Not Madly Not Deeply: A Short Story of Loss, Healing, and the First Sparks of Love

by Jules Starbrook

She wore the wrong cardigan. Said the wrong thing. Played the wrong guitar. But this time, Lily-Anne says NO—no to him, and no to his roses—and it might be the most right thing she’s ever done.

Still reeling from her dad’s death and a relationship that makes her feel small, Lily finally walks away, carrying only the guitar she can no longer bear to play.

With her confidence shattered and her grief still raw, she turns to the people she nearly pushed her mum, her sister, and the memory of her dad, who always supported her music.

Little does she know that someone is already out there—quiet, steady, and willing to believe in her—if she can only find the courage to reach out.

Could letting go of the wrong person be the first step to reigniting her spark—and opening the door to the kind of love she truly deserves?

Not Madly Not Deeply is a short story prequel offering a quiet, heartfelt glimpse into Lily’s journey of reclaiming herself.

While this story can be read as a standalone and contains hints of romance, it ends on a hopeful yet open note—setting the stage for the emotional healing, slow-burn romance, and eventual happily ever after to come in the full-length novel, Madly Deeply Always (inspired by Sense and Sensibility).

Women’s Fiction • Emotional journey • Short Story Prequel to full romance novel • Toxic ex • Finding your voice • Breaking free • Music and memory • Family dynamics • Sister bond • Witty banter • Quiet strength • Creative block and reawakening • Artist in crisis • Grieving loss of parent • Early hints of romance • Email connection • Hope • Starting over

Read it Now – includes a sneak peek of the first chapter of Madly Deeply Always!

64 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 26, 2025

About the author

Jules Starbrook is an Australian contemporary romance author writing emotional, age-gap slow-burn love stories set in England and steeped in yearning, quiet devotion, and a touch of nerdy charm. Her novels feature introspective heroines searching for identity and belonging, and brooding gentlemen who fall in love long before they allow themselves to admit it—loving her in silence even as they resist the inevitable.

Her debut novel Madly Deeply Always, inspired by Sense and Sensibility’s Brandon and Marianne, is the perfect rainy-day comfort read: gentle, immersive, and designed to leave a slow-burn ache that lingers long after the final page.

Reviews

[Laura Carroll · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not Madly, Not Deeply by Jules Starbrook is such a great little teaser! From the very first page I was hooked by Lily Anne and now Brandon’s story.

My only complaint? It’s way too short! I was just getting invested when it ended, and now I can’t wait to see what happens next in the full book. This prequel definitely does its job, it leaves you desperate for more.

If you like romance that pulls you in straight away, you’ll love this. Can’t wait for the follow-up!

[SuzieLeigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Jules for choosing me for an ARC copy of your lastest book. Well what can I say - a slow burn that kept me pining for the characters love.
Lily-Ann is a musician who has lost her way after the death or her father. Nothing seems to be able to rekindle her passion not even her precious guitar. An opportunity to go to the UK to mentor under one of Lily's father's friends arises and she thinks this might be her last chance to find her mojo. Hoping on a plane from Australia, Lily makes her way to the small seaside town of Whitstable. There she meets Brandon who sets out to help her regain her love of music. Whilst in town, Lily stumbles upon a cafe that host live music and has an open mic night. Running into the host of the cafe - the very charismatic Jack Willoughby who talks Lily into coming to the open mic, encouraging her to perhaps play a song. Brandon isn't sure this is a good idea and that Lily might be rushing it, but is this her last chance to take the plunge and see if music still pulses through her veins ???
A tricky triangle forms between Brandon, Lily and Jack but is it just about Lily and her music or is there more to Brandon and Jack's pasts than meets the eye.
A great story that kept me turning to the end. Although I'm more a thriller type of gal, I loved that this story danced around mystery, drama and romance to tell its tale. Now that I have read this one, will definitely seek out Jules' other books. Recommend to anyone wishing for a second chance.

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a huge fan of Sense and Sensability, I instantly requested this one..

A Australian music singer right off a breakup. Her father and died and she is trying to piece herself together. A Christmas card to her dead father changed her plans.

It has a great set up for the next book; humor, intrigue, with the music, and Harry Potter Flare- what’s not to love? This makes me excited to read the next story and dive into Brandon and Lily-Anne’s story.

[Renee Poselwait · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Reader

This was a great teaser of the full-length book coming out in February! I was drawn in immediately. There is so much that I cannot wait to find out! Will Lily-Anne find her way back to music? What made Brandon withdraw for society? Do excited to see where this story goes!!

[Laura Moncrief · Rating 5 out of 5]

This prequel made me fall in love with Lily-Anne. I can’t wait to read Book 1 and see her relationship with Brandon.

[Tina A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Madly, Not Deeply by Jules Starbrook is a prequel to a highly anticipated book that I want to read on Valentine’s Day 2026❣️

While still grieving the loss of her father and their special bond over music, Lily-Ann makes a decision to end a toxic relationship with her controlling, manipulative, patronizing boyfriend. After having prioritized her world around him, she begins to reconnect with family and friends. However, as a struggling musician, she’s lost her confidence and inspiration to play her guitar and turns to a man she’s never met whom she’s hoping will help her find her way back to what she’s lost.

I cannot wait for the rest of this story to pick up from this enthralling novella’s cliffhanger! I’m completely invested in Lily Ann’s story. I admire how her character arc began and want to see how she’ll continue to evolve. She’s at such a vulnerable point in her life, but there’s courage and strength within.

Madly, Deeply, Always, by Jules Starbrook, can’t come soon enough! It’s inspired by Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility which I will reread because it’s been a minute. 😊
*Release Day is February 14, 2026*
#julesstarbrook
#notmadlynotdeeply
#madlydeeplyalways

[Rhobot · Rating 5 out of 5]

like to thank NetGalley and victory editing for a free copy of this book for a honest review .

This short Novella is just the start of my love for Jules Starbrooks retellings.
Lilyanne and Brandon's notebook/the lake house emails are so swoon worthy. He is one of my favourite Austen Men he is like Mr Tillney.
Doesn't want to tame the wild or see wealth .
I cannot wait to read the actual book, hear the descriptions of the cottage the banter between the two.
And I really hope Ellenor gets her story in there too.
I've seen a glimpse of her future books
North Hanger Abby yes!!!*
Thanks again for letting me read this it was just the romance
I needed
Lastly screw you Toby you manipulate gaslighting

[Madi Bartelt · Rating 5 out of 5]

~ ARC Review ~

I absolutely loved this prequel, and truly can’t wait for the full novel (Madly, Deeply, Always). This book was full of detail and had such poetic writing, to the point you could feel Lily-Anne’s grief for her dad and her career burn-out, like you were living it yourself. As the short prequel came to an end, I was already invested in Lily-Anne’s story. The writing was wonderful and left me wanting more, my only complaint is that it was over too soon!

My favorite excerpt from the book was from Brandon when he wrote to Lily-Anne saying, “ Sometimes clarity comes less from pushing through, and more from stepping back.”

I’m excited to find out where Lily-Anne and Brandon’s story goes next!

[cio · Rating 4 out of 5]

If the goal was to make me want the full novel immediately then the author absolutely nailed it. I was hooked, I was invested and I felt everything Lily was going through. It’s rare that a short prequel pulls you in this deep but this one did it perfectly.

What really struck me was how real Lily’s emotions felt, especially in the aftermath of losing her dad. The way the story showed how that kind of grief leaves you open to someone else stepping in (like Toby) was painfully relatable and so true to life. That whole dynamic of clinging to someone in your brokenness, only to realize later that they were keeping you down, was written in such an honest and heartbreaking way.

And then there’s the creative spark storyline, which might have been my favorite part. Losing yourself and wondering if you’ll ever get back that fire—ugh, I felt that so hard. The author captured that emptiness and slow, shaky search for identity in a way that made me feel seen. It wasn’t just about music, it was about Lily trying to find herself again after everything.

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing and Jules Starbrook for letting me read this early. I’ll be first in line for Madly Deeply Always’ ARC.

[Cozy Puppy Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jules Starbrook's "Not Madly Not Deeply" is a resonant read, perfect for anyone navigating creative blocks or seeking a fresh start. I was particularly drawn to the authentic portrayal of Lily-Anne, a character grappling with the raw emotions of grief and loss as she dares to step outside her comfort zone. Her journey through grief, loss, and the power of music creates a deeply emotional experience, making it easy to get swept up in her story. Starbrook's writing beautifully articulates Lily-Anne's search for her lost creative spark, infused with the weight of her grief and the emotional resonance of music. And the sprinkling of Harry Potter references added a charming and delightful layer.

This short story prequel is a must-read if you've ever felt the weight of grief, a creative block, or the need to break free from a toxic past. I loved how the author delved into Lily-Anne's emotional landscape, her deep connection to music, and her initial steps toward finding her voice again. This captivating story serves as a compelling prelude, leaving me eagerly anticipating the continuation of Lily-Anne's journey in the full-length novel, "Madly Deeply Always."

Thank you, Jules Starbrook, for the advanced reader copy of this story!

[Heather H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A poignant and nuanced journey through the intricacies of love, vulnerability, and self-discovery. The world where emotional honesty is both a challenge and a triumph, inviting readers to witness characters navigating the subtle shifts between affection and independence. The novel’s pacing allows moments of quiet reflection to stand out alongside more charged, dramatic sequences, creating a rhythm that mirrors the unpredictability of the heart.
What distinguishes this storytelling is the earnest portrayal of relationships; each connection is rendered with care, exposing both its fragility and strength. The narrative delves into the complexities of human connection without resorting to clichés, offering authentic emotional arcs that resonate long after the final page. Richly detailed settings further immerse the reader, while the protagonist’s growth unfolds with sincerity and depth.
Fans of contemporary romance and character-driven fiction will find Not Madly Not Deeply a memorable and emotionally engaging read. Balance introspection with narrative momentum ensures that every revelation and setback feels deeply earned, making this novel a standout for those seeking a story that honors the nuanced realities of the human heart.

[Scarlett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Escaping Toxicity and Regaining Hope

Lily-Anne starts off this story in a relationship that she realizes is toxic. Though she does escape that relationship, the long-term impact of the time spent in the abuse does not disappear overnight. I like that the story doesn't gloss over the effect that a relationship like that has on a person psychologically, especially when compounded by the vulnerability that comes with grief.

She must take her time recovering from such a dramatic change in her life, and spends most of that recovery time feeling dazed and numb. It's not until she stumbles upon something unexpected that she's shaken out of her trance enough to start allowing herself to imagine a different future for herself. One uncertain, but exciting, and even hopeful.

Though this prequel is short, I think it does a good job of setting up the first book while providing an honest look at one strong woman's recovery process. I look forward to following Lily-Anne on her journey across the hemisphere, to create a new life that does not circle around the ghosts of her past.

I received a free copy of this book but am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Jackie Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily-Anne is exactly the kind of character I always want to see catch a break, and I'm guessing that Brandon, whose voice we get just a hint of here, will be, too. She's just twenty-one, emerging from a toxic relationship, grieving the loss of her father, and can no longer find solace in her music. In less capable hands, that could make for a pretty heavy story, but Starbrook does a lovely job of offering glimpses of who Lily is when she's not weighed down by sorrow. I look forward to lots more banter with her sister in the follow-up novel, and, of course, with the mysterious Brandon! If Alan Rickman's portrayal of Colonel Brandon in Sense and Sensibility lives rent-free in your head, and if you shush your children when a certain brooding professor makes a certain love confession in Harry Potter, I think we're all going to swoon over Brandon Ward. I can't wait!

[MJLovestoRead · Rating 3 out of 5]

This amusing yet self-reflective novella clearly sets the stage for what is to come for Lily-Anne and the new future that suddenly feels much brighter. Jules Starbrook gave us plenty to ponder, which was actually just enough to whet our reading appetite, as we wait for the full-length continuation next year. I enjoyed the premise and was glad for Lily-Anne that she shed that horrible Toby and finally mended fences with her family. The spark of bravery in contacting her late father's assistant, Brandon, is sure to lead to a whole new existence that may actually bring back her love of music and playing her beloved guitar. All without the toxic Toby constantly grimacing in her ear, thank goodness.

I look forward to Madly Deeply Always with the hope that Lily-Anne and Brandon find in each other all that they'll ever need.

3 big stars!

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Going into this short story, I knew it ended on a cliffhanger, yet when I got to the end, I audibly yelled, "No, don't stop now!"

I thoroughly enjoyed the pace of the story, the feelings of hope and the way the creative block was described! You could feel Lily struggling with how to feel post-toxic ex breakup... that man was emotionally abusive, and I cannot wait to read how Lily not only overcomes it but how she gets through the grief of her toxic ex!

Also note: I am not an HP or Sense and Sensibility fan, but I knew enough to enjoy this story still fully!

I cannot wait to read Lily and Brandon's story in Madly Deeply Always!

Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, Rosedon Press and Jules Starbrook for the Arc!

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm honoured to provide this honest ARC review. Not Madly Not Deeply is a heartfelt and beautifully written prequel to the full novel, Madly Deeply Always, set to be published in Feb 2026. I found myself immediately relating to Lily-Anne, having been through the numbness and loss of self that follows a toxic relationship and rough breakup. Not only that, she's also an Aussie! It's refreshing to have a character I can relate to in more ways than one. I can't wait to follow Lily-Anne's bittersweet journey of grief, love, and self-rediscovery as she seeks inspirational guidance from Brandon, a British music manager who worked with her late father. This is definitely one of those reads that soothes the soul just as much as a cup of hot chocolate would.

[Isla Starling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of reading this short story before publication, and I am so grateful I did!

Our protagonist, Lily-Anne, has experienced a toxic relationship that, unfortunately, many will be able to relate to (myself included). This short story gives us a glimpse into her life, her mind, and her past. She is a lovable FMC that I began rooting for from page 1. We get to see her stand up for herself after years of struggling to do so. And we get a sneak peek at her healing (and love) journey that is to come.

Beautiful, almost poetic writing, and relatable characters await you in Not Madly, Not Deeply.

Five stars from me, and I cannot wait to read more of Lily-Anne's story.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous 'taster' for a longer book to come. Lily-Anne immediately appealed to me, with her vulnerability, sweetness, and courage in stepping away from a toxic situation that has sapped her heart and her creativity. Experiencing huge loss on top of this has created a situation in which her confidence and vision of her future have both stumbled and seized. Her depression has her in limbo.
I loved how this short story created the springboard for a much longer story with links to the wonderful Sense and Sensibility. I am looking forward to meeting Brandon, and spending more time with Lily-Anne as she starts to find her feet again 💖💖💖💖💖

[Ashley Bidon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Madly, Not Deeply is the perfect prequel to get you in the spirit for Jules Starbrook’s upcoming book, Madly Deeply Always.

The only thing I didn’t love about this book was the fact that it was a shorter prequel because the storyline reels you in immediately! Lily-Anne and Brandon have a mutual connection in their history which pulls them together in the end of this prequel. I look forward to reading more about their story and finding out how Lily-Anne grows into herself with Brandon’s help!

Thank you NetGalley and Jules Starbrook for the arc copy of this book and allowing me to share my opinions on this!

[Girls Gone Book Clubbin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Madly Not Deeply
I’m not usually one to pick out a book with a musician trope, but I absolutely loved Not Madly, Not Deeply by Jules Starbrook. It’s a short story prequel to her novel Madly Deeply Always, and I can’t wait to get my hands on it too.
Lily-Anne is a FMC grieving the loss of her dad, which this reader can relate to. I can’t wait to see where her story goes.
We just get a little taste of Brandon the MMC in this prequel, but he gives off funny, relatable, reserved energy. I can’t wait to see him break out of his shell.

Thank you Jules for letting GGBC have an advanced copy of Not Madly Not Deeply.
This is an Arc read and my honest review

[Jen B · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5*
I am impressed. First, there are too few S&S variations out there. Second far too few modern S&S variations out there (S&S and Persuasion IMO are best suited to it and S&S just isn't represented nearly enough) and this prequel has really whetted my appetite for the first in the series. I actually like and sympathize with this version of Marianne/Lily (I must admit that I didn't like her that much in the original but here the author has made her quite sympathetic.
I am looking forward to reading the next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heather C. Rafnel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and sweet!

This Novella introduces you to a few of the characters that will be found in Madly, Deeply, Always, which is the novel that follows this novella.
This novella is the prequel, where you meet Lily-Anne. You learn just a snippet of her past and where her mind is at, for the beginning of Madly, Deeply, Always.

Some of the beginning scenes and later with her inner voice might be difficult for some readers to get through. Please read the warnings before jumping in.

By the end, I was cracking up laughing. I cannot WAIT to see where Lily's journey takes us next!

Now... onto Madly, Deeply, Always!

[Petra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short story with a strong emotional punch makes you feel all king of things—from the freeing feeling of letting go to the hope of a new start and a new way ahead of you.The quote sums up perfectly the feeling and self-searching that triggers the story: "Who am I without my music?" The prequel shows us Lily escaping a toxic relationship and seeking a way forward and a way to find herself and her love for music until one email changes everything.I love how I felt every emotion that went through Lily and like I was making an exhale after holding my breath too long when she finally saw things clear and said NO to everything that hurt her. Even though it meant starting anew. And before I knew it, I was laughing so hard in the end at the wonderful banter and relationship finishing on such a high note and a journey ahead.I loved it, and it's a perfect sneak peek of what lies ahead.

[natty · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was such a delightful, emotional quick read for me. even though it was very short and just a teaser for the full book, i immediately felt a connection to the fmc, lily.

struggling with the grief of her father’s passing and trapped in an emotionally abusive relationship, this novella tackles heavy subjects in a short period that makes you already want to root for lily.

searching for a fresh start, stepping outside of comfort zones, dealing with grief and loss…all of it sets up a further healing journey for our fmc that i look forward to reading.

thank you to the author for the arc!

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 5 out of 5]

everyone goes through some sort of loss in life. lily is grieving the loss of her father. but she's also experiencing the inability to continue her love of playing the guitar. she's finds herself stagnate, unable to move forward. so she makes a plan to fix that.

this was a great short read. I was honestly disappointed when I came to the end.
this is a story everyone can relate to in some way, shape, or form.
I can't wait to read it in it's entirety

it was a pleasure being able to ARC read this.

[Aga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Madly, Not Deeply by Jules Starbrook is a beautifully written short story that sets the stage for the upcoming full novel next year. For such a compact read, it delivers big emotions - a tender mix of love, loss, and the quiet hope of starting over. It’s a perfect taste of what’s to come, leaving me both satisfied and impatient for the next chapter in this journey. Starbrook captures that delicate moment between endings and new beginnings with warmth and honesty.

If this is just the prequel, the main book is going to be something special.

[Van LaCar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Toby. Even the name makes you cringe a little (sorry to every Toby out there). But wow! This author did an incredible job making you hate this guy. I was so glad to see the main girl walk away in the most gloriously disrespectful way possible—it gave her all the respect she deserved!

And the best part? It’s a prequel. I love that the author gave us this little taste of her world before diving into the full novel. It’s the perfect hook. Highly recommend this one to music lovers or to anyone who’s ever had to get over a toxic, narcissistic ex and come out stronger on the other side.

[Nathalie DeSousa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will make you feel the emotions of a young woman dealing with so much heartbreak, loss and angst all bundled up. She feels like drowning and resorts to music to help her navigate her feelings. THe story centers mostly on her and her pain, but also shows glimpses of the girl outside of the grief, the sparks of a new relationship, the family dynamics.

This is a great prequel to the novel coming 8in 2026, but a must read!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily-Anne can’t seem to do anything right with her boyfriend Toby - can’t wear the right clothes, play the right guitar, or say the right things. After breaking the three year relationship off though she feels stuck and sparkles. Can a trip to England to meet a former friend of her father’s cure her?

A short teaser for Madly, Deeply, Always leaving you wanting the full story. Will Lily-Anne find herself again? Can she even make the trip? Can’t wait for the full length novel. This is quite a tease but worth it for the backstory.

[DeeG Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novella is a lovely, emotional introduction to Lily-Anne’s story. After losing her father, ending a toxic relationship, and walking away from the life she thought she wanted, Lily-Anne is clearly at a crossroads, and meeting Brandon brings a quiet sense of possibility and healing.
It’s a quick, heartfelt read that focuses on grief, change, and new beginnings. The emotional tone really worked for me, and it left me genuinely curious about what comes next.
A strong lead in to Madly Deeply Always, I’m definitely looking forward to continuing Lily-Anne and Brandon’s journey.