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Jane Austen Cannot Marry
A comically offbeat, fish-out-of-water time travel novel set in Regency England and the
21st century Colorado Rockies. Nadine Finley is a scribe guardian from the future who
must play "un-matchmaker" to Jane Austen, a British naval officer, and the romance that
jeopardizes literary history.
Nadine has made the quantum commute to 1811 to stop Jane Austen from meeting and
marrying Captain Charles Gordon. The two of them share a romantic past, and if Nadine
fails in her mission, Jane will never get to London. The fledgling author will never get
her first book ready for publication. And if the novel is never readied for the presses,
Jane will never go back home and revise the manuscript that will eventually
become Pride and Prejudice. In short, disaster.
The mission instructions were plain and Jane Austen cannot marry.
Except...matters become extremely complicated when the scribe guardian’s own
romantic interest unintentionally follows her across the centuries to 1811.
Xander Nouri is a tech millionaire who is cheerfully unfamiliar with both history and
literature. He has also forged a life where he is insulated from the non-quantifiable
uncertainties of feelings and romance. In fact, the only time he let his guard down was
for three wildly unexpected days in Las Vegas when he allowed his heart to be fondled
and then stomped on by an elusive woman named Nadine. Xander lives in a world of
reason, facts, and data…none of which explain her appearance, dressed in period
clothing, in a coffin a mile from his secluded mountain home.
And her claim of time traveling doesn’t exactly compute.
It’s not long before sparks once again begin to fly between the former lovers. But Nadine
needs to get back to her mission before literary history is permanently damaged.
By the time she’s able to make the quantum leap back in time, Jane Austen and the
captain have already met again...and romance is brewing. To complicate matters, Xander
has made the trip, as well. And Xander is the unlikeliest "nerd-out-of-water" ever to land on Regency shores.
But that’s where the fun begins....
21st century Colorado Rockies. Nadine Finley is a scribe guardian from the future who
must play "un-matchmaker" to Jane Austen, a British naval officer, and the romance that
jeopardizes literary history.
Nadine has made the quantum commute to 1811 to stop Jane Austen from meeting and
marrying Captain Charles Gordon. The two of them share a romantic past, and if Nadine
fails in her mission, Jane will never get to London. The fledgling author will never get
her first book ready for publication. And if the novel is never readied for the presses,
Jane will never go back home and revise the manuscript that will eventually
become Pride and Prejudice. In short, disaster.
The mission instructions were plain and Jane Austen cannot marry.
Except...matters become extremely complicated when the scribe guardian’s own
romantic interest unintentionally follows her across the centuries to 1811.
Xander Nouri is a tech millionaire who is cheerfully unfamiliar with both history and
literature. He has also forged a life where he is insulated from the non-quantifiable
uncertainties of feelings and romance. In fact, the only time he let his guard down was
for three wildly unexpected days in Las Vegas when he allowed his heart to be fondled
and then stomped on by an elusive woman named Nadine. Xander lives in a world of
reason, facts, and data…none of which explain her appearance, dressed in period
clothing, in a coffin a mile from his secluded mountain home.
And her claim of time traveling doesn’t exactly compute.
It’s not long before sparks once again begin to fly between the former lovers. But Nadine
needs to get back to her mission before literary history is permanently damaged.
By the time she’s able to make the quantum leap back in time, Jane Austen and the
captain have already met again...and romance is brewing. To complicate matters, Xander
has made the trip, as well. And Xander is the unlikeliest "nerd-out-of-water" ever to land on Regency shores.
But that’s where the fun begins....
Audible Audio
First published October 11, 2022
20 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
About the author
May McGoldrick
588 books502 followersMay McGoldrick, Nik James, and Jan Coffey are pen names for USA Today bestselling authors Nikoo Kafi and Jim McGoldrick. Together, they have crafted over fifty fast-paced, conflict-filled historical, contemporary, and Western novels, and two works of nonfiction.
Nikoo’s education and training was in engineering. She worked in robotics and submarine shipbuilding. Before earning a PhD in sixteenth-century Scottish and English literature, Jim pursued a hundred and one jobs, including a decade in submarine construction.
Storytellers at heart, Nikoo and Jim were always searching for careers that gave them time for both family and writing. Then, after thirteen years of marriage, they recognized each other’s creative strengths. Nikoo is all about characters and feeling. Jim is about action and sense of place. Their first attempt in writing fiction together produced their award-winning novel, The Thistle and the Rose. Since then, their stories have touched the hearts and minds of millions of readers all over the world. Their work has been translated into over a dozen languages and counting.
Nikoo and Jim are four-time Rita Finalists and the winners of numerous awards for their writing, including the Daphne DeMaurier Award for Excellence, the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewers’ Choice Award, three NJRW Golden Leaf Awards, two Holt Medallions, and the Connecticut Press Club Award for Best Fiction.
The authors make their home in California.
Here is a complete catalogue of May McGoldrick, Nik James and Jan Coffey’s work, in chronological order.
Each book stands on its own.
MAY McGOLDRICK
Macpherson Clan Series
The Thistle and the Rose
A Midsummer Wedding (novella)
Angel of Skye
Heart of Gold
Beauty of the Mist
The Intended
Flame
Tess and the Highlander
The Dreamer (Highland Treasure)
The Enchantress (Highland Treasure)
The Firebrand (Highland Treasure)
Much Ado About Highlanders (Scottish Relic)
Taming the Highlander (Scottish Relic)
Tempest in the Highlands (Scottish Relic)
Arsenic and Old Armor
---
Pennington Family Series
The Promise
The Rebel
Borrowed Dreams
Captured Dreams
Dreams of Destiny
Romancing the Scot
It Happened in the Highlands
Sweet Home Highland Christmas (novella)
Sleepless in Scotland
Dearest Millie (novella)
How to Ditch a Duke (novella)
---
Royal Highlander Series
Highland Crown
Highland Jewel
Highland Sword
---
A Prince in the Pantry (novella)
Ghost of the Thames
---
Made in Heaven
Thanksgiving in Connecticut (novella)
NIK JAMES
The Winter Road (novella)
High Country Justice
Bullets and Silver
Silver Trail Christmas
JAN COFFEY
Trust Me Once
Twice Burned
Triple Threat
Fourth Victim
Five in a Row
Silent Waters
Cross Wired
The Janus Effect
The Puppet Master
Blind Eye
Road Kill
Mercy (novella)
Tropical Kiss
Aquarian
When the Mirror Cracks
NONFICTION
Marriage of Minds: Collaborative Fiction Writing
Step Write Up: Writing Exercises for 21st Century
---
Sign up for the May McGoldrick, Nik James, Jan Coffey Newsletter
https://www.maymcgoldrick.com/contact-us
---
Visit their author websites
www.MayMcGoldrick.com
www.NikJamesAuthor.com
www.JanCoffey.com
https://www.facebook.com/MayMcGoldrick/
https://twitter.com/MayMcGoldrick
https://www.instagram.com/maymcgoldrick/
Nikoo’s education and training was in engineering. She worked in robotics and submarine shipbuilding. Before earning a PhD in sixteenth-century Scottish and English literature, Jim pursued a hundred and one jobs, including a decade in submarine construction.
Storytellers at heart, Nikoo and Jim were always searching for careers that gave them time for both family and writing. Then, after thirteen years of marriage, they recognized each other’s creative strengths. Nikoo is all about characters and feeling. Jim is about action and sense of place. Their first attempt in writing fiction together produced their award-winning novel, The Thistle and the Rose. Since then, their stories have touched the hearts and minds of millions of readers all over the world. Their work has been translated into over a dozen languages and counting.
Nikoo and Jim are four-time Rita Finalists and the winners of numerous awards for their writing, including the Daphne DeMaurier Award for Excellence, the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewers’ Choice Award, three NJRW Golden Leaf Awards, two Holt Medallions, and the Connecticut Press Club Award for Best Fiction.
The authors make their home in California.
Here is a complete catalogue of May McGoldrick, Nik James and Jan Coffey’s work, in chronological order.
Each book stands on its own.
MAY McGOLDRICK
Macpherson Clan Series
The Thistle and the Rose
A Midsummer Wedding (novella)
Angel of Skye
Heart of Gold
Beauty of the Mist
The Intended
Flame
Tess and the Highlander
The Dreamer (Highland Treasure)
The Enchantress (Highland Treasure)
The Firebrand (Highland Treasure)
Much Ado About Highlanders (Scottish Relic)
Taming the Highlander (Scottish Relic)
Tempest in the Highlands (Scottish Relic)
Arsenic and Old Armor
---
Pennington Family Series
The Promise
The Rebel
Borrowed Dreams
Captured Dreams
Dreams of Destiny
Romancing the Scot
It Happened in the Highlands
Sweet Home Highland Christmas (novella)
Sleepless in Scotland
Dearest Millie (novella)
How to Ditch a Duke (novella)
---
Royal Highlander Series
Highland Crown
Highland Jewel
Highland Sword
---
A Prince in the Pantry (novella)
Ghost of the Thames
---
Made in Heaven
Thanksgiving in Connecticut (novella)
NIK JAMES
The Winter Road (novella)
High Country Justice
Bullets and Silver
Silver Trail Christmas
JAN COFFEY
Trust Me Once
Twice Burned
Triple Threat
Fourth Victim
Five in a Row
Silent Waters
Cross Wired
The Janus Effect
The Puppet Master
Blind Eye
Road Kill
Mercy (novella)
Tropical Kiss
Aquarian
When the Mirror Cracks
NONFICTION
Marriage of Minds: Collaborative Fiction Writing
Step Write Up: Writing Exercises for 21st Century
---
Sign up for the May McGoldrick, Nik James, Jan Coffey Newsletter
https://www.maymcgoldrick.com/contact-us
---
Visit their author websites
www.MayMcGoldrick.com
www.NikJamesAuthor.com
www.JanCoffey.com
https://www.facebook.com/MayMcGoldrick/
https://twitter.com/MayMcGoldrick
https://www.instagram.com/maymcgoldrick/
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 12, 2022
Mix together a modicum of SciFi, a dose of historical fiction, and a sweet love story that's not overdone, and what do you get? This delightful novel! I didn't read the description before I started reading which was to my advantage--it was fun to just sink into the story without any expectations.
Highly recommended!
Highly recommended!
November 14, 2022
Jane Austen Cannot Marry
May McGoldrick
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Mission was supposed to be simple: Jane Austen cannot marry.....what can go wrong?
Nadine has made the quantum commute to 1811 to stop Jane Austen from meeting and marrying Captain Charles Gordon. Jane and the Captian share a romantic past, and if Nadine fails at her mission, Jane will never get to London. The soon to be famous author will never get her first book ready for publication. Basically the Jane Austen we all know and love will never happen and that will be an absolute disaster.
Things get very complicated when Nadines own romantic intrest follows her (unintentionally) back to 1811.
Xander Nouri is a tech millionaire who is very unware of history and literature. He lives alone and likes it that way. He only let his guard down once and that was for three crazy days in Las Vegas that led him to the alter where he was sadly ditched. The woman that left him waiting at the alter was none other then Nadine. You see Xander is a man of facts and data....none of which explain why or how Nadine has shown up suddenly in a coffin, on the road, a mile from his home, and dressed in period clothing after leaving him at the alter.
It doesn't take long before the sparks that died out after Vegas are reignited and the former lovers begin to feel things for eachother again. But Nadine knows she has to get back to her mission before literary history will be damaged beyond repair. By the time Nadine is actually able to make the quantum leap back in time, Jane Austen and the Captain have already met again and their romance is heating up. To complicate matters it seems that somehow Xander has made the trip, as well. And Xander isn't exactly the type to fit in with the Regency era.
Oh my goodness what a book. May McGoldrick you wrote a fabulous time travel book. A book thats very different from the other time travel books I've read. I enjoyed this story so much. I don't know if I can even begin to explain how great this book is. This book is uniquely written and knowing what the author is going through makes it that much better. From the moment I opened this book until the moment I put it down, I was in my own little world. I can only say thank you to the author for taking the time to write such a lovely story even though they are going through their own battles. This story will sweep you up and make you feel like you are right there with the characters. You won't want to put it down.
May McGoldrick
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Mission was supposed to be simple: Jane Austen cannot marry.....what can go wrong?
Nadine has made the quantum commute to 1811 to stop Jane Austen from meeting and marrying Captain Charles Gordon. Jane and the Captian share a romantic past, and if Nadine fails at her mission, Jane will never get to London. The soon to be famous author will never get her first book ready for publication. Basically the Jane Austen we all know and love will never happen and that will be an absolute disaster.
Things get very complicated when Nadines own romantic intrest follows her (unintentionally) back to 1811.
Xander Nouri is a tech millionaire who is very unware of history and literature. He lives alone and likes it that way. He only let his guard down once and that was for three crazy days in Las Vegas that led him to the alter where he was sadly ditched. The woman that left him waiting at the alter was none other then Nadine. You see Xander is a man of facts and data....none of which explain why or how Nadine has shown up suddenly in a coffin, on the road, a mile from his home, and dressed in period clothing after leaving him at the alter.
It doesn't take long before the sparks that died out after Vegas are reignited and the former lovers begin to feel things for eachother again. But Nadine knows she has to get back to her mission before literary history will be damaged beyond repair. By the time Nadine is actually able to make the quantum leap back in time, Jane Austen and the Captain have already met again and their romance is heating up. To complicate matters it seems that somehow Xander has made the trip, as well. And Xander isn't exactly the type to fit in with the Regency era.
Oh my goodness what a book. May McGoldrick you wrote a fabulous time travel book. A book thats very different from the other time travel books I've read. I enjoyed this story so much. I don't know if I can even begin to explain how great this book is. This book is uniquely written and knowing what the author is going through makes it that much better. From the moment I opened this book until the moment I put it down, I was in my own little world. I can only say thank you to the author for taking the time to write such a lovely story even though they are going through their own battles. This story will sweep you up and make you feel like you are right there with the characters. You won't want to put it down.
November 5, 2022
Life as a Wrong Way Scribe Guardian💃💋
Time Travel Regency Era Historical Romance💕.
Nadine💃💋 starts out in an English Coastal town during the Regency period in 1811. As a time traveling scribe guardian, she is somehow transported via coffin to a mountain Road in Colorado to be found by Xander🐺, a restless but wealthy entrepreneur who has moved to the area. Funny though, they already know each other from a wild weekend in Vegas🎰 a few years ago. Weird, huh? I thought so.
The meeting on the road drags on forever as they stand outside talking in the freezing pouring rain☔ and in an avalanche area! They don't have enough sense to get out of the rain☔, let alone out of a slide area! Not a great beginning, and I'm not really a fan of time travel romances💕.
Nadine's💃💋 job is to slightly interfere with events in time to alter the circumstances so that history remains unchanged. She is a quantum leaper. The author has Nadine's presence in the 1811 Regency England village to prevent Jane Austen📚 from meeting a Captain there and ending her trip to live with her brother. Thus ending her writing career before it starts.
Plodding on....The book gets totally bogged down in details, minutiae. Because of this, it makes the book very long. Finally at about 63%, Nadine makes it back to 1811 England and her original job of stopping Jane Austen📚 from meeting the Captain.
Nadine💃💋 seems to be a screw up at her job. When she transfers through time she never ends up in the right place. One of her transfer errors is how she meets Xander🐺.
ARC Provided by Book 📚Funnel 🌀
This ebook is offered on Amazon📚 for $7.99
The book is well written and edited, it's just not something I would normally read.
Time Travel Regency Era Historical Romance💕.
Nadine💃💋 starts out in an English Coastal town during the Regency period in 1811. As a time traveling scribe guardian, she is somehow transported via coffin to a mountain Road in Colorado to be found by Xander🐺, a restless but wealthy entrepreneur who has moved to the area. Funny though, they already know each other from a wild weekend in Vegas🎰 a few years ago. Weird, huh? I thought so.
The meeting on the road drags on forever as they stand outside talking in the freezing pouring rain☔ and in an avalanche area! They don't have enough sense to get out of the rain☔, let alone out of a slide area! Not a great beginning, and I'm not really a fan of time travel romances💕.
Nadine's💃💋 job is to slightly interfere with events in time to alter the circumstances so that history remains unchanged. She is a quantum leaper. The author has Nadine's presence in the 1811 Regency England village to prevent Jane Austen📚 from meeting a Captain there and ending her trip to live with her brother. Thus ending her writing career before it starts.
Plodding on....The book gets totally bogged down in details, minutiae. Because of this, it makes the book very long. Finally at about 63%, Nadine makes it back to 1811 England and her original job of stopping Jane Austen📚 from meeting the Captain.
Nadine💃💋 seems to be a screw up at her job. When she transfers through time she never ends up in the right place. One of her transfer errors is how she meets Xander🐺.
ARC Provided by Book 📚Funnel 🌀
This ebook is offered on Amazon📚 for $7.99
The book is well written and edited, it's just not something I would normally read.
December 30, 2022
I've been a fan of May McGoldrick (re: Nikoo & Jim McGoldrick) for years and have read all their older historic romance novels. Once I discovered Christian historic fiction, I switched to reading (and writing) that genre. I was drawn to this book because it is on the less-"spicy" side (but too many f-bombs for my taste), it's a time-travel tale — which is a genre I'm writing now, and because purchasing this book is a financial benefit for Nikoo who was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time this year which may be incurable. All that being said, I was reminded why I've enjoyed their books so much — they are a talented team and write stories that intertwine real history with memorable fictional characters who don't always see eye-to-eye. Art imitates life in this story as our protagonist is also facing a major medical issue and has taken on the role of scribe guardian with the intent of not only saving priceless works of literature but extending her own life as well. This book was hard to put down as Nadine was constantly in jeopardy traveling between time and she had such an intense connection with Xander. Wasn't a fan of the gloomy outlook for life and the environment some 50 years from now. If scientists can figure out time travel, they'll certainly figure out how to deal with the environment and climate change... The ending of the story was somewhat ambiguous but it seems to makes sense as that's how things probably are in the author's life as well. My best to Nikoo as she continues her fight. Her life and work has made a difference in so many other people's lives, particularly mine, as I was inspired by her writing and style to become an historic fiction/romance author as well.
November 5, 2022
A stunning and beautifully written time travel novel unlike any other. Writing time travel novels are tricky. I've read many of them, but I have never read a historical time travel novel that is as complete and just makes sense as this one. Everything is so realistic, you don't question it.
Honestly, the authors (yes plural because behind the scenes both husband and wife write together) such as this nowadays are rare. While everyone else is pumping out novels that are a dime a dozen and might be 3-4 star quality, the McGoldricks pour their heart and soul (literally) into this masterpiece.
Nadine is a time traveler, a Scribe Guardian whose job is to preserve literary works and ensure that what needs to happen, happens. She didn't choose this job but she has to do it or else. Her latest mission is to prevent Jane Austen from falling in love so that her novels will get published and the world can read them. Relationships complicate things, especially her missions which is why she has never had them, until now. She met Xander two years ago but knew they could not be, now she reappears in his time, and that old spark returns. But just when she returns back to 1811 to complete her mission, she finds that he has somehow followed her. Now Nadine has to not only stop Jane Austen from falling in love, but she also has to save Xander from exposing them both in a time where they do not belong.
This is such a unique story. I applaud the authors for how much research and detail they have put into this story. From the descriptions of places and people, to things such as finding books written by Nik James in a store in Colorado. These details make this story so special. The relationships between the characters are so real and while this isn't a steamy romance, you can still feel the attraction between Xander and Nadine.
There is also the very personal connection for the author in dealing with cancer. The depiction of what patients with terminal illnesses are recruited for in the future time here actually made me cry. Because their description actually gave new life to these people, it gave them a new purpose for the greater good. For me having lost so many family and friends to cancer, it is so beautiful to think of their new mission in that way.
A good indicator of a great novel is how much work you don't get done because all that you want to do is read and read. And then, when thoughts and images stay with you for days after and you keep thinking about what you have read- that is a great novel.
I could go on and on gushing over this book but you really need to read it for yourself. I highly recommend this novel.
My personal thanks to the McGoldrick's for an advance copy but also for writing what you have and sharing tidbits of your personal journey with us readers.
Honestly, the authors (yes plural because behind the scenes both husband and wife write together) such as this nowadays are rare. While everyone else is pumping out novels that are a dime a dozen and might be 3-4 star quality, the McGoldricks pour their heart and soul (literally) into this masterpiece.
Nadine is a time traveler, a Scribe Guardian whose job is to preserve literary works and ensure that what needs to happen, happens. She didn't choose this job but she has to do it or else. Her latest mission is to prevent Jane Austen from falling in love so that her novels will get published and the world can read them. Relationships complicate things, especially her missions which is why she has never had them, until now. She met Xander two years ago but knew they could not be, now she reappears in his time, and that old spark returns. But just when she returns back to 1811 to complete her mission, she finds that he has somehow followed her. Now Nadine has to not only stop Jane Austen from falling in love, but she also has to save Xander from exposing them both in a time where they do not belong.
This is such a unique story. I applaud the authors for how much research and detail they have put into this story. From the descriptions of places and people, to things such as finding books written by Nik James in a store in Colorado. These details make this story so special. The relationships between the characters are so real and while this isn't a steamy romance, you can still feel the attraction between Xander and Nadine.
There is also the very personal connection for the author in dealing with cancer. The depiction of what patients with terminal illnesses are recruited for in the future time here actually made me cry. Because their description actually gave new life to these people, it gave them a new purpose for the greater good. For me having lost so many family and friends to cancer, it is so beautiful to think of their new mission in that way.
A good indicator of a great novel is how much work you don't get done because all that you want to do is read and read. And then, when thoughts and images stay with you for days after and you keep thinking about what you have read- that is a great novel.
I could go on and on gushing over this book but you really need to read it for yourself. I highly recommend this novel.
My personal thanks to the McGoldrick's for an advance copy but also for writing what you have and sharing tidbits of your personal journey with us readers.
December 2, 2022
4.5 Stars
Jane Austen Cannot Marry is a time travel romance with strong historical elements. Nadine Finley is a time traveler from the future whose job as a Scribe Guardian is to ensure that great works of literature actually are written. Her current assignment is to prevent Jane Austen from forming a romantic relationship that would stop her from pursuing her writing. Nadine is jolted from 1811 into the present day before she accomplishes her mission, right into the path of a former love interest. Xander Nouri lives alone in the mountains of Colorado and has never recovered from the disappearance of Nadine after their romantic tryst. When Nadine returns to Regency England to finish her mission she is shocked that Xander has followed her through time.
Fantasy readers seem to be able to do something that I struggle with – they can put aside the structures of reality and just enjoy the imaginary world of the story. That is the best way to enjoy Jane Austen Cannot Marry. It doesn’t have to be 100% logical for us to enjoy a well-written book full of fascinating information. Through Nadine and Xander we are able to “meet” Jane Austen and hear her story right from her lips. Nadine is drawn into Jane’s conflicting feelings to the point that Nadine is ambivalent about aspects of her mission. Meanwhile, the romance between Nadine and Xander continues to grow in spite of a major issue hanging over Nadine’s head.
Jane Austen Cannot Marry is a delightful, complicated story full of adventure and romance. Readers that are familiar with the McGoldricks (husband and wife writing team) will see much of the authors themselves in the book. Their love of history and literature is clear. Well-researched details of Jane Austen’s life are interspersed within the plot. Issues of mortality reflect a current struggle in the McGoldrick’s personal life.
As a reader that does not particularly enjoy time travel tales I was pleasantly surprised by the way I was drawn into the story. It was full of action and adventure as well as sentiment and romance. I never had any idea what was coming next. The McGoldicks have created an intriguing world and will be continuing the series in the near future. Jane Austen Cannot Marry allows readers to experience history through an action-packed romance. Terrific writing makes the unbelievable believable.
Jane Austen Cannot Marry is a time travel romance with strong historical elements. Nadine Finley is a time traveler from the future whose job as a Scribe Guardian is to ensure that great works of literature actually are written. Her current assignment is to prevent Jane Austen from forming a romantic relationship that would stop her from pursuing her writing. Nadine is jolted from 1811 into the present day before she accomplishes her mission, right into the path of a former love interest. Xander Nouri lives alone in the mountains of Colorado and has never recovered from the disappearance of Nadine after their romantic tryst. When Nadine returns to Regency England to finish her mission she is shocked that Xander has followed her through time.
Fantasy readers seem to be able to do something that I struggle with – they can put aside the structures of reality and just enjoy the imaginary world of the story. That is the best way to enjoy Jane Austen Cannot Marry. It doesn’t have to be 100% logical for us to enjoy a well-written book full of fascinating information. Through Nadine and Xander we are able to “meet” Jane Austen and hear her story right from her lips. Nadine is drawn into Jane’s conflicting feelings to the point that Nadine is ambivalent about aspects of her mission. Meanwhile, the romance between Nadine and Xander continues to grow in spite of a major issue hanging over Nadine’s head.
Jane Austen Cannot Marry is a delightful, complicated story full of adventure and romance. Readers that are familiar with the McGoldricks (husband and wife writing team) will see much of the authors themselves in the book. Their love of history and literature is clear. Well-researched details of Jane Austen’s life are interspersed within the plot. Issues of mortality reflect a current struggle in the McGoldrick’s personal life.
As a reader that does not particularly enjoy time travel tales I was pleasantly surprised by the way I was drawn into the story. It was full of action and adventure as well as sentiment and romance. I never had any idea what was coming next. The McGoldicks have created an intriguing world and will be continuing the series in the near future. Jane Austen Cannot Marry allows readers to experience history through an action-packed romance. Terrific writing makes the unbelievable believable.
November 3, 2022
Jane Austen Cannot Marry! by May McGoldrick
Witty wonderful second chance romance filled with life, love, and hope that had me thinking, caring, and hoping Nadine and Xander would find a way to be together through time.
What I liked:
* Xander Nouri: genuine, concrete thinker, good friend, charismatic, loves deeply, strongly drawn to Nadine Finley
* Nadine Finley: from the future, Scribe Guardian, dedicated to her work, cares deeply for Xander, has some obstacles to overcome
* Ken: Xander’s friend and business partner, soon-to-be father, deeply in love with his wife Donna
* Donna: pregnant, bonds with Nadine quickly, enjoyed seeing her with Nadine and how their time together impacted Nadine
* Deirdre: from 1811, mother, wife, supportive of Nadine
* Jane Austen being the focus of Nadine’s trip back in time – and how that all turned out
* The time travel element of the story and why it was so important to Nadine
* Thinking about how difficult life must have been in the 1800’s
* That the story drew me in, made me care, and feel I was there
* The complexity of the story as well as its warmth
* Wanting to find out what will happen in the future for Xander and Nadine
* That the story left me feeling hopeful on the last page
What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about the difficult choices some of the characters faced and wondering what I would have chosen if in their shoes
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Definitely
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Witty wonderful second chance romance filled with life, love, and hope that had me thinking, caring, and hoping Nadine and Xander would find a way to be together through time.
What I liked:
* Xander Nouri: genuine, concrete thinker, good friend, charismatic, loves deeply, strongly drawn to Nadine Finley
* Nadine Finley: from the future, Scribe Guardian, dedicated to her work, cares deeply for Xander, has some obstacles to overcome
* Ken: Xander’s friend and business partner, soon-to-be father, deeply in love with his wife Donna
* Donna: pregnant, bonds with Nadine quickly, enjoyed seeing her with Nadine and how their time together impacted Nadine
* Deirdre: from 1811, mother, wife, supportive of Nadine
* Jane Austen being the focus of Nadine’s trip back in time – and how that all turned out
* The time travel element of the story and why it was so important to Nadine
* Thinking about how difficult life must have been in the 1800’s
* That the story drew me in, made me care, and feel I was there
* The complexity of the story as well as its warmth
* Wanting to find out what will happen in the future for Xander and Nadine
* That the story left me feeling hopeful on the last page
What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about the difficult choices some of the characters faced and wondering what I would have chosen if in their shoes
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Definitely
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
November 11, 2022
This was an interesting read, it moved along at a good pace and had likeable characters in Nadine and Xander. The action takes place in Hythe and Colorado. Nadine and Xander had a short but meaningful relationship a few years previously and now they are back in touch through exceptional circumstances. I found the story that takes place in Hyde as the most interesting and how Xander coped with the experience. There was the mission that involved Jane Austen and the renewed relationship between Nadine and Xander. Would there possibly be a way they could be together? There was also the dilemma that Nadine faced about her mission. There were some heart felt moments, some humour and romance. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 4, 2022
UNIQUE! UNIQUE! UNIQUE!
I've never read a story like this one and my subject line doesn't do it justice. I felt I was part of the story because the characters are bigger than life. I was so immersed with this couple, that every bump and hill I journeyed with them.
This is a story that will stay will me for a long time because your work impacted my soul.
This is a clean story with lovemaking off page but has kisses. You will still feel an amazing connection to this couple and will not miss the steam.
Knowing one half of this writing team is dealing with cancer also made the story more endearing to me.
I usually don't read many time travel novels, but this one is a keeper. It has so many unique twits and such a different storyline that you don't usually get when you read this genre.
No cheating, ending not a cliffhanger but left me wanting to know more of their future. You'll feel like you're on a rollercoaster with this story with your emotions. Certainly not a cookie cutter! I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to decide to give it a try. I love their series Scottish Dream Trilogy too plus many others. Some crude words used.
I received ARC all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
I've never read a story like this one and my subject line doesn't do it justice. I felt I was part of the story because the characters are bigger than life. I was so immersed with this couple, that every bump and hill I journeyed with them.
This is a story that will stay will me for a long time because your work impacted my soul.
This is a clean story with lovemaking off page but has kisses. You will still feel an amazing connection to this couple and will not miss the steam.
Knowing one half of this writing team is dealing with cancer also made the story more endearing to me.
I usually don't read many time travel novels, but this one is a keeper. It has so many unique twits and such a different storyline that you don't usually get when you read this genre.
No cheating, ending not a cliffhanger but left me wanting to know more of their future. You'll feel like you're on a rollercoaster with this story with your emotions. Certainly not a cookie cutter! I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to decide to give it a try. I love their series Scottish Dream Trilogy too plus many others. Some crude words used.
I received ARC all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
May 1, 2023
Once again, enjoyed it till the open ending…
November 6, 2022
What a great story! I thought it was an awesome concept, the characters are great, and it was hard to put down. I especially enjoyed Xander's interactions with the people in the past and Nadine's confusion while in 2022.
Nadine is from the future and her job is to make sure things in the past happen correctly or prevent things from happening in order to keep things in the future on track. Yes, a bit of a Back to the Future kind of story. BUT during one of her trips in the past she meets Xander and the two have some explosive chemistry. Unfortunately, he doesn't believe Nadine about being a time traveler until he is accidentally transported to 1811 England. Nadine and Xander work together to complete Nadine's mission involving Jane Austen.
If you enjoy time traveling romance then I highly recommend this book. I received this as an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nadine is from the future and her job is to make sure things in the past happen correctly or prevent things from happening in order to keep things in the future on track. Yes, a bit of a Back to the Future kind of story. BUT during one of her trips in the past she meets Xander and the two have some explosive chemistry. Unfortunately, he doesn't believe Nadine about being a time traveler until he is accidentally transported to 1811 England. Nadine and Xander work together to complete Nadine's mission involving Jane Austen.
If you enjoy time traveling romance then I highly recommend this book. I received this as an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 6, 2022
This story is incredible! It moved me with love, time travel, new friendships, a glimpse into the future, and of course, Jane Austen. The strength of the writting of the characters and their story is encompassing of all emotions. I look forward to the next book in this series.
July 25, 2023
2.5 stars. This story is a rather enjoyable bit of fluff. It’s not serious time-travel lit, a lot is left unexplained, and the main idea is never fully developed.
May 5, 2024
The plot for this is bonkers but I enjoyed it!
Nadine is from the future who has to stop Jane Austen from falling in love with an old flame or P&P and other beloved classics won't get published...but her multi millionaire love interest from present day quantum leaps to the past with her. But not before she helps deliver a baby while stuck at a restaurant at the top of snowy mountain. 😅🤷
It was a wild ride but a great light hearted, page turner with great pace. Very insightful chats with Jane Austen but a rushed ending with alot of unanswered questions. Disappointingly it had zero spice to the love story.
📘Read for 'light hearted/funny' theme for Cochrane bookclub
2024 P&P themed book ranking so far...
Manga Classics: Pride and Prejudice
The Heiress: The Revelations of Anne de Bourgh
Mum's the Word
Debating Darcy
Allworld Online: Pride & Prejudice
Longbourn
The Mistress of Longbourn
Most Ardently
Jane Austen Cannot Marry
The Bad Miss Bennet
Pride, Prejudice and Poison
Dating Mr Darcy
Coming Up Roses
Eligible: A modern retelling of Pride & Prejudice
Nadine is from the future who has to stop Jane Austen from falling in love with an old flame or P&P and other beloved classics won't get published...but her multi millionaire love interest from present day quantum leaps to the past with her. But not before she helps deliver a baby while stuck at a restaurant at the top of snowy mountain. 😅🤷
It was a wild ride but a great light hearted, page turner with great pace. Very insightful chats with Jane Austen but a rushed ending with alot of unanswered questions. Disappointingly it had zero spice to the love story.
📘Read for 'light hearted/funny' theme for Cochrane bookclub
2024 P&P themed book ranking so far...
Manga Classics: Pride and Prejudice
The Heiress: The Revelations of Anne de Bourgh
Mum's the Word
Debating Darcy
Allworld Online: Pride & Prejudice
Longbourn
The Mistress of Longbourn
Most Ardently
Jane Austen Cannot Marry
The Bad Miss Bennet
Pride, Prejudice and Poison
Dating Mr Darcy
Coming Up Roses
Eligible: A modern retelling of Pride & Prejudice
February 11, 2023
Jane Austen Cannot Marry by May McGoldrick is everything that I love in a good book -- engaging characters, a thrilling plot, and excellent writing. I listened to the audiobook version of this story, which was narrated by Sonja Field. By the title itself, I wasn’t sure what to make of this novel; I only knew that I always enjoy listening to audiobooks from this phenomenal husband and wife writing team.
Essentially, this book is a time-travel romance with strong historical elements. The story begins with Nadine Finley, who is a time traveler from the future and whose job as a Scribe Guardian is to ensure that great works of literature are written. Her current assignment is to prevent Jane Austen from falling in love again with a certain navel officer (yes, shades of Persuasion immediately come to mind). If Jane Austen’s fondest for a former beau leads to marriage, it would prevent her from pursuing her writing and creating the six most beloved novels of all time.
Before Nadine can accomplish her assignment, she is swept from 1811 Regency England into the present day and placed in the path of Xander Nouri, an American billionaire who lives alone in the mountains of Colorado. Several years prior to this, Xander and Nadine experienced love at first sight and three amazing days together. Then suddenly, Nadine disappeared with no trace of where she went. Neither recovered from this.
When they meet again in the present day, Nadine attempts to tell Xander the truth about who she is and why she disappeared all those year ago. Needless to say he doesn’t believe her until he accidentally follows her back to 1811 (I couldn’t help but think that love will aways find a way, no matter time and space). Through Nadine and Xander we meet Jane Austen and get a glimpse into what made her such an amazing writer. Nadine eventually decides that Jane should make her own decision on whether or not she stays unmarried or rekindles the romance with her naval officer.
Afterwards, Nadine tries to explain to Xander why it is impossible for them to be together, and she forces him back to present day. Thankfully, the ending is wonderful leaving us with hope that there may be other adventures to come in the future!
Essentially, this book is a time-travel romance with strong historical elements. The story begins with Nadine Finley, who is a time traveler from the future and whose job as a Scribe Guardian is to ensure that great works of literature are written. Her current assignment is to prevent Jane Austen from falling in love again with a certain navel officer (yes, shades of Persuasion immediately come to mind). If Jane Austen’s fondest for a former beau leads to marriage, it would prevent her from pursuing her writing and creating the six most beloved novels of all time.
Before Nadine can accomplish her assignment, she is swept from 1811 Regency England into the present day and placed in the path of Xander Nouri, an American billionaire who lives alone in the mountains of Colorado. Several years prior to this, Xander and Nadine experienced love at first sight and three amazing days together. Then suddenly, Nadine disappeared with no trace of where she went. Neither recovered from this.
When they meet again in the present day, Nadine attempts to tell Xander the truth about who she is and why she disappeared all those year ago. Needless to say he doesn’t believe her until he accidentally follows her back to 1811 (I couldn’t help but think that love will aways find a way, no matter time and space). Through Nadine and Xander we meet Jane Austen and get a glimpse into what made her such an amazing writer. Nadine eventually decides that Jane should make her own decision on whether or not she stays unmarried or rekindles the romance with her naval officer.
Afterwards, Nadine tries to explain to Xander why it is impossible for them to be together, and she forces him back to present day. Thankfully, the ending is wonderful leaving us with hope that there may be other adventures to come in the future!
October 9, 2024
4,5 stars for Xander in 2022 and Nadine from 2078
This book mixes a woman from the future with a man from the present and they have to rescue a big part of world literature in 1811.
Nadine travels through time to prevent world literature from falling trough the roaster of unimportantness. During this missions she stranded in Las Vegas 2019 and had three unforgettable days with Xander. This time she unintentionally lands on his ground when she needs to shift on another mission. Same sparks and chemistry, same total of compatibility and still Nadine can't be with Xander forever. Xander learns in a very bodily way, that Nadine told him the truth about her job and whereabouts. Together they have to finish Nadine's mission. Two hea are on the line.
This story started a bit bumpy and I felt like it might take me ages to go through that medieval timetravel story. But once Xander found a coffin on the street, I couldn't put the book down. This story surprised me and made me swoon and cry. In the end I felt bereft because while it is a fast hea, it is one in the long run? I am hanging in here and wait for another chapter. 🫣👀😱
This book mixes a woman from the future with a man from the present and they have to rescue a big part of world literature in 1811.
Nadine travels through time to prevent world literature from falling trough the roaster of unimportantness. During this missions she stranded in Las Vegas 2019 and had three unforgettable days with Xander. This time she unintentionally lands on his ground when she needs to shift on another mission. Same sparks and chemistry, same total of compatibility and still Nadine can't be with Xander forever. Xander learns in a very bodily way, that Nadine told him the truth about her job and whereabouts. Together they have to finish Nadine's mission. Two hea are on the line.
This story started a bit bumpy and I felt like it might take me ages to go through that medieval timetravel story. But once Xander found a coffin on the street, I couldn't put the book down. This story surprised me and made me swoon and cry. In the end I felt bereft because while it is a fast hea, it is one in the long run? I am hanging in here and wait for another chapter. 🫣👀😱
January 26, 2023
Thank you to the authors for allowing me the chance to listen to this audiobook!
I loved this book. Part romance and part sci-fi. Nadine Finley is a time traveler from the future. Her job is to go to 1811 and make sure Jane Austen does not decide to marry her former “boyfriend”, not the right word, a navel officer. But will instead continue with her writing. Things get complicated when she travels to 2022 and meets up with former love. Xander Nouri is a retired self made multimillionaire and had met Nadine before in Las Vegas! She had left him at the alter because of her job. But now there is a second chance at love. But can they remain together? They are from different times.
Their relationship kind of mirrors Jane Austen and Captain Gordon’s in that they cannot be together. There are many sweet moments and some heartbreak.
The narration of this audiobook was wonderful.
I loved this book. Part romance and part sci-fi. Nadine Finley is a time traveler from the future. Her job is to go to 1811 and make sure Jane Austen does not decide to marry her former “boyfriend”, not the right word, a navel officer. But will instead continue with her writing. Things get complicated when she travels to 2022 and meets up with former love. Xander Nouri is a retired self made multimillionaire and had met Nadine before in Las Vegas! She had left him at the alter because of her job. But now there is a second chance at love. But can they remain together? They are from different times.
Their relationship kind of mirrors Jane Austen and Captain Gordon’s in that they cannot be together. There are many sweet moments and some heartbreak.
The narration of this audiobook was wonderful.
December 6, 2023
I wish I could rate the book higher but I can't get past all the glaring errors. The plot itself is acceptable but the authors claim to be Jane Austen fans, which doesn't mesh with the book.
1. Mr. Knightley's name (from EMMA) is misspelled multiple times.
2. Austen is traveling alone but her own letters say that she traveled with a male relative.
3. Austen says she's too old to bear children but her mother had two children ( including Jane herself) at a later age. Perhaps the fictional Austen went through early menopause but that's a big leap.
Overall, the book didn't read like the work of an experienced writer. 2.5 stars rounded to 2.
1. Mr. Knightley's name (from EMMA) is misspelled multiple times.
2. Austen is traveling alone but her own letters say that she traveled with a male relative.
3. Austen says she's too old to bear children but her mother had two children ( including Jane herself) at a later age. Perhaps the fictional Austen went through early menopause but that's a big leap.
Overall, the book didn't read like the work of an experienced writer. 2.5 stars rounded to 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2025
A fun what if story
I have the ebook and audiobook and they paired well. The narrator did excellent with the various voices not only across timelines but in accents and cultural. Having a human narrator makes the story even better.
In this book, we are in Jane Austen life and what would happen if she married and didn't publish her timeless stories. We travel with our main character as she tries to keep Jane from reconnecting with the man who could tempt her into marriage. Our main character has a love interest too but she knows that it cannot happen either. You will have to read to see what happens when both couples meet. It was a fun read/listen.
I have the ebook and audiobook and they paired well. The narrator did excellent with the various voices not only across timelines but in accents and cultural. Having a human narrator makes the story even better.
In this book, we are in Jane Austen life and what would happen if she married and didn't publish her timeless stories. We travel with our main character as she tries to keep Jane from reconnecting with the man who could tempt her into marriage. Our main character has a love interest too but she knows that it cannot happen either. You will have to read to see what happens when both couples meet. It was a fun read/listen.
February 5, 2023
Time Travel Romance with a twist
There is a great deal of depth to this romance, which on the surface seems a lighthearted time travel story. Instead it deals extensively with the theme of mortality, and what we choose to do with the time we have been given. The answers that three women come to along the way are diverse, but all are profound.
It’s also a lovely romance with good chemistry and misadventures to keep the reader enthralled.
There is a great deal of depth to this romance, which on the surface seems a lighthearted time travel story. Instead it deals extensively with the theme of mortality, and what we choose to do with the time we have been given. The answers that three women come to along the way are diverse, but all are profound.
It’s also a lovely romance with good chemistry and misadventures to keep the reader enthralled.
May 3, 2024
"Jane Austen Cannot Marry" is a timeless tale of love transcending the boundaries of time and space. Through the intertwining destinies of its protagonists, the story reminds us that true connection knows no bounds—it is the heart that reigns supreme. In a world where societal norms and expectations often dictate our paths, this book serves as a poignant reminder to follow the whispers of our hearts.
December 30, 2024
It is a book’s right to be as spicy or mild as it wishes, but I have never before read a sentence that so abruptly lurches past a sex scene. I’m paraphrasing but it basically reads “the kiss led to passionate sex,” and then moves on.
I enjoy the overall adventure of this book, even though it spends a lot more time in 2022 Colorado than I’d expect, given the title. But the two leads are boring simps who are terrible at communicating.
I enjoy the overall adventure of this book, even though it spends a lot more time in 2022 Colorado than I’d expect, given the title. But the two leads are boring simps who are terrible at communicating.
December 13, 2022
This is definitely on the top of one of my best read book this year! It’s a beautiful love story with mystery, romance, laughter, surprises, excitement, heartfelt moments and wonderful characters! I could not put it down! I did not want it to end. Very good!
February 5, 2023
I really enjoyed this story of a time traveler who sorts out Jane Austen's romantic life and deals with her own romantic challenges. Do be aware, however, there is profanity, and mentions of extramarital sex, though not in detail (both for the modern people, not Regency).
April 19, 2023
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book but was so pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed the premise and characters! A very easy and enjoyable read that was also thought-provoking. I look forward to other time traveling stories from this dynamic duo!
September 17, 2024
Enjoyable romance mixing a future time traveler jumping from 2078 to Jane Austen’s England to present day Colorado. It takes awhile to meet Jane, but she is presented as a fully dimensional character who reflects the serious dilemmas of women with limited choices in Regency England.
October 13, 2024
I really, really enjoyed this book. In fact I’d like to reread it now but others are waiting at the library and I don’t want to delay their enjoyment. So clever. So time appropriate. Such an interesting premise. I can’t say enough about it. Read it and enjoy.
November 2, 2022
Full review coming soon!
March 28, 2023
4.5 stars cool twist on a classic storyline. Love anything with Jane Austen growing up, I believe she might have been an interesting person to meet. Great job. 👍
August 5, 2023
Got a little preachy at points and I have soooooo many questions.
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