leave a comment to be entered. Tell us if you like Persuasion and if you are excited to have a variation about it? What did you think of Kelly’s first excerpt?  We look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Kelly’s Captive Hearts can be preordered at Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Other Books by Kelly Miller

These books are available at Amazon in eBook, paperback, audiobook, and Kindle Unlimited.

77 Responses

  1. DarcyBennett
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    Persuasion is my favorite JA novel so I am very excited for this variation.

    • Meryton Press
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      That’s great news, DarcyBennett. Maybe you will win a copy! Good luck and thanks for stopping by.

      • Sukanya Bora
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        Beautiful and attractive book cover. Eagerly waiting to read the book. Kelly’s books are beautifully written so I’m sure this one’s going to be amazing too. I know very little about Persuasion so it would be exciting for me to read this.

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much, DarcyBennett! I hope you approve of my portrayal of these beloved characters!

  2. Kelly Miller
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    Thanks so much, Janet! As you know, I love this cover! It’s exciting and a bit scary to have a Persuasion variation this time. I hope most P&P readers will want to try it out!

    • Meryton Press
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      I understand the feeling of it being a bit scary. There are many readers that love Persuasion, so I feel they will be eager to give Captive Hearts a try! It is such a good book, and the response to its release has been good! I’m excited for you and for this book. It is written well and edited well. Debbie Brown and Ellen did a great job of “polishing it up.” I’m also happy that you love the cover! 🙂 Congratulations on this release.

      • Kelly Miller
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        Thank you! I was lucky to have such expert editing assistance from Deb and Ellen! Meryton Press uses the best editors!

        • HELENA CRAGGS
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          I adore Kellys writing and I’m excited to read this. I love the cover—simple but striking. Congratulations, Kelly.

          • Kelly Miller
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            Thank you so much, Helen! I truly appreciate your support!

  3. J. W. Garrett
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    I love that cover. The colors, the expressions are so eye-catching as they grip you and pull you in making you want to know their story. The 1995 version of the movie is my favorite. I wasn’t too crazy about the 2007 film where Anne was running through Bath. That just seemed wrong and out of place. Although I have to admit, Penry-Jones was a handsome devil. Whew! I look forward to reading this new twist Kelly has planned for our couple. Blessings on the success of this launch. I would love to win a copy [eBook] so please include me in the giveaway. Good luck to all in the drawing.

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much for your kind words, JW! I’m so glad you approve of the cover! Like you, I think Penry-Jones was the best part of that movie!

  4. Andrew Merkel
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    Cover looks fantastic and I can’t wait to read another Kelly Miller book! Also will be a treat because I know very little about Persuasion!

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much, Drew! I hope you enjoy Captive Hearts! You might be inspired to watch one of the new Persuasion movies that will come out this year!

  5. Glynis
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    It’s a very compelling cover! I am happy to hear that Darcy and Elizabeth are included and that Wentworth seems to be seeking Anne’s company? I hope this is near the beginning of the book?

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much, Glynis! I appreciate your comment! Yes, the excerpt is from the beginning of the book!

  6. Mihaela
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    Singular cover! Very very beautiful! And the story promises to be as well both: singular and beautiful!
    Can’t wait to read it💜

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Mihaela! I do hope you enjoy the book!

  7. Joy D King
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    Persuasion is my favorite Jane Austen story. To me, Rupert Penry-Jones was an excellent Captain Wentworth. I am looking forward to reading this, Kelly.

    Janet, this cover is AWESOME!!!

    Please do not enter me in the drawing since I will buy it as soon as it launches. Best wishes, Kelly.

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much, Joy! I hope you like the directions I took Anne and Wentworth in for this story! I’m glad you agree that Janet did a fabulous job on this cover! And, yes, Penry-Jones is sigh-worthy!

  8. Samantha Filice
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    I haven’t read Persuasion but I’ve read other Jane Austen variations from Kelly Miller, and I’m excited for another! The cover has the same style as Accusing Mr Darcy (by Miller also) which means I need this novel to have a complete Miller collection!

    So thrilled to read the excerpt, I’m going to enjoy this book!

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much for your sweet comment, Sam! I hope you will learn to love Anne and Captain Wentworth, as I have!

  9. Robin G.
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    Persuasion is my second-favorite Jane Austen story, and I adore the 1995 movie version. I am looking forward to reading this story. Thank you for sharing an excerpt with us. Good luck with the new release!

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much for commenting, Robin! I appreciate your well-wishes and hope you enjoy the story!

  10. Marie H
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    This book sounds like it will be another gem by Kelly. I liked Persuasion, but except for Anne and the Captain, I didn’t like the characters too much. My favourite movie to date was also the Amanda Root and Ciaran Hinds version. Having the Darcys added will be treat and I’m imagining various ways they might influence the story early on. I’m definitely looking forward to reading this. I love the cover too!

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, Marie! I, too, was struck by the lack of warmth Anne Elliot was left with after her mother’s death in Canon. I hope you enjoy my treatment of these characters, both the loveable and not-so-loveable ones!

  11. Jan Hahn
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    Congratulations, Kelly, on your latest book. A Persuasion variation sounds inviting, and I loved the hesitant exploration of the couple’s early yearnings in your excerpt. Makes me want to read more. Now for the cover – it immediately reminded me of your Accusing Mr. Darcy which is one of my all-time favorite covers. I love the colors and expressions on the new cover! Here’s wishing you much success with Captive Hearts.

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much, Jan! I’m glad you enjoyed the excerpt and are a fan of the cover! Your well-wishes are much appreciated!

  12. Eva Edmonds
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    It is nice to read how they first met and their scheduled walks in the morning. Umm…reminds me of unscheduled walks at Rosings Park with a certain couple. It will be interesting to read about Mr. and Mrs. Darcy at the beginning of the book. Persuasion is my second favorite book after P&P. Thank you for the excerpt and giveaway. The cover is lovely – now I wonder if the characters on the back are not the ones in canon.

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much, Eva; I appreciate your comment! I hope you enjoy my vision of Persuasion with all the familiar characters and a couple of new ones too!

  13. Christine Letizia
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    What an exciting variation! I loved the excerpt. It pulled me in immediately. The chance to explore Anne and Wentworth’s first courtship already has me hooked. The cover definitely reminds me of Accusing Mr. Darcy which is great because it gives a sense of continuity. It turned out beautifully.
    Congratulations Kelly! I’m really looking forward to reading Captive Hearts.
    (Please do not enter me in the giveaway. I am already planning on buying the book.)

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much, Christine! I’m so glad you enjoyed the excerpt and the amazing cover that Janet designed! I truly appreciate your support and hope you enjoy the read!

  14. Tzippy Sheffi Elgar
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    Persuasion and Pride and Prejudice are my two most favorite JA novels. I am so excited about the upcoming release! The cover is beautiful and romantic, conveying Anne and Frederick’s longing for each other.

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much for your lovely compliments for the cover; I’m glad you like it! I appreciate your comment and hope you get to read the book soon!

  15. Mary
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    Hi Kelly,
    I must admit to loving the cover of your book. It’s quite different to a anything I’ve seen before.

    I must also admit to having a soft spot for the Persuasion version featuring Amanda Roots and Cíarán Hinds. Be still my beating heart.
    If your book is inspired in any way by this beautiful portrayal,then I’m guaranteed to love it. I’m certainly looking forward to reading it.
    Best of luck with it,Kelly. ☘️

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much, Mary! I’m glad you love the cover! Janet came up with a wonderful and unique one! Since the 1995 movie version is my favorite, I believe I was heavily influenced by it when I wrote this story. I hope you will like my portrayal of Anne and Captain Wentworth! I appreciate your comment!

  16. Neville Withington
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    Persuasion is my favorite JA novel (I think as we grow older it gets better). I am disappointed that so few people write Persiasion alternatives and long for good ones. This book promises to be good and I look forward to reading it.

    • Kelly Miller
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      So glad to hear that Persuasion is your favorite, Neville! I truly hope you enjoy this visit with Anne and Captain Wentworth as much as I did writing it! I appreciate your comment!

  17. James Michels
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    I have never had the chance to read Jane Austen’s Persuasion. However, I am a fan of the classics, and have also enjoyed Kelly Miller’s books Accusing Mr. Darcy and Death Takes a Holiday at Pemberley. Definitely looking forward to the release.

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thanks so much, James! I hope you will enjoy getting to know Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth through my book!

  18. Suzan Lauder
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    I’ve noted the recent number of readers asking for a Regency Persuasion variation, and it’s interesting that this one has a little D&E to sweeten the pot. The cover is fabulous, as usual for Janet Taylor’s covers. There’s so much feeling in there. In addition, it pays homage to Kelly’s last novel. Best of luck on your release, Kelly!

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much for your kind words, Suzan! You provide amazing support to your fellow authors and I appreciate you!

  19. Michelle David
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    P&P is my favorite but Persuasion is in second place. This looks very interesting and I am looking forward to reading the rest of it. Good luck 🍀

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much for your kind comment, Michelle! I think Persuasion is a second favorite of Jane Austen’s novels for many, and I’m grateful you are willing to give this story a try!

  20. Jen D
    |

    I have to admit Persuasion is not one of my favorite JA novels, but I especially love the characterizations of the many females (especially Mary Musgrove and Lady Russell). It is strange that I am not into the letter as many Janeites are, but I am more struck by Captain Wentworth’s small acts such as taking the young Musgroves off a weary Anne.

    I am quite excited to try a Persuasion variation, moreover. That excerpt is truly nice and romantic but with the hints of heartbreak that we know will happen in canon at the beginning. Thank you for posting this piece.

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you, Jen; I really appreciate your comment! I’m glad this story has piqued your interest, and I hope you will enjoy my treatment of both the female and male characters!

  21. Mary Coble
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    A gorgeous cover! I am looking forward to a non-P&P variation (though I do love them.) Best of luck Kelly.

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much, Mary, for your well-wishes! I am glad to hear you are open to a non-P&P variation! I hope you will enjoy Captive Hearts!

  22. Patty Edmisson
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    Persuasion is my second favorite of JA with Pride and Prejudice being the first. I am excited that they have been put together. I look forward to reading this book.

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thanks so much for your comment, Patty! I hope you will enjoy reading Captive Hearts and maybe even come away with a deeper appreciate for Persuasion!

  23. ForeverHis
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    Persuasion comes in 2nd for me of JA’s books–right after P&P. Since I enjoy the writing of Kelly Miller, i am looking forward to reading her new work. Congrats on publishing another book!

    • Kathleen Stone
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      I have never read Persuasion, but based on Kelly’s other works and this excerpt, I know Kelly is going to knock it out if the park! Very excited for her new book!

      • Kelly Miller
        |

        Thank you so much for your kind words, Kathleen! I appreciate your support!

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much for your support and well wishes, ForeverHis! I really appreciate your lovely comment!

  24. Grace Gibson
    |

    Just lovely, Kelly! Both the excerpt and the cover. Congratulations!

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much, Grace! Your kind words are much appreciated!

  25. Pam Hunter
    |

    This sounds lovely! I’m excited to read it! Thanks for the chance to win a copy.

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thanks so much, Pam! I appreciate your kind comment!

  26. Erica
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    Beautiful cover! Looking forward to the read !!

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you very much, Erica! I hope you will enjoy it!

  27. Hunter Quinn
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    Love the cover and love the excerpt – looking forward to reading it from cover to cover ! X

    • Kelly Miller
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      Thank you so much, Hunter! I really appreciate your kind support!

  28. Sheila L. Majczan
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    I have read Kelly’s other books and enjoyed them. Like Jeanne, I hated the film version which shows Anne running through Bath. Thanks for a chance to win. Good luck with this release and thanks for sharing.

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much for you kind comment, Sheila! I appreciate your well wishes! I hope you read Captive Hearts and find it to be a lot better than that 2007 film!

  29. Buturot
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    Congratulations Kelly for your new book. We are all captivated by the picture! The back cover – at first glance -I thought of either the lady passed out or passed away in the arms of her true love
    (oh, sorry I’m thinking of Romeo and Juliet)

    Anyway, I do love having Mr & Mrs Darcy in any story… Who else can share a second chance with the one he loves.

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      I’m so glad you like the cover, Buturot! I think it’s unique and perfect for the story! Your kind comment is much appreciated!

  30. SamH.
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    Congratulations on your new release!
    I am looking forward to reading it. I like a Persuasion /P&P mash-up and Persuasion is my favorite! I have the 1995 movie saved and watch it occasionally. Ciaran Hinds was so good, even if Rupert Penry-Jones was the technically more handsome.
    The cover is so neat, especially that it is along the genre of Accusing Mr. Darcy!

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thanks so much, Sam! I agree that Ciaran Hinds and Rupert Penry-Jones both portrayed Captain Wentworth wonderfully, despite how different they were in appearance and manner. This story is not so much a P&P/Persuasion mash-up, but a Persuasion variation with a couple of noteworthy guest appearances. I hope you enjoy it nevertheless! 🙂

  31. George
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    I love the idea of a variation of Persuasion, strangely neither this nor Pride and Prejudice is my favourite JA novel, that award goes to Northanger Abbey. I have only read Persuasion once, back in the 80s, not that I did not enjoy it, I love all JA novels and I really enjoy the style Kelly gives to her Pride and Prejudice variations very much in the spirit of Jane Austen herself, but with a far more modern approach. I look forward to reading Captive Hearts.

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much for your lovely comment, George! Northanger Abbey is an interesting first choice! I think that Henry Tilney is one of Jane Austen’s more underrated characters. I’d love to see another film version done one day soon! Meanwhile, I hope you will enjoy Captive Hearts!

      • George
        |

        I had no idea there was a film of Northanger Abbey! Thank you.

        • Kelly Miller
          |

          Oh, I’m sure you will enjoy the 2007 movie starring Felicity Jones and JJ Feild and written by Andrew Davies! There are other made for TV versions but I have not seen any of them.

  32. Lúthien84
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    I didn’t like Persuasion when I was in my teens after reading the brilliant Pride and Prejudice. As I grow older and experience many ups and downs in life, I started to change my mind and appreciate the story of second chance romance. I think the 2 movie adaptations definitely played a part too.

    From the excerpt, it seems that Wentworth is already a captain when he first met Anne. Correct me if I’m wrong but I don’t think that is what Jane Austen wrote. So I presume it is a deviation from canon right from the start. Nevertheless I look forward to reading it when it is published.

    On a side note, I think the cover is unique and I can see the same design concept brought over from Accusing Mr. Darcy.

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you for your comment, Luthien! Persuasion is a definitely a more mature story than some of Jane Austen’s other novels, so it makes sense that it did not resonate with you as strongly when you were a teen. I appreciate your question about Captain Wentworth’s title. I do not believe I am deviating from Canon in this instance: my understanding is that in 1806, Wentworth was a master and commander, not yet rated as a post-captain, but had been assigned as a captain on a sloop or a brig (a smaller ship than what a full or post-captain would get). He would have used the title of captain. By 1814, Wentworth had been promoted to post-captain.

  33. Sukanya Bora
    |

    Attractive and beautiful book cover. Excited to read another book by Kelly. I do not know much about Persuasion but Kelly’s Pride & Prejudice variations have been beautifully written so I’m sure this would be yet another finest book by her. I am excited to read this book and know more about Persuasion. Congratulations Kelly, sending you my best wishes from India 🙂

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much for your kind words, Sukanya! “Captive Hearts” is a complete story arc, so readers do not need to have any prior knowledge of Jane Austen’s Persuasion. I really appreciate your support!

  34. Carole in Canada
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    Love the cover, the premise and totally believe in ‘love at first sight’! I also love the 1995 adaptation with Ciaran Hinds and Amanda Root. Congratulations on ‘Captive Hearts’ and I do look forward to reading it. I would say that ‘Persuasion’ is my second favourite after ‘Pride & Prejudice’ so am tickled you have inserted the Darcy’s into the beginning of the book!

    • Kelly Miller
      |

      Thank you so much for your gracious comment, Carole! I hope you will enjoy the surprises I have in store with “Captive Hearts!”