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A State of Jane
Meredith Schorr's second novel proves that chick lit, beyond just entertaining the reader, can also empower and inspire.
It's more about finding yourself than finding a man.
Jane Frank is ready to fall in love or so she thinks. It's been a year since her long-term relationship with Bob (who was not the one) ended and she is ready for some passion. With the LSAT coming up and her goals to ace law school and become a partner in her father's prestigious law firm penciled in her life plan, the only missing piece is the love of her life. The hunt is on, but there is just one All the guys in New York City are flakes. Interested one day and gone the next - dropping off the face of the earth with no warning and no explanation. Initially a firm believer that love will conquer all, Jane becomes jaded and cynical, debating whether to join her best friend Marissa in singlehood, making cupcakes and watching True Blood, or follow the advice of her co-worker Andrew and turn the game back on those who scorned her. As Jane attempts to juggle her own responsibilities and put up with the colorful problems of everyone around her, she realizes that having it all isn't all that easy, and even the best laid plans sometimes require revisions.
If you think you've read all that chick lit has to offer, think again as A State of Jane concludes with a curve-ball you don't see coming.
This is a new release of an edition originally published by Booktrope.
It's more about finding yourself than finding a man.
Jane Frank is ready to fall in love or so she thinks. It's been a year since her long-term relationship with Bob (who was not the one) ended and she is ready for some passion. With the LSAT coming up and her goals to ace law school and become a partner in her father's prestigious law firm penciled in her life plan, the only missing piece is the love of her life. The hunt is on, but there is just one All the guys in New York City are flakes. Interested one day and gone the next - dropping off the face of the earth with no warning and no explanation. Initially a firm believer that love will conquer all, Jane becomes jaded and cynical, debating whether to join her best friend Marissa in singlehood, making cupcakes and watching True Blood, or follow the advice of her co-worker Andrew and turn the game back on those who scorned her. As Jane attempts to juggle her own responsibilities and put up with the colorful problems of everyone around her, she realizes that having it all isn't all that easy, and even the best laid plans sometimes require revisions.
If you think you've read all that chick lit has to offer, think again as A State of Jane concludes with a curve-ball you don't see coming.
This is a new release of an edition originally published by Booktrope.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2012
30 people are currently reading
713 people want to read
About the author
Meredith Schorr
15 books959 followersA born and bred New Yorker and lifelong daydreamer, Meredith Schorr fueled her passion for writing everything from restaurant reviews, original birthday cards, and even work-related emails into a career penning romantic comedies. When she’s not writing books filled with grand gestures and hard-earned happily-ever-afters or working as a trademark paralegal, she’s most often reading, running, or watching TV…for research, of course.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
January 10, 2013
Meredith Schorr is now on tour with CLP Blog Tours and A State of Jane. Meredith quickly made it on my Authors to Watch list, and is someone I can even credit with being a “virtual” friend. I was very much looking forward to reading A State of Jane and sure enough – it did not disappoint! Our MC is Jane Frank, someone I easily connected with right off the bat. It helps we are around the same age (twenties) and that I could understand easily what Jane was going through in her dating life. She feels like she should be settled down already, but she just can’t seem to hold on to a guy long enough to get that far. The novel follows her through her dating disasters, the flakes of New York City, and Jane trying to date like a guy.
I laughed my way through this novel. Schorr brings some fabulous comedy to the pages, but she also brings an element of empathy to her characters. I liked that Jane was not perfect, and even got a little mad at her myself while reading. But that is what makes her a real character, and I think this book will be very relatable to a lot of readers. A must-read from Meredith Schorr!
**4.5 stars**
I laughed my way through this novel. Schorr brings some fabulous comedy to the pages, but she also brings an element of empathy to her characters. I liked that Jane was not perfect, and even got a little mad at her myself while reading. But that is what makes her a real character, and I think this book will be very relatable to a lot of readers. A must-read from Meredith Schorr!
**4.5 stars**
January 17, 2013
I went to college with this author and we once shared an apartment, however this does not make me biased! She has a true gift for developing real, memorable characters and her story lines are engaging and ultimately create an enjoyable reading experience!
January 22, 2013
DOES WHAT IT SAYS ON THE TIN - GREAT CHICKLIT!
I was given an Advance Review Copy of this book by the author and in exchange I am happy to offer an honest review.
I had loved the cover and the dippiness it supposed about the protagonist straight from the off.
I read this book over a few days and the highest accolade I can give it is that I put down my Marian Keyes' hardback in favour of reading this on Kindle.
Jane having split up with her previous partner, Bob, over a year ago, is now ready to start looking for Mr Right again. But she is too formulaic about it - has too fixed an idea of how it should happen. She forgets to register for a really important event, so caught up is she in finding Mr Right. She goes through a wide variety of Mr Wrongs along the way.
The most truthful thing I took away from this book and which I am sure many of us can relate to, whether now or in the past, is how you can become completely self-absorbed either in the search for that someone special, or when you finally find them, that you ignore everyone else around you, to the detriment of your platonic and familial relationships. Jane is really selfish for much of the novel. There are also hilarious escapades, such as becoming a daredevil and creating an alter-ego Frances, or unleashing a statement at her ex-boyfriend's housewarming party, which she immediately wishes she could take back. I particularly liked the scene with the old lady on the bus and the poignancy of how that related to sisters. There was one big twist right at the end, which I saw coming but with a different person and for different reasons, but twist there was and very well executed. There were also plenty of red herrings along the way and it was interesting to learn about Eharmony and how vetting a potential mate on these sites works.
Jane's relationships with her friends and work colleagues, also felt very real and seeing some of the roles reversed along the way and/or Jane taking some comments too literally only added to the enjoyment of the novel.
Good solid chicklit. Would be happy to read another by this author.
I was given an Advance Review Copy of this book by the author and in exchange I am happy to offer an honest review.
I had loved the cover and the dippiness it supposed about the protagonist straight from the off.
I read this book over a few days and the highest accolade I can give it is that I put down my Marian Keyes' hardback in favour of reading this on Kindle.
Jane having split up with her previous partner, Bob, over a year ago, is now ready to start looking for Mr Right again. But she is too formulaic about it - has too fixed an idea of how it should happen. She forgets to register for a really important event, so caught up is she in finding Mr Right. She goes through a wide variety of Mr Wrongs along the way.
The most truthful thing I took away from this book and which I am sure many of us can relate to, whether now or in the past, is how you can become completely self-absorbed either in the search for that someone special, or when you finally find them, that you ignore everyone else around you, to the detriment of your platonic and familial relationships. Jane is really selfish for much of the novel. There are also hilarious escapades, such as becoming a daredevil and creating an alter-ego Frances, or unleashing a statement at her ex-boyfriend's housewarming party, which she immediately wishes she could take back. I particularly liked the scene with the old lady on the bus and the poignancy of how that related to sisters. There was one big twist right at the end, which I saw coming but with a different person and for different reasons, but twist there was and very well executed. There were also plenty of red herrings along the way and it was interesting to learn about Eharmony and how vetting a potential mate on these sites works.
Jane's relationships with her friends and work colleagues, also felt very real and seeing some of the roles reversed along the way and/or Jane taking some comments too literally only added to the enjoyment of the novel.
Good solid chicklit. Would be happy to read another by this author.
September 27, 2012
Fitting to kick off 2013 with an absolutely fantastic book by the lovely Meredith Schorr. Jane Frank is tired of flaky guys that don't know how to handle relationships. So she decides to date like a man - love 'em and leave 'em. One little problem, though. Jane doesn't handle it very well. She alienates her family, her best friend, the people that are trying to be in her corner rooting for her and helping her. Jane is at time self absorbed, at times downright annoying, but she is always completely Jane. She breaks up with her "boring" boyfriend, Bob, in hopes of finding a more exciting Mr. Right. Unfortunately, Bob slipping happily into a new serious relationship is not what Jane expected to happen and her lack of a mate sends her on quite the loopy journey. Her hijinks that ensue are laugh out loud and you will be kept completely entertained as she meets man after man. A fun supporting cast, witty dialogues, an embarrassing strip tease, and an ending that you won't see coming will have you clamoring for more.
Meredith Schorr's debut novel, "Just Friends With Benefits", was full of sharp characters and vivid storytelling. Her talent does not fade with her second novel. Meredith writes characters that you want to hang out with, even when you want to smack them upside the head and yell at them to wake up. (Besides she is a Yankees fan and that means that she is pretty much amazing.)
Five stars and a guarantee that you will love this book are what I have to offer.
Meredith Schorr's debut novel, "Just Friends With Benefits", was full of sharp characters and vivid storytelling. Her talent does not fade with her second novel. Meredith writes characters that you want to hang out with, even when you want to smack them upside the head and yell at them to wake up. (Besides she is a Yankees fan and that means that she is pretty much amazing.)
Five stars and a guarantee that you will love this book are what I have to offer.
November 4, 2012
Jane Frank is such a fascinating character to follow. Her naivety at the beginning of the novel is absolutely astounding - a great setup for what's to come. I just have to say, I spent nearly five years navigating the dating scene as a single gal in NYC (except for those months I dated the Greek god, who tragically had to go back home (sigh)) and I knew Jane's optimism and confidence that she'd soon find The One was delusional. Seriously. Meredith Schorr did such an amazing job in creating these disastrous (for Jane) scenes that end up knocking her back into reality. At times, her antics were so out there, her reasoning so off, I cringed with embarrassment and wanted to jump into the story, grab her by the shoulders and shout, "Don't do it, Jane!"
And then things change. Jane's thought processes do a sort of 180. There are still plenty of deliciously disastrous "Don't do it, Jane!" moments, but they're completely different from the earlier ones. Hate to be vague here, but I don't want to run the risk of spoilers. I found myself really disliking Jane for a while. But it wasn't long before she won me back, thank goodness. As a character, Jane Frank is all about the extremes, and it was such a treat to watch her jumping feet first into so many different scenarios, trying so many different routes before finding the correct path. A fun, fabulous read!
And then things change. Jane's thought processes do a sort of 180. There are still plenty of deliciously disastrous "Don't do it, Jane!" moments, but they're completely different from the earlier ones. Hate to be vague here, but I don't want to run the risk of spoilers. I found myself really disliking Jane for a while. But it wasn't long before she won me back, thank goodness. As a character, Jane Frank is all about the extremes, and it was such a treat to watch her jumping feet first into so many different scenarios, trying so many different routes before finding the correct path. A fun, fabulous read!
December 8, 2012
A State of Jane takes me back to my days of dating in NYC. I laughed out loud as I was able to relate to so many of Jane's experiences. she is a fascinating, loveable character that reminds me of myself in a way. Never has a book been so relatable and so entertaining. I'm sure many women can relate to Jane and the woes of meeting Mr Right when the time is right. I know what I'll be getting everyone for Christmas this year...Married. Single. Dating. This book is for all to enjoy!! you've done it again, Meredith Schorr! Bravo!
October 10, 2012
I read this book in one sitting! This book is about the whirlwind year of Jane as she goes through several phases of finding out what she wants from life...metamorphosis!
October 25, 2012
Meredith Schorr has done it again, what a funny book! The dates that Jane went on bless her heart! I found myself laughing outloud several times! I can't wait to read her next book!
February 6, 2013
I finished reading A State of Jane by Meredith Schorr in the middle of the night while my five-year-old was sick with fever. After getting him back to sleep, I crawled under the covers with him, set the lighting on my Kindle to low and read. If he woke and needed me, I was by his side. Trust me, if I wasn’t enjoying the book, I would have spent that time sleeping in preparation for what was shaping up to be a weekend with a sick child. But I was enjoying the book, very much, and if my sweet little boy was going to be sick, what better way to pass the time at his bedside, then with a good book. Meredith, if you are reading this, thank you for writing A State of Jane. It captured my attention at a time when I was sick with worry and I welcomed the distraction.
While I was reading A State of Jane, the premise of the story reminded me of the popular HBO television series, Sex and the City, based on a collection of Candace Bushnell chick lit books that began with a book of the same title, Sex and the City. (For those of you new to the chick lit genre, other Candace Bushnell books include Four Blondes, The Carrie Diaries, Summer and the City. There are more, and I mention this here because many fans of the HBO series discovered chick lit fiction through these books.) At any rate, from a grammatical point of view, you will note the title of the HBO series and Bushnell book is not Sex in the City, rather, Sex and the City because they are about two separate things: (1) sex; and (2) New York City. It’s not about one singular thing: (1) sex in New York City; because New York City, its sights, sounds, and its unique impact on a single gal’s dating and sex-life is such a prominent story element that it deserves separate billing. In this same vein, A State of Jane by Meredith Schorr is not just a book about dating, but about New York City, because dating a guy in New York City is very different than say, dating a guy in Dubuque, Iowa. So it’s not a ‘dating on Main Street or any street’ tale, and it’s not an L.A. story, nor a courtship in Paris.
Which brings me to this: If you love chick lit books about dating and the single life, read this book. Likewise, if you love chick lit books set in the Big City, then read this book.
And, wait for it, wait for it . . . If you liked the critically acclaimed HBO series Sex and the City and/or you liked any of Candace Bushnell’s New York Times Best Selling books then you should read and discover Meredith Schorr’s A State of Jane. (Meredith, based on the success of the previous, I do believe you and Jane are in good company!)
But there are some pretty strong differences between the main character in Meredith Schorr’s A State of Jane and the characters in Sex and the City.
Jane Frank, the main character in Schorr’s book, is a smart, sweet girl who should be studying for the LSAT but instead embarks on a new life in the dating world of Manhattan (and Hoboken) after the break-up of a nine-year relationship with a great guy. She’s like Sandra Bullock; the girl next door; your college roommate. She waits a year before heading out into the singles jungle (very respectable) and while she does lose herself a bit during the whirlwind of her sex-capades, she does have a moral compass and does struggle with the ethics of her “behavior” (ah hem) during certain “interactions” (ah hem, again) in the book. This makes Jane a very likable character because she’s not simply sleeping around for the sake of sleeping around. You come to understand that on those delicious, necessary occasions, Jane had to have those experiences so she could learn and grow while traveling on her personal journey. I believe this is a key distinction to make between Jane Frank in A State of Jane and the characters shown on the HBO TV series who present themselves as far more liberal with their sexual identities and far more free with their bodies and quantities of partners.
Jane manages to blow herself up a bit (okay, a lot) with not just the male characters in the book, but the female characters as well. She is selfish in different ways and for different reasons with each character along her journey and she pays real consequences for her actions and has to atone for ignoring the needs of others when she becomes so self-absorbed she can’t see clearly until a chance encounter gives her much to think about. But is it too late for Jane? Can she mend broken fences? And will any of the dates she has (including Mr. Agentine Malbec, maybe, maybe not) pan out for Jane? Read A State of Jane to find out!
I wished for ten more pages at the end of the book and I definitely want Meredith Schorr to write a second book with Jane at the helm so I can check-in on my friend, Miss Jane Frank. I hung out with her one night when my son was sick and I wonder now how she’s doing. New York is such a brutal place.
- Julie Valerie
Disclaimer: A copy of the book was provided in exchange for an honest review. The complete book review can be found on my book blog: Chick Lit Chit Chat - a gleeful gallop through the chick lit genre found at julievalerie.com.
While I was reading A State of Jane, the premise of the story reminded me of the popular HBO television series, Sex and the City, based on a collection of Candace Bushnell chick lit books that began with a book of the same title, Sex and the City. (For those of you new to the chick lit genre, other Candace Bushnell books include Four Blondes, The Carrie Diaries, Summer and the City. There are more, and I mention this here because many fans of the HBO series discovered chick lit fiction through these books.) At any rate, from a grammatical point of view, you will note the title of the HBO series and Bushnell book is not Sex in the City, rather, Sex and the City because they are about two separate things: (1) sex; and (2) New York City. It’s not about one singular thing: (1) sex in New York City; because New York City, its sights, sounds, and its unique impact on a single gal’s dating and sex-life is such a prominent story element that it deserves separate billing. In this same vein, A State of Jane by Meredith Schorr is not just a book about dating, but about New York City, because dating a guy in New York City is very different than say, dating a guy in Dubuque, Iowa. So it’s not a ‘dating on Main Street or any street’ tale, and it’s not an L.A. story, nor a courtship in Paris.
Which brings me to this: If you love chick lit books about dating and the single life, read this book. Likewise, if you love chick lit books set in the Big City, then read this book.
And, wait for it, wait for it . . . If you liked the critically acclaimed HBO series Sex and the City and/or you liked any of Candace Bushnell’s New York Times Best Selling books then you should read and discover Meredith Schorr’s A State of Jane. (Meredith, based on the success of the previous, I do believe you and Jane are in good company!)
But there are some pretty strong differences between the main character in Meredith Schorr’s A State of Jane and the characters in Sex and the City.
Jane Frank, the main character in Schorr’s book, is a smart, sweet girl who should be studying for the LSAT but instead embarks on a new life in the dating world of Manhattan (and Hoboken) after the break-up of a nine-year relationship with a great guy. She’s like Sandra Bullock; the girl next door; your college roommate. She waits a year before heading out into the singles jungle (very respectable) and while she does lose herself a bit during the whirlwind of her sex-capades, she does have a moral compass and does struggle with the ethics of her “behavior” (ah hem) during certain “interactions” (ah hem, again) in the book. This makes Jane a very likable character because she’s not simply sleeping around for the sake of sleeping around. You come to understand that on those delicious, necessary occasions, Jane had to have those experiences so she could learn and grow while traveling on her personal journey. I believe this is a key distinction to make between Jane Frank in A State of Jane and the characters shown on the HBO TV series who present themselves as far more liberal with their sexual identities and far more free with their bodies and quantities of partners.
Jane manages to blow herself up a bit (okay, a lot) with not just the male characters in the book, but the female characters as well. She is selfish in different ways and for different reasons with each character along her journey and she pays real consequences for her actions and has to atone for ignoring the needs of others when she becomes so self-absorbed she can’t see clearly until a chance encounter gives her much to think about. But is it too late for Jane? Can she mend broken fences? And will any of the dates she has (including Mr. Agentine Malbec, maybe, maybe not) pan out for Jane? Read A State of Jane to find out!
I wished for ten more pages at the end of the book and I definitely want Meredith Schorr to write a second book with Jane at the helm so I can check-in on my friend, Miss Jane Frank. I hung out with her one night when my son was sick and I wonder now how she’s doing. New York is such a brutal place.
- Julie Valerie
Disclaimer: A copy of the book was provided in exchange for an honest review. The complete book review can be found on my book blog: Chick Lit Chit Chat - a gleeful gallop through the chick lit genre found at julievalerie.com.
January 16, 2013
A year to the date after she broke up with her long-time boyfriend Bob, twenty-six year old Jane Frank is ready to start dating again. Jane is on a mission, she wants to be settled in a committed relationship by the time she starts law school the following year, because she'll be too busy studying to meet anyone. From online dating to the local New York bars and everything in between, Jane finds out that finding Mr. Right isn't exactly as easy as she had thought it would be. So if you can't beat em, join em ... Jane decides to date like a man ... love em and leave em! But this way of finding the right guy isn't working out either ... so come along for the ride as Jane weaves her way through the variety of New York's eligible bachelors in search of Mr. Right.
Every now then I crave a story that will tickle my funny bone from cover to cover, and in A State of Jane, author Meredith Schorr has created a fun, laugh-out-loud, hilarious story that left me completely satisfied. Written in the first person narrative, Jane Frank takes the reader along for the ride on her journey into the crazy dating scene and the trial and tribulations that she encounters in her search for Mr. Right.
Author Meredith Schorr weaves a realistic tale of the frustrations of being single and looking for love. Jane is a hot mess but she is real with flaws and ideals, and the variety of guys she dates will leave you laughing and shaking your head in amusement. We can all relate to what it is like to be in the dating scene, and the variety of people we meet and have to weed out in order to find that special someone. Jane's adventure is thoroughly entertaining, as I followed along on her search there were times where I was cheering her on, but there were also times when I simply wanted to smack her upside the head and say "what were you thinking?"! Throughout her search, Jane lives and learns until she finally comes full circle and listens to her heart.
With a quirky cast of characters; witty dialogue and interactions; richly detailed description of the sights and sounds of NY and Hoboken, NJ; and a storyline that is written in a humorous and sassy style, A State of Jane is a witty true-to-life story that will not disappoint you, it is Chick Lit at it's very best!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tour.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Every now then I crave a story that will tickle my funny bone from cover to cover, and in A State of Jane, author Meredith Schorr has created a fun, laugh-out-loud, hilarious story that left me completely satisfied. Written in the first person narrative, Jane Frank takes the reader along for the ride on her journey into the crazy dating scene and the trial and tribulations that she encounters in her search for Mr. Right.
Author Meredith Schorr weaves a realistic tale of the frustrations of being single and looking for love. Jane is a hot mess but she is real with flaws and ideals, and the variety of guys she dates will leave you laughing and shaking your head in amusement. We can all relate to what it is like to be in the dating scene, and the variety of people we meet and have to weed out in order to find that special someone. Jane's adventure is thoroughly entertaining, as I followed along on her search there were times where I was cheering her on, but there were also times when I simply wanted to smack her upside the head and say "what were you thinking?"! Throughout her search, Jane lives and learns until she finally comes full circle and listens to her heart.
With a quirky cast of characters; witty dialogue and interactions; richly detailed description of the sights and sounds of NY and Hoboken, NJ; and a storyline that is written in a humorous and sassy style, A State of Jane is a witty true-to-life story that will not disappoint you, it is Chick Lit at it's very best!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tour.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
July 21, 2013
In this entertaining Chick Lit novel, aspiring attorney Jane Frank learns what a lot of us already know – Dating sucks and you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince. Problem is Jane’s already been with a prince – her first and only boyfriend, Bob, whom she broke up with after almost a decade together because she realized she wasn’t in love with him anymore. After a year-long sabbatical, she’s ready to jump back into the dating pool and she’s confident she won’t have any problem landing another great guy, one who’s handsome, successful, funny, willing to be monogamous . . . yeah, I know, fat chance, but I couldn’t help but admire Jane’s positive attitude and single-minded drive. She leaves no stone unturned in her search for Mr. Right – singles groups, online dating, club outings with friends. Unfortunately, the air gets let out of her romantic balloon pretty quickly. Frustrated and angry, Jane takes the advice of her caddish co-worker, Andrew, and starts dating like a man, undergoing a complete personality transformation in the process.
Jane’s dating woes and how they changed her felt authentic to me. I empathized with her and said, “Oh, Jane!” to my Kindle a lot when her “me” phase started to negatively affect not only her relationships with friends and family, but her future prospects for a career in law. The author did a great job in showing how Jane’s selfishness impacted her inner circle – supportive, fertility-challenged sister Claire, good-natured BFF Marissa, surprisingly sage, man-hungry roomie Lainie. These supporting characters were all well-defined, which is no small feat when a book is written from a first-person POV. Even the male characters, many of whom didn’t last on the page for long, were fully fleshed out and memorable. I’ve got to admit to having a soft spot in my heart for Jane’s ex, Bob. He seemed like such a sweetheart – kind, smart, considerate. I was hoping that Jane might find her way back to him. Did that happen? I’ll never tell. Pick up a copy of the book and see for yourself where (and with whom) Jane ends up. I liked that the author didn’t tie everything up in a neat, little bow in the last chapter, so there’s the possibility of a sequel. It would be interesting to see where Jane’s journey takes her next after all she’s experienced and learned in ASOJ.
This is the second Meredith Schorr book I’ve read and it’s great to see her evolution as a writer. I anxiously await the release of her next novel, BLOGGER GIRL, later this summer.
Jane’s dating woes and how they changed her felt authentic to me. I empathized with her and said, “Oh, Jane!” to my Kindle a lot when her “me” phase started to negatively affect not only her relationships with friends and family, but her future prospects for a career in law. The author did a great job in showing how Jane’s selfishness impacted her inner circle – supportive, fertility-challenged sister Claire, good-natured BFF Marissa, surprisingly sage, man-hungry roomie Lainie. These supporting characters were all well-defined, which is no small feat when a book is written from a first-person POV. Even the male characters, many of whom didn’t last on the page for long, were fully fleshed out and memorable. I’ve got to admit to having a soft spot in my heart for Jane’s ex, Bob. He seemed like such a sweetheart – kind, smart, considerate. I was hoping that Jane might find her way back to him. Did that happen? I’ll never tell. Pick up a copy of the book and see for yourself where (and with whom) Jane ends up. I liked that the author didn’t tie everything up in a neat, little bow in the last chapter, so there’s the possibility of a sequel. It would be interesting to see where Jane’s journey takes her next after all she’s experienced and learned in ASOJ.
This is the second Meredith Schorr book I’ve read and it’s great to see her evolution as a writer. I anxiously await the release of her next novel, BLOGGER GIRL, later this summer.
September 19, 2012
Meet Jane Frank. It’s been a year since her last (and only) long term relationship, and with reality looming large in the form of the LSAT, Jane decides it’s been far too long since she’s been kissed and that she’s ready to meet the man of her dreams. Meredith Schorr’s A State of Jane takes us through Jane’s adventures in dating. As she grows more frustrated with the online dating scene and the way men tend to flake out for no reason, Jane decides to take her friend Andrew’s advice about dating, and this is where our story really takes off.
Much the way she did in Just Friends With Benefits, Meredith Schorr gives us an all-too-recognizable heroine. OK, I’ve never gotten up to some of Jane’s antics, but there have been times when I’ve certainly wanted to. Certainly, navigating the dating terrain is not easy, and Schorr captures that feeling of “I don’t know why it went wrong” so perfectly. Of course, as interested but objective observers in Jane’s life, we can see the mistakes she’s making… which makes an interesting point about not being able to discern our own dating foibles, but I digress.
I confess that at times I got really frustrated with Jane. I can’t explain too much of why here, or else it would spoil the story, so I’ll say this about it: I didn’t like the way Jane treated people sometimes. For a few pages there, I frankly didn’t like Jane. However, Jane’s behavior is an integral part of her journey and she had to go through this stage to grow into her true self. That being said, I still wanted to shake her, and which made me again appreciate the authenticity of the friendships Meredith includes in her stories.
We tell our friends we want them to be honest with us. But sometimes, when they are, no matter how lovingly the message is delivered, we just don’t want to hear it. So in A State of Jane I thought the confrontations between Jane and her friends and the conflicts in their relationships were portrayed authentically. It is often the people we love the most who are also the people we hurt the most.
And the final thing I really liked about A State of Jane is the way that it ends. No spoilers here, but I felt the ending was perfect.
Chick lit fans- and fans of Just Friends With Benefits- will really enjoy A State of Jane.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Much the way she did in Just Friends With Benefits, Meredith Schorr gives us an all-too-recognizable heroine. OK, I’ve never gotten up to some of Jane’s antics, but there have been times when I’ve certainly wanted to. Certainly, navigating the dating terrain is not easy, and Schorr captures that feeling of “I don’t know why it went wrong” so perfectly. Of course, as interested but objective observers in Jane’s life, we can see the mistakes she’s making… which makes an interesting point about not being able to discern our own dating foibles, but I digress.
I confess that at times I got really frustrated with Jane. I can’t explain too much of why here, or else it would spoil the story, so I’ll say this about it: I didn’t like the way Jane treated people sometimes. For a few pages there, I frankly didn’t like Jane. However, Jane’s behavior is an integral part of her journey and she had to go through this stage to grow into her true self. That being said, I still wanted to shake her, and which made me again appreciate the authenticity of the friendships Meredith includes in her stories.
We tell our friends we want them to be honest with us. But sometimes, when they are, no matter how lovingly the message is delivered, we just don’t want to hear it. So in A State of Jane I thought the confrontations between Jane and her friends and the conflicts in their relationships were portrayed authentically. It is often the people we love the most who are also the people we hurt the most.
And the final thing I really liked about A State of Jane is the way that it ends. No spoilers here, but I felt the ending was perfect.
Chick lit fans- and fans of Just Friends With Benefits- will really enjoy A State of Jane.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2013
Meredith Schorr's entertaining, hand-wringing, nail-biting, rollicking new novel was a terrific story that most young single women can relate to but could not be so forthright telling. That's part of what made A STATE OF JANE engrossing--Jane Frank bares all. It's as if the reader is perched right over her shoulder, going on every date or more accurately at times hookup. Jane's life becomes particularly compelling once she secedes from her only serious relationship to brave being single for the first time since becoming an adult. And you're rooting for her secession--stripped from family expectations (pun intended), even from cubicle norms, because though Jane may not realize it, she's on a journey to find herself, a journey that's sometimes painful, sometimes sleezy, but ultimate revelatory. Any of us who has ever been stood up or put down or blown off can relate to this read. And if you can't relate, you can certainly empathize with flawed and funny Jane. Brava, Meredith Schorr, for making Jane such an authentic character. And for opening the door for a sequel. From which state will Jane secede next? Personally, I'm dying to find out.
January 2, 2013
I loved Meredith Schorr's Just Friends With Benefits because it reminded me so vividly of a particular time in my life and a girl I used to be. A State of Jane had the same amazing quality! Meredith has such a great knack for telling a story, I can literally taste the apple martinis as I read. I always feel like I'm a personal friend of the protagonist, along for the ride, experiencing hilarious and also poignant adventures in NYC singlehood as I fly through her books. Specifically here, Jane Frank was such an interesting character. Delightfully flawed. I really adored her and her earnest determination to try and control her destiny. She was wonderfully self-absorbed--and not in a horrible, dis-likeable way. I did feel like shaking her at times, but in the same way I wanted to shake Bridget Jones. Not because I didn't love her, but because I *truly* loved her. Even when she made me cringe. Which she did. A lot. But it was great! Highly recommended!
October 18, 2012
Just Friends With Benefits, Meredith Schorr's first novel, is one of my favorites, and I was so excited to read A State of Jane. Meredith Schorr did it again! She created a flawed, real and relatable main character whose emotional journey had me laughing and cringing in sympathy. The supporting cast of characters are fantastic, and I cannot wait to read more from this incredible author. A must read!
January 20, 2013
I designed the cover for this book, and boy am I proud! Jane’s journey into the single world is funny and endearing. Jane learns what it all means.
January 25, 2013
I really enjoyed this book, it was so true to life, how its difficult to pursue relationships in the real world, while traversing the do's and do not's. I highly recommend this!
September 19, 2019
This book was all over the place. The ending shock (or surprise) value gets lost in its hurried treatment.
May 22, 2013
Really great. Classic chicklit formula but read very refresh and new.
March 13, 2018
I heard a lot of good things about this author, yet this is the first time I've read one of her stories. Everything I've heard about her stories and characters are spot on.
Jane was a humorously flawed and understandable character who at times had you wondering what was she thinking. Aside from the "What the heck?!" moments, and her singular focus on finding Mr Right, at the detriment to others in her life, Jane was a relatable woman to many who have had the same agenda, with differing results.
This is definitely a Chick-Lit story that was fun to read and watch Jane's transformation and growth to finding her HEA.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Jane was a humorously flawed and understandable character who at times had you wondering what was she thinking. Aside from the "What the heck?!" moments, and her singular focus on finding Mr Right, at the detriment to others in her life, Jane was a relatable woman to many who have had the same agenda, with differing results.
This is definitely a Chick-Lit story that was fun to read and watch Jane's transformation and growth to finding her HEA.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
December 8, 2012
Most romantic stories are about a girl meeting a boy, falling in love and ending happily ever after. Or, if it's a chick lit novel, it's more like happily for now. Meredith Schorr's A State of Jane might seem like one of those stories at first, but it is much more than that.
One year to the day after breaking up with her high school sweetheart, a man she dated for nine years, Jane Frank decides she is ready to re-enter the dating world. Armed with an online dating profile, and ready to be matched based on however many character traits it takes, she is determined to meet the one.
After going on a series of failed dates, her dreams of finding the man of her dreams seems less and less possible. At the same time, she is supposed to be preparing for the LSATs so she can apply, and ultimately go, to law school.
With her life in disarray, and her future uncertain, Jane's life takes a frenzied twist of turns that jeopardize her relationships with family and friends, while also putting her carefully charted plans for love and career at risk.
Jane was a challenging character. Self-centered, overwhelming and surprisingly self-destructive, Jane ends up hurting her friends and family. Often, this girl was a hot mess, and I wanted to smack some sense into her. That should make her unlikeable, but she was not. Perhaps it was because her past was explained well enough or that the circumstances that lead to her meltdown often made her behavior justifiable. Whatever it was, while I frequently found myself frustrated with Jane.
I quickly realized my feelings were a result of me wanting her to get her life together, because I cared. Somehow, rather quickly, she became that friend who you love, but drives you crazy along the way.
The men she dates throughout the book were kind of a hoot to read. Some of them were losers on their own, and others were caught up in her web. That offered a fun mix of hating the bastards who screwed over Jane and feeling badly for the poor fools who got played by her. Her differing experiences with them created natural tension and made for an interesting story.
Jane's relationships with her friends and family members were also somewhat complicated and varying, which added elements of real life. I especially liked her interactions with her sister, because their connection seemed so true.
Jane's relationship with her ex-boyfriend was handled well. At first, I thought it seemed a little unbelievable -- too good to be true. But by the end, it also seemed more realistic (though I can't say why, because it would spoil the book). In fact, I know it's realistic, because I personally went through something kind of similar.
I also found myself fascinated by all of the food Jane made. She's quite the chef. This made for a fun, and somewhat unexpected plot element throughout the story.
Even though her mission seems impossible at times, A State of Jane truly is a story about finding love. That love may or may not be with a soulmate to grow old with in the suburbs, but part of it always comes down to finding love for yourself.
Originally posted at www.change-the-word.blogspot.com.
One year to the day after breaking up with her high school sweetheart, a man she dated for nine years, Jane Frank decides she is ready to re-enter the dating world. Armed with an online dating profile, and ready to be matched based on however many character traits it takes, she is determined to meet the one.
After going on a series of failed dates, her dreams of finding the man of her dreams seems less and less possible. At the same time, she is supposed to be preparing for the LSATs so she can apply, and ultimately go, to law school.
With her life in disarray, and her future uncertain, Jane's life takes a frenzied twist of turns that jeopardize her relationships with family and friends, while also putting her carefully charted plans for love and career at risk.
Jane was a challenging character. Self-centered, overwhelming and surprisingly self-destructive, Jane ends up hurting her friends and family. Often, this girl was a hot mess, and I wanted to smack some sense into her. That should make her unlikeable, but she was not. Perhaps it was because her past was explained well enough or that the circumstances that lead to her meltdown often made her behavior justifiable. Whatever it was, while I frequently found myself frustrated with Jane.
I quickly realized my feelings were a result of me wanting her to get her life together, because I cared. Somehow, rather quickly, she became that friend who you love, but drives you crazy along the way.
The men she dates throughout the book were kind of a hoot to read. Some of them were losers on their own, and others were caught up in her web. That offered a fun mix of hating the bastards who screwed over Jane and feeling badly for the poor fools who got played by her. Her differing experiences with them created natural tension and made for an interesting story.
Jane's relationships with her friends and family members were also somewhat complicated and varying, which added elements of real life. I especially liked her interactions with her sister, because their connection seemed so true.
Jane's relationship with her ex-boyfriend was handled well. At first, I thought it seemed a little unbelievable -- too good to be true. But by the end, it also seemed more realistic (though I can't say why, because it would spoil the book). In fact, I know it's realistic, because I personally went through something kind of similar.
I also found myself fascinated by all of the food Jane made. She's quite the chef. This made for a fun, and somewhat unexpected plot element throughout the story.
Even though her mission seems impossible at times, A State of Jane truly is a story about finding love. That love may or may not be with a soulmate to grow old with in the suburbs, but part of it always comes down to finding love for yourself.
Originally posted at www.change-the-word.blogspot.com.
March 12, 2013
Meredith Schorr's, A State of Jane, is a hilariously funny Chick Lit novel that I loved from beginning to end. I must confess that I have been on a Chick Lit bender lately, I can't seem to get enough of the lighthearted reads. I have found that when my life gets crazy insane, I tend to gravitate towards various Chick Lit novels to destress. And let me tell you, the novels I have been reading the last few months are doing the trick! Meredith Schorr's, A State of Jane, was no different- I picked it up to read and immediately was transported to present day New York City as Jane looked for love.
A State of Jane began a year after Jane broke up with her seemingly perfect boyfriend, Bob. After waiting a year to jump back into the dating scene, Jane decides that it is time to get back on the horse. How hard could finding a nice guy in NYC be, anyway? As readers discover, next to impossible! Jane finds herself in the midst of dating failure after failure with e-Harmony disasters, Sports Bar fiascoes, and Speed Dating craziness. As her relationship hopes are dashed with each loser guy she has the misfortune to meet, Jane starts to realize that she has been looking at dating all wrong. No longer did Jane want to be the sweet girl who was constantly loved and then left. Instead she would harden her heart and become the heart breaker, the dumper instead of the dumpee.
Meredith Schorr's, A State of Jane, had many hilarious dating scenarios as well as great scenes with her friends. I really liked Jane's roommate Lainie and the way she changed from the beginning of the novel to the end. A Southern Belle, Lainie moved to NYC and met Jane through a Craigslist 'Roommate Wanted' ad. Lainie is cynical about love but finds the dating world exciting. She is not looking for a relationship and is enjoying the perks of her single status. To Jane's shock, Lainie is constantly bringing a new man home with her. However, as Jane gets more discouraged about the dating scene, Lainie seems to find love without looking for it. This puts an odd stress on Jane and Lanie's relationship as they find their roles reversing.
Meredith Schorr's, A State of Jane, is a smile worthy and heartwarming read that is the perfect concoction for all Chick Lit lovers. I read A State of Jane in one evening while my husband was immersed in WWE (I definitely had the better evening!) I really enjoyed how Schorr ended the novel, not how I expected at all! I'm holding out hope that Schorr will be writing A State of Jane part 2 so that I can see what (and who!) Jane does next. Do yourself a favor and make time to enjoy this spunky novel!
**Booktrope has provided me with a complimentary copy of the book, A State of Jane, for the purpose of review. **
A State of Jane began a year after Jane broke up with her seemingly perfect boyfriend, Bob. After waiting a year to jump back into the dating scene, Jane decides that it is time to get back on the horse. How hard could finding a nice guy in NYC be, anyway? As readers discover, next to impossible! Jane finds herself in the midst of dating failure after failure with e-Harmony disasters, Sports Bar fiascoes, and Speed Dating craziness. As her relationship hopes are dashed with each loser guy she has the misfortune to meet, Jane starts to realize that she has been looking at dating all wrong. No longer did Jane want to be the sweet girl who was constantly loved and then left. Instead she would harden her heart and become the heart breaker, the dumper instead of the dumpee.
Meredith Schorr's, A State of Jane, had many hilarious dating scenarios as well as great scenes with her friends. I really liked Jane's roommate Lainie and the way she changed from the beginning of the novel to the end. A Southern Belle, Lainie moved to NYC and met Jane through a Craigslist 'Roommate Wanted' ad. Lainie is cynical about love but finds the dating world exciting. She is not looking for a relationship and is enjoying the perks of her single status. To Jane's shock, Lainie is constantly bringing a new man home with her. However, as Jane gets more discouraged about the dating scene, Lainie seems to find love without looking for it. This puts an odd stress on Jane and Lanie's relationship as they find their roles reversing.
Meredith Schorr's, A State of Jane, is a smile worthy and heartwarming read that is the perfect concoction for all Chick Lit lovers. I read A State of Jane in one evening while my husband was immersed in WWE (I definitely had the better evening!) I really enjoyed how Schorr ended the novel, not how I expected at all! I'm holding out hope that Schorr will be writing A State of Jane part 2 so that I can see what (and who!) Jane does next. Do yourself a favor and make time to enjoy this spunky novel!
**Booktrope has provided me with a complimentary copy of the book, A State of Jane, for the purpose of review. **
July 7, 2015
Jane Frank is a 26 year old looking for love in New York City. She recently got out of a 9 year relationship with her high school sweetheart, with whom she was no longer in love. Having had only one boyfriend her whole life (and an awesome one at that), Jane is shocked and dismayed upon entering the dating scene and realizing that men can be jerks and love is hard to find. Along with her many disastrous dates, Jane is dealing with preparations for the LSAT and law school, all of which is causing Jane to neglect her family and friends a bit, and turning her into someone she isn’t. Jane just wants to find love and happiness without sacrificing who she is and what she stands for, but the journey there is tough, she soon discovers!
Wow! I really loved this book! After reading and thoroughly enjoying Schorr’s first novel, Just Friends With Benefits, I was very anxious to read her latest and was not disappointed at all. In fact, I may have even liked this novel better than the first, though both were completely awesome.
Let’s start with Jane. Jane was pretty much desperate to fall in love to the point where she was becoming self-centered and seriously pissing off her friends. While I was irritated by her behavior, I was glad to see a flawed character who wasn’t perfect all the time, and whose life wasn’t perfect either. She was a very realistic and relatable character, which I really appreciated. I also appreciated that she wasn’t a size 2, either! I think all women can relate to Jane, an imperfect woman, looking for love and happiness.
In addition to Jane, I also loved the setting – New York City – one of my favorite places in the world, and I could totally envision Jane’s apartment and environment. I loved escaping into Jane’s world for a bit, and experiencing her ups and downs in her search for love and self. I loved the humor and lightness of the story, and would gladly escape into Jane’s world again!
If you’re a fan of chick-lit, imperfect heroines, and just darn good stories, I highly recommend you read A State of Jane. Meredith Schorr has definitely become an auto-read author for me and I anxiously await her next novel!
Note: I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! I really loved this book! After reading and thoroughly enjoying Schorr’s first novel, Just Friends With Benefits, I was very anxious to read her latest and was not disappointed at all. In fact, I may have even liked this novel better than the first, though both were completely awesome.
Let’s start with Jane. Jane was pretty much desperate to fall in love to the point where she was becoming self-centered and seriously pissing off her friends. While I was irritated by her behavior, I was glad to see a flawed character who wasn’t perfect all the time, and whose life wasn’t perfect either. She was a very realistic and relatable character, which I really appreciated. I also appreciated that she wasn’t a size 2, either! I think all women can relate to Jane, an imperfect woman, looking for love and happiness.
In addition to Jane, I also loved the setting – New York City – one of my favorite places in the world, and I could totally envision Jane’s apartment and environment. I loved escaping into Jane’s world for a bit, and experiencing her ups and downs in her search for love and self. I loved the humor and lightness of the story, and would gladly escape into Jane’s world again!
If you’re a fan of chick-lit, imperfect heroines, and just darn good stories, I highly recommend you read A State of Jane. Meredith Schorr has definitely become an auto-read author for me and I anxiously await her next novel!
Note: I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2013
Did I enjoy this book: I did enjoy this book. It was a fairly quick chick lit read that I read every free chance I had. I finished this book in just over a day.
The main character, Jane, reminded me of most twenty-something women who are still single. They want to find "the one" and will look at every date as the potential "one". We have all done that, we have all waited for "the one" to appear. That made her very relatable for this reader...and probably for most readers. Sometimes, I found Jane to be naive, childish, and rather self-absorbed but I also found her to be funny and just trying to find her path. There were times where she just rubbed me the wrong way and I wanted to yell at her to stop being so UGH! Then, there were times where I was rooting for her and wanting her to get things right. Her career path was another obstacle she had to overcome to help her find peace and happiness for herself.
The remaining cast of characters were all great and really added to the overall story. The reader can relate to these characters as well as with Jane. Lainie was a great roommate and new friend for Jane. She was the "pot" to Jane's "kettle" in some ways. Marissa, the long time BFF, was like most best friends...even when she gets left behind, she is there for her friend when it matters the most. Their friendship is one that survives even the rockiest of patches. Andrew, Jane's officemate, was funny. Jane and Andrew were funny together and good friends. He gave her some good, and some not-so-good, advice.
All-in-all, a good story with a good ending.
Would I recommend it: I would recommend this book. It was a good chick lit read.
Will I read it again: Probably not. But Ms. Schorr is on my "must read author" list!
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2012/11/a-...
The main character, Jane, reminded me of most twenty-something women who are still single. They want to find "the one" and will look at every date as the potential "one". We have all done that, we have all waited for "the one" to appear. That made her very relatable for this reader...and probably for most readers. Sometimes, I found Jane to be naive, childish, and rather self-absorbed but I also found her to be funny and just trying to find her path. There were times where she just rubbed me the wrong way and I wanted to yell at her to stop being so UGH! Then, there were times where I was rooting for her and wanting her to get things right. Her career path was another obstacle she had to overcome to help her find peace and happiness for herself.
The remaining cast of characters were all great and really added to the overall story. The reader can relate to these characters as well as with Jane. Lainie was a great roommate and new friend for Jane. She was the "pot" to Jane's "kettle" in some ways. Marissa, the long time BFF, was like most best friends...even when she gets left behind, she is there for her friend when it matters the most. Their friendship is one that survives even the rockiest of patches. Andrew, Jane's officemate, was funny. Jane and Andrew were funny together and good friends. He gave her some good, and some not-so-good, advice.
All-in-all, a good story with a good ending.
Would I recommend it: I would recommend this book. It was a good chick lit read.
Will I read it again: Probably not. But Ms. Schorr is on my "must read author" list!
(I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2012/11/a-...
September 2, 2013
WISE AND WITTY, THIS IS A WONDERFUL READ!
Tired of the same-old same-old tiresome tedious read when it comes to the world of chick-lit? Looking for something an intelligent woman can wrap her arms and brain around? Your search is over, for A STATE OF JANE delivers on every count. The novel, told exclusively from the heroine Jane’s point of view, takes the reader along for a romp through the streets (and sometimes the bedrooms) of Manhattan as Jane searches for true love. It’s not an easy journey, for Jane has plenty of issues to deal with. Her father expects her to sail through the LSATs, earn her Juris Doctorate degree and join him as a partner in his law firm. Her family expects her to find a man, settle down, and provide them with plenty of babies to dote on. Her friends expect her to take their advice so she can win the man of her dreams. And what does Jane expect? That’s where the true journey of this book begins, as Jane starts down the path to discover exactly who and what she is all about.
Meredith Schorr is a truly talented author with a wickedly witty voice that immediately hooks the reader. She has a talent for portraying true-to-life characters who find themselves landing in true-to-life situations. Schorr is smart and savvy when it comes to her writing, and she doesn’t pull punches. There were times that I found myself agonizing and angsting over Jane’s dilemmas, and other times wanting to shout at her to get her act together. But just as in life, Jane’s journey is her own, and demands its own timeline. Unlike other authors who twist and turn their characters into rigid cardboard cartoon characters, Schorr brilliantly allows Jane free reign to make the mistakes that ultimately lead to a perfect ending. Kudos to Meredith Schorr for having crafted such a clever read!
Tired of the same-old same-old tiresome tedious read when it comes to the world of chick-lit? Looking for something an intelligent woman can wrap her arms and brain around? Your search is over, for A STATE OF JANE delivers on every count. The novel, told exclusively from the heroine Jane’s point of view, takes the reader along for a romp through the streets (and sometimes the bedrooms) of Manhattan as Jane searches for true love. It’s not an easy journey, for Jane has plenty of issues to deal with. Her father expects her to sail through the LSATs, earn her Juris Doctorate degree and join him as a partner in his law firm. Her family expects her to find a man, settle down, and provide them with plenty of babies to dote on. Her friends expect her to take their advice so she can win the man of her dreams. And what does Jane expect? That’s where the true journey of this book begins, as Jane starts down the path to discover exactly who and what she is all about.
Meredith Schorr is a truly talented author with a wickedly witty voice that immediately hooks the reader. She has a talent for portraying true-to-life characters who find themselves landing in true-to-life situations. Schorr is smart and savvy when it comes to her writing, and she doesn’t pull punches. There were times that I found myself agonizing and angsting over Jane’s dilemmas, and other times wanting to shout at her to get her act together. But just as in life, Jane’s journey is her own, and demands its own timeline. Unlike other authors who twist and turn their characters into rigid cardboard cartoon characters, Schorr brilliantly allows Jane free reign to make the mistakes that ultimately lead to a perfect ending. Kudos to Meredith Schorr for having crafted such a clever read!
January 20, 2013
Jane was a hilariously entertaining main character. I have to admit that it took me awhile to warm up to her simply because she was being a bit of a twit. But I really cared about her and desperately wanted things to work out for her. Then I realized that it was not the first time I had been conflicted about a heroine like this. A State of Jane has a very similar feel to the novels by Sophie Kinsella - there are well meaning (if irritating) characters, an entertaining storyline, and a lovely mix of romance and life issues. Becky Bloomwood, the main character in the Confessions of a Shopaholic series, drives me crazy but I keep reading the series because I care about her and want her to be happy. Long story short - if you're a fan of Kinsella's work, I highly recommend A State of Jane.
The only little problem I had with this novel was the ending. I finished this a little while ago and I'm still not entirely sure how things ended up. I liked that there was an epilogue but the letter from Jane didn't quite give me the closure and understanding that I needed.
I did, however, really like that Jane's life wasn't just about men and dating. Sure, the bulk of the novel focuses on her search for a non-flakey male in NYC but there's also a sub-plot of Jane studying for the LSAT and figuring out exactly what she wants in life. This is the mark of a good chick lit novel - when the heroine has more going on than romance.
Overall, A State of Jane by Meredith Schorr was an incredibly enjoyable novel. I think chick lit lovers of all kinds will also like this novel and I definitely recommend it. Now that I've enjoyed this book, I will be checking out her debut novel, Just Friends with Benefits, a lot sooner than I thought I would!
The only little problem I had with this novel was the ending. I finished this a little while ago and I'm still not entirely sure how things ended up. I liked that there was an epilogue but the letter from Jane didn't quite give me the closure and understanding that I needed.
I did, however, really like that Jane's life wasn't just about men and dating. Sure, the bulk of the novel focuses on her search for a non-flakey male in NYC but there's also a sub-plot of Jane studying for the LSAT and figuring out exactly what she wants in life. This is the mark of a good chick lit novel - when the heroine has more going on than romance.
Overall, A State of Jane by Meredith Schorr was an incredibly enjoyable novel. I think chick lit lovers of all kinds will also like this novel and I definitely recommend it. Now that I've enjoyed this book, I will be checking out her debut novel, Just Friends with Benefits, a lot sooner than I thought I would!
June 19, 2013
In Meredith Schorr's A STATE OF JANE, Jane Alexis Frank's perfect "Ann Taylored" life has come to a screeching halt and it's going to go from bad to worse before getting any better. After breaking up with her only boyfriend, Bob, 26-year old Jane has "healed" after a one-year self-imposed date free hiatus and now she's ready to get back into the game! She's cynical about the New York City dating landscape, but pretty good at putting a positive spin on things!
"I just want to be settled in a committed relationship by the time I start law school next year, where I'll be too busy studying to meet anyone."
Get ready to see Jane date a lot. See Jane date Randall. See Jane date Jim. See Jane meet Cory for Mexican at Dave & Busters. See Jane date Todd and have a quickie with "Buddy." Pretty soon readers are wondering if there are any men left in NYC that Jane hasn't dated or slept with. For a while Jane decides to follow the credo of her co-worker, Andrew, "nail 'em and leave 'em" which does nothing to make Jane appealing. Many women reading A STATE OF JANE will recognize their own crazy period of zealous dating - well, maybe not to this extent.
Anyway, Jane goes through an incredibly self-absorbed patch in which she does just about everything possible to push her friends and family away. But Jane is in her 20's and has a talent to cook, especially sweet treats, so we'll forgive her for some of her more annoying behavior, because after all, there is a little bit of Jane in all of us. Thankfully, the people we love most, stick by us through thick and thin.
The character I love best is Jane's Dad - what a sweetheart! Dad is kind, understanding and surrounded by so much estrogen I wondered why he stayed around all the time! What a mensch!
"I just want to be settled in a committed relationship by the time I start law school next year, where I'll be too busy studying to meet anyone."
Get ready to see Jane date a lot. See Jane date Randall. See Jane date Jim. See Jane meet Cory for Mexican at Dave & Busters. See Jane date Todd and have a quickie with "Buddy." Pretty soon readers are wondering if there are any men left in NYC that Jane hasn't dated or slept with. For a while Jane decides to follow the credo of her co-worker, Andrew, "nail 'em and leave 'em" which does nothing to make Jane appealing. Many women reading A STATE OF JANE will recognize their own crazy period of zealous dating - well, maybe not to this extent.
Anyway, Jane goes through an incredibly self-absorbed patch in which she does just about everything possible to push her friends and family away. But Jane is in her 20's and has a talent to cook, especially sweet treats, so we'll forgive her for some of her more annoying behavior, because after all, there is a little bit of Jane in all of us. Thankfully, the people we love most, stick by us through thick and thin.
The character I love best is Jane's Dad - what a sweetheart! Dad is kind, understanding and surrounded by so much estrogen I wondered why he stayed around all the time! What a mensch!
January 1, 2015
Continuing my love for Meredith Schorr, I started on A State of Jane immediately after finishing Blogger Girl. I'd heard many grumblings, and heard about some not-so-nice reviews and I had to read this book - because I loved Blogger Girl and because I just had to see what all the fuss was about.
I was not disappointed and I have to say that A State of Jane is one of my favorite books! I love that Jane is so much fun. That she is willing - no matter how many times she was trampled on - to get up, brush herself off and try again. That she had so much to learn and you could see her growth throughout the book, in very tangible ways.
When Jane decided to take back her life, to study for the LSAT, to relax on the dating scene and to heal the rifts in her relationships with her family and friends, I was thrilled. I knew then that nothing would stop Jane and that she could and would achieve whatever she set her mind to.
The characters were very well done and so well developed that I knew what they were going to say and do before they did it. I love that. I love reading a book and getting to know the characters so well that it's like you have a new set of friends. And they were so realistic! Their actions, emotions, thoughts - you knew that it could happen that way. That old friends could have enough and walk away. That new friends could give you advice, but disagree with how you put their advice into practice. That family can be disappointed in your choices, but still love you.
The ending? Well, you have to read it for yourself. But I will say that it was unequivocally the best ending I've read in a long time! Ms. Schorr did a fabulous job staying true to the character and knowing exactly what Jane needed. Well done, so very well done!
I was not disappointed and I have to say that A State of Jane is one of my favorite books! I love that Jane is so much fun. That she is willing - no matter how many times she was trampled on - to get up, brush herself off and try again. That she had so much to learn and you could see her growth throughout the book, in very tangible ways.
When Jane decided to take back her life, to study for the LSAT, to relax on the dating scene and to heal the rifts in her relationships with her family and friends, I was thrilled. I knew then that nothing would stop Jane and that she could and would achieve whatever she set her mind to.
The characters were very well done and so well developed that I knew what they were going to say and do before they did it. I love that. I love reading a book and getting to know the characters so well that it's like you have a new set of friends. And they were so realistic! Their actions, emotions, thoughts - you knew that it could happen that way. That old friends could have enough and walk away. That new friends could give you advice, but disagree with how you put their advice into practice. That family can be disappointed in your choices, but still love you.
The ending? Well, you have to read it for yourself. But I will say that it was unequivocally the best ending I've read in a long time! Ms. Schorr did a fabulous job staying true to the character and knowing exactly what Jane needed. Well done, so very well done!
April 12, 2014
In "State of Jane", by author Meredith Schorr, on the one year anniversary of the end of her 9 year relationship, Jane Frank decides she’s ready to get back out there. But to make matters more urgent, she learns her ex has moved on and at a decidedly faster pace than she would have deemed possible—and she broke it off with him! Plus, her family is expecting her to be studying for her LSAT and thus she finds herself in limbo which is neither satisfactory or where she thought she would be at this age. But as she hits the New York City dating scene, she discovers men are a curious breed.
"Lainie pushed away her plate of sushi, reached across the table and put her handover mind. Then she shook her head and said, 'Sweetie, I don’t think Randall will have the pleasure of seeing you in your sexy new underwear.'
I felt my muscles tighten and swallowed hard. 'Why not?'
Looking at me in disbelief, Lainie raised her voice and said, 'Girl, you’ve been blown off! Randall the Great is really Randall the rat!' Lowering her voice, she said, 'Don’t feel bad though. You didn’t do anything wrong aside from refusing to do him. I applaud you. He’s a slug.'"
Before she goes on one more heart-breaking date, she decides to take the advice of a male office co-worker a “Love ‘em and leave ‘em” attitude. She struggles to fulfill her obligations to herself, family and friends, and through trial and error, she learns much about herself and what she really wants in a relationship. "State of Jane" is a quirky, sweet and honest bit of chick lit that was just the right tone to pick me up out of the winter doldrums. A definite add to your Must Read list. 4 stars
"Lainie pushed away her plate of sushi, reached across the table and put her handover mind. Then she shook her head and said, 'Sweetie, I don’t think Randall will have the pleasure of seeing you in your sexy new underwear.'
I felt my muscles tighten and swallowed hard. 'Why not?'
Looking at me in disbelief, Lainie raised her voice and said, 'Girl, you’ve been blown off! Randall the Great is really Randall the rat!' Lowering her voice, she said, 'Don’t feel bad though. You didn’t do anything wrong aside from refusing to do him. I applaud you. He’s a slug.'"
Before she goes on one more heart-breaking date, she decides to take the advice of a male office co-worker a “Love ‘em and leave ‘em” attitude. She struggles to fulfill her obligations to herself, family and friends, and through trial and error, she learns much about herself and what she really wants in a relationship. "State of Jane" is a quirky, sweet and honest bit of chick lit that was just the right tone to pick me up out of the winter doldrums. A definite add to your Must Read list. 4 stars
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