What do you think?
Rate this book
The Best of Fools #0.5
No, Not that Jane Austen
This is a short story prequel to The Best of Fools
The complete opposite of her parents, Jane doesn't like reading love stories and can't stand all things romance, but most especially she hates her name. "No, not that Jane Austen," she's said so many times to so many teachers, friends, and strangers, while lamenting the fact that her parents named her after one of their favorite authors, the very author who sparked their own love story.
Jane isn't looking for a love story, and on the eve of her 18th birthday she happily considers changing her name and finally steering her life away from the self-imposed expectations that come with it, but ... she meets a charming British boy on his way back home and everything she's fought hard to control suddenly becomes irresistible.
The complete opposite of her parents, Jane doesn't like reading love stories and can't stand all things romance, but most especially she hates her name. "No, not that Jane Austen," she's said so many times to so many teachers, friends, and strangers, while lamenting the fact that her parents named her after one of their favorite authors, the very author who sparked their own love story.
Jane isn't looking for a love story, and on the eve of her 18th birthday she happily considers changing her name and finally steering her life away from the self-imposed expectations that come with it, but ... she meets a charming British boy on his way back home and everything she's fought hard to control suddenly becomes irresistible.
33 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2015
9 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
Marilyn Grey
19 books235 followersDear hopeless romantic, I'm so glad you have found the Unspoken Series! This is a 10 book series ending in late 2015. You can get free books from the series and take a quiz to find out how much you'll enjoy it before reading! Go here for more info!
The Unspoken Series
Book #1: Where Love Finds You (Available Now)
Book #2: Down from the Clouds (Available Now)
Book #3: The Life I Now Live (Available Now)
Book #4: Heart on a Shoestring (Available Now)
Book #5: Bloom (Available Now)
Book #6: When the City Sleeps (August 2014)
Book #7: A Thousand Words (December 2014)
Book #8: A Starless Midnight (March 2015)
Book #9: Prism (July 2015)
Book #10: Love, Me (December 2015)
The Unspoken Series
Book #1: Where Love Finds You (Available Now)
Book #2: Down from the Clouds (Available Now)
Book #3: The Life I Now Live (Available Now)
Book #4: Heart on a Shoestring (Available Now)
Book #5: Bloom (Available Now)
Book #6: When the City Sleeps (August 2014)
Book #7: A Thousand Words (December 2014)
Book #8: A Starless Midnight (March 2015)
Book #9: Prism (July 2015)
Book #10: Love, Me (December 2015)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
April 8, 2015
Download for free from Smashwords here: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
This was an okay short story. I didn't really feel like I had enough time to get to know Jane, and I didn't really understand why she was so desperate to change her name and get a tattoo.
I didn't really feel like there was enough time to like Alistair either, and the way he left Jane, and the strange note he left were just that - strange. Can't say I'm all that impressed overall.
6 out of 10
This was an okay short story. I didn't really feel like I had enough time to get to know Jane, and I didn't really understand why she was so desperate to change her name and get a tattoo.
I didn't really feel like there was enough time to like Alistair either, and the way he left Jane, and the strange note he left were just that - strange. Can't say I'm all that impressed overall.
6 out of 10
August 14, 2023
Download for free on smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
I was asked to review this short prequel by the lovely author, Marilyn Grey.
This is definitely a cute and quick read. This reminds me of a prologue before a book, a long prologue at that! From what I have learned about Jane Austen, Not THAT Jane Austen, is that she is not the one to fall in love, she just doesn't see what most girls do. The romance, the giggles, the ever after with a perfect happiness. I suggest there's a reason for that, and I assume it has to do with what Donovan dug up and gave her for Jane's birthday. I hope to get the answer in The Best of Fools.
I was almost sad, thinking this is just your typical "American Girl falls for the new a British Boy who tripped over her and insists on spending the day together only to fall in love at the end of that day." But, nope! That's not the case. There's no flirting, only serious talk about life and not flirting.. I loved that ending, it was kind of a shock that it ended like that, reminded me of a movie or show that is LITERALLY on the tip of my tongue, but I can't remember. I'm assuming The Best of Fools starts four years later...?
That's both cute and hilarious! How can you not smile and snicker at this?
Also,
I know, right?!!
The writing was easy to follow, there are some small punctuation issues I noticed, like an extra quotation marks added, and a phrase was repeated unintentionally, but overall it was a super quick and cute read. It reminded me of FanFiction as well! If you want a quick cute read, check this out and download it for free on slash words, link at the top of review!
I was asked to review this short prequel by the lovely author, Marilyn Grey.
This is definitely a cute and quick read. This reminds me of a prologue before a book, a long prologue at that! From what I have learned about Jane Austen, Not THAT Jane Austen, is that she is not the one to fall in love, she just doesn't see what most girls do. The romance, the giggles, the ever after with a perfect happiness. I suggest there's a reason for that, and I assume it has to do with what Donovan dug up and gave her for Jane's birthday. I hope to get the answer in The Best of Fools.
I was almost sad, thinking this is just your typical "American Girl falls for the new a British Boy who tripped over her and insists on spending the day together only to fall in love at the end of that day." But, nope! That's not the case. There's no flirting, only serious talk about life and not flirting.. I loved that ending, it was kind of a shock that it ended like that, reminded me of a movie or show that is LITERALLY on the tip of my tongue, but I can't remember. I'm assuming The Best of Fools starts four years later...?
"Ro...mantic?" he nudged me with his elbow, and I'm sure he intended to aim for my arm, but instead he jabbed my boob. "I am so.. What I... Oh, what a daft cow. I'm sorry."
"Daft cow?" I laughed. "It's fine. Not much here to fondle anyway."
"There's enough."
That's both cute and hilarious! How can you not smile and snicker at this?
Also,
Funny how warmth can send chills down your body.
I know, right?!!
The writing was easy to follow, there are some small punctuation issues I noticed, like an extra quotation marks added, and a phrase was repeated unintentionally, but overall it was a super quick and cute read. It reminded me of FanFiction as well! If you want a quick cute read, check this out and download it for free on slash words, link at the top of review!
May 17, 2020
Prequel to the Best of Fools
A lovely introduction to Jane Austen, an American who loathe her name and have no interest in romance, and Alistair, british gentleman drummer.
I loved the depth and the author's voice.
Recommend
Rated: Chaste
A lovely introduction to Jane Austen, an American who loathe her name and have no interest in romance, and Alistair, british gentleman drummer.
I loved the depth and the author's voice.
Recommend
Rated: Chaste
January 21, 2015
First, i have to say, i love this cover!
The writing is great. I love this carefree style, without pretentious words and yet told with style. That's the first thing
that came on my mind while reading.
Donovan. I fell in love with him with first couple of sentences :) Such a great character. I really hope to see more of him.
I love connection between Jane and Alistair. Like a writing style, their connection is also carefree and quite simple.
Of course since this is just a prequel i believe that at some point thing will get messy but at the moment everything
is just simple. I like Jane's character. Even tough this was a quick read you can see that's she a bit unusual. She's not your typical girly girl and i like that. It's refreshing. We didn't find out nothing much about Alistair but i have a feeling that his last name and his character in general is going to be very interesting.
I love idea about Jane Austin name and i like the general idea of this book. This books really intrigued me. I'm sure it will be great read and i'm sure that i'll be buying it!
If this author's style is like in this book i'm pretty sure this won't be my last read from her.
Recommendation for everyone!
ps. what's with all romance character falling on their ass and finding love of their life?! i will fall too just get me a great guy someone!! :)
The writing is great. I love this carefree style, without pretentious words and yet told with style. That's the first thing
that came on my mind while reading.
Donovan. I fell in love with him with first couple of sentences :) Such a great character. I really hope to see more of him.
I love connection between Jane and Alistair. Like a writing style, their connection is also carefree and quite simple.
Of course since this is just a prequel i believe that at some point thing will get messy but at the moment everything
is just simple. I like Jane's character. Even tough this was a quick read you can see that's she a bit unusual. She's not your typical girly girl and i like that. It's refreshing. We didn't find out nothing much about Alistair but i have a feeling that his last name and his character in general is going to be very interesting.
I love idea about Jane Austin name and i like the general idea of this book. This books really intrigued me. I'm sure it will be great read and i'm sure that i'll be buying it!
If this author's style is like in this book i'm pretty sure this won't be my last read from her.
Recommendation for everyone!
ps. what's with all romance character falling on their ass and finding love of their life?! i will fall too just get me a great guy someone!! :)
January 13, 2015
PERFECTION!!!!!
I can honestly say this book swept me off my feet! The characters were so realistic and extremely believable. The storyline lacked nothing. Perfect set up for the upcoming book! Instead of The End, seeing To Be Continued made my heart race almost as much as the idea of a real Alistar. This short story had me desperate for more! I am definitely looking forward to The Best Of Fools!!!!
I can honestly say this book swept me off my feet! The characters were so realistic and extremely believable. The storyline lacked nothing. Perfect set up for the upcoming book! Instead of The End, seeing To Be Continued made my heart race almost as much as the idea of a real Alistar. This short story had me desperate for more! I am definitely looking forward to The Best Of Fools!!!!
April 8, 2015
Actual rating - 2.5
I didn't really like the characters in this, and I didn't like the romance.
There wasn't much going on this really, apart from Jane going on about wanting to change her name and getting tattoos. I didn't get why she was so determined to change her name really. I get that she was tired of people asking if her name was her real name, but changing it just because of that seems a bit silly.
I wasn't impressed by the ending either unfortunately.
I didn't really like the characters in this, and I didn't like the romance.
There wasn't much going on this really, apart from Jane going on about wanting to change her name and getting tattoos. I didn't get why she was so determined to change her name really. I get that she was tired of people asking if her name was her real name, but changing it just because of that seems a bit silly.
I wasn't impressed by the ending either unfortunately.
February 13, 2016
The complete opposite of her parents, Jane doesn't like reading love stories and can't stand all things romance, but most especially she hates her name. "No, not that Jane Austen," she's said so many times to so many teachers, friends, and strangers, while lamenting the fact that her parents named her after one of their favorite authors, the very author who sparked their own love story.
Jane isn't looking for a love story, and on the eve of her 18th birthday she happily considers changing her name and finally steering her life away from the self-imposed expectations that come with it, but ... she meets a charming British boy on his way back home and everything she's fought hard to control suddenly becomes irresistible.
There is a point in this very short story where Jane says she doesn't want the situation with Alistair - a guy she meets at the airport - to turn into stuff of story plots: girl meets boy, girl isn't interested in romance, boy (with cute accent) wins her over, heartbreak ensues as he flies back home, leaving her alone to dream about that one day...it's no secret that this is pretty much what happens...
The one thing that will make me pick up The Best of Fools is the box that best friend Donovan dug up and gave to Jane for her birthday. There are secrets in that box that Jane says explains why she is the way she is, why she doesn't want romance, why she is happy being herself (although she does hate her name and wants to get it changed.) I am interested to know what that is and why it is important.
Paul
ARH
Jane isn't looking for a love story, and on the eve of her 18th birthday she happily considers changing her name and finally steering her life away from the self-imposed expectations that come with it, but ... she meets a charming British boy on his way back home and everything she's fought hard to control suddenly becomes irresistible.
There is a point in this very short story where Jane says she doesn't want the situation with Alistair - a guy she meets at the airport - to turn into stuff of story plots: girl meets boy, girl isn't interested in romance, boy (with cute accent) wins her over, heartbreak ensues as he flies back home, leaving her alone to dream about that one day...it's no secret that this is pretty much what happens...
The one thing that will make me pick up The Best of Fools is the box that best friend Donovan dug up and gave to Jane for her birthday. There are secrets in that box that Jane says explains why she is the way she is, why she doesn't want romance, why she is happy being herself (although she does hate her name and wants to get it changed.) I am interested to know what that is and why it is important.
Paul
ARH
January 12, 2015
I am not one to read short or quick books often, unless I know the author. I did not know this one but I am certainly glad I one-clicked!!
Jane is a character that I think a lot will love. I am certainly looking forward to more of her. Her rationalization of life and love are both refreshing and inspiring. I loved some of her points especially her example of the pressure of love that is put onto girls from a young age. It is so true!!! I never thought of it till now but looking back at it I see that. From all the Disney fairy tales, books, and even toys/pretend. A majority want to be a princess and to find their prince.
Alistair is adorable!! I was in complete "swoon mode" over his chivalry and his acceptance of Jane's thoughts. He too had some very eye opening ideas of life; that sometimes we feel trapped in a continuous cycle that we thought we wanted but in the end felt tricked into wanting that for ourselves. Yea...that's deep!
Though a quick read the flow was amazing, character development was there, it was funny, had angst, I adore both the characters, and it left us with mystery. Mystery of what's next and I want to know what is in that box!!!
The only thing I wanted from this read was MORE!! This is a prequel to what is coming and I will most certainly be grabbing the next book cause I am hooked!
5 *WINK* READ
Book Flirts by Jessi
http://bookflirtsbyjessi.blogspot.com
Www.facebook.com/bookflirts
@bookflirtsjessi
Bookflirtsbyjessi@yahoo.com
Jane is a character that I think a lot will love. I am certainly looking forward to more of her. Her rationalization of life and love are both refreshing and inspiring. I loved some of her points especially her example of the pressure of love that is put onto girls from a young age. It is so true!!! I never thought of it till now but looking back at it I see that. From all the Disney fairy tales, books, and even toys/pretend. A majority want to be a princess and to find their prince.
Alistair is adorable!! I was in complete "swoon mode" over his chivalry and his acceptance of Jane's thoughts. He too had some very eye opening ideas of life; that sometimes we feel trapped in a continuous cycle that we thought we wanted but in the end felt tricked into wanting that for ourselves. Yea...that's deep!
Though a quick read the flow was amazing, character development was there, it was funny, had angst, I adore both the characters, and it left us with mystery. Mystery of what's next and I want to know what is in that box!!!
The only thing I wanted from this read was MORE!! This is a prequel to what is coming and I will most certainly be grabbing the next book cause I am hooked!
5 *WINK* READ
Book Flirts by Jessi
http://bookflirtsbyjessi.blogspot.com
Www.facebook.com/bookflirts
@bookflirtsjessi
Bookflirtsbyjessi@yahoo.com
January 12, 2015
No, not that Jane Austen by Marilyn Grey.
This is a quick, quirky read that will have you smiling all the way through.
Jane, no not that famous Jane, this Jane is an 18 year old girl with an aversion to the lovey dovey fairy tales and believes love isn't for everyone. Being raised in an idyllic family surrounding, with parents who adore each other, family that think the world of you and best friends that love you unconditionally, you'd think Jane would love the idea of falling in love, but no.
In this short novel we see people leaving, people arriving, strangers, laughter and even a proposal! This is a lovely book and well worth a read
Merged review:
No, not that Jane Austen by Marilyn Grey.
This is a quick, quirky read that will have you smiling all the way through.
Jane, no not that famous Jane, this Jane is an 18 year old girl with an aversion to the lovey dovey fairy tales and believes love isn't for everyone. Being raised in an idyllic family surrounding, with parents who adore each other, family that think the world of you and best friends that love you unconditionally, you'd think Jane would love the idea of falling in love, but no.
In this short novel we see people leaving, people arriving, strangers, laughter and even a proposal! This is a lovely book and well worth a read
This is a quick, quirky read that will have you smiling all the way through.
Jane, no not that famous Jane, this Jane is an 18 year old girl with an aversion to the lovey dovey fairy tales and believes love isn't for everyone. Being raised in an idyllic family surrounding, with parents who adore each other, family that think the world of you and best friends that love you unconditionally, you'd think Jane would love the idea of falling in love, but no.
In this short novel we see people leaving, people arriving, strangers, laughter and even a proposal! This is a lovely book and well worth a read
Merged review:
No, not that Jane Austen by Marilyn Grey.
This is a quick, quirky read that will have you smiling all the way through.
Jane, no not that famous Jane, this Jane is an 18 year old girl with an aversion to the lovey dovey fairy tales and believes love isn't for everyone. Being raised in an idyllic family surrounding, with parents who adore each other, family that think the world of you and best friends that love you unconditionally, you'd think Jane would love the idea of falling in love, but no.
In this short novel we see people leaving, people arriving, strangers, laughter and even a proposal! This is a lovely book and well worth a read
January 12, 2015
It's just not something I'm interested in. People fall in love too easily and it's all fuzzy and surfacey, then what happens? They get cheated on or they break up or they lose interest. Does that sound appealing to you?" I picked up my drink. "Way too much drama for me." Famous last words! Haha I picked this up this morning quite excited because last time I checked the release date was still a while out. So with lighting reflexes I one clicked and began the journey.
I absolutely love Marilyn's other series but that pales in comparison to how I feel after reading this novel! It was absolutely amazing, more modern and edgier than the Unspoken Series, it might have to do with the characters being a little younger so it has that blush of first love and the excitement of just walking around and holding hands before life gets in the way. It still has all of the elements I love about Marilyn's work, the attention to detail and the vibrant descriptions of color and music. I kept giggling about the scene with the 1812 Overture even after I stopped reading and started this review. It's those little elements that make it seem like real life. The funny awkward moments that may seem like a small thing but actually those are the moments you remember 20 years from now and they still make you smile.
I can't wait to see where this story goes!
I absolutely love Marilyn's other series but that pales in comparison to how I feel after reading this novel! It was absolutely amazing, more modern and edgier than the Unspoken Series, it might have to do with the characters being a little younger so it has that blush of first love and the excitement of just walking around and holding hands before life gets in the way. It still has all of the elements I love about Marilyn's work, the attention to detail and the vibrant descriptions of color and music. I kept giggling about the scene with the 1812 Overture even after I stopped reading and started this review. It's those little elements that make it seem like real life. The funny awkward moments that may seem like a small thing but actually those are the moments you remember 20 years from now and they still make you smile.
I can't wait to see where this story goes!
April 1, 2015
Kindle Copy
It’s not easy being named Jane Austen and having parents caught up in romance. She does not believe in romance and think it is highly overrated. All she wants fir her eighteen birthday is a name change and tattoos.
Taking her best friend to the airport to catch a flight, she stumbles across a British guy named Alistair who she trips over. He offers to buy her a cup of tea which turns to coffee as an apology. Before she knows it, she has spent the whole day with him as they get to know each other.
What seems like an unlikely duo seems to click. A good bye kiss that can be a start of something more with a note to meet on her twenty-first birthday at the airport in a promise of a real kiss. Will she take up that offer and will he be her prince?
We look forward to see if they will meet up again and if they still have chemistry as we wait for the next installment.
It’s not easy being named Jane Austen and having parents caught up in romance. She does not believe in romance and think it is highly overrated. All she wants fir her eighteen birthday is a name change and tattoos.
Taking her best friend to the airport to catch a flight, she stumbles across a British guy named Alistair who she trips over. He offers to buy her a cup of tea which turns to coffee as an apology. Before she knows it, she has spent the whole day with him as they get to know each other.
What seems like an unlikely duo seems to click. A good bye kiss that can be a start of something more with a note to meet on her twenty-first birthday at the airport in a promise of a real kiss. Will she take up that offer and will he be her prince?
We look forward to see if they will meet up again and if they still have chemistry as we wait for the next installment.
January 13, 2015
I really enjoyed reading this short story prequel! The follow up book is going to be a must read for me. The author grabbed me into this story from the beginning and didn't let go until the end.
The story is one day in the life of Jane who meets Alistair while dropping off a friend at the airport. Alistair is returning home to Britain but they spend the day together. He is a proper gentleman making this a clean romance.
This story will take you back to being 18. You'll remember that sweet feeling and excitement of meeting someone new that could turn into a great romance! Definitely recommend it to all romantic readers!
The story is one day in the life of Jane who meets Alistair while dropping off a friend at the airport. Alistair is returning home to Britain but they spend the day together. He is a proper gentleman making this a clean romance.
This story will take you back to being 18. You'll remember that sweet feeling and excitement of meeting someone new that could turn into a great romance! Definitely recommend it to all romantic readers!
April 11, 2015
Great refreshing novel after being on a book slump for some time. I love characters who are witty and independentent, but also realistic. Jane fit these qualiities very well and I loved her spunk. Her and Alistiar's realtionship was cute, nothing was rushed, but still could be fit into 33 pages. Sadly, when it comes to romances, I like them drawn out and somewhat complicated (I just have the feeling of incompleteness after I read them). But I will say that I believe that Ms. Grey wrote a short love story the best way it could be written. I'm looking forward to reading her next book
January 20, 2015
Wooooooow.........AMAZING!!!!
I know this was only a prequel but I am practically shaking with wanting more! I can already tell I'm going to love the full novel. The way Marilyn writes is very different from other authors I've read, but in a good way. I hope I get to read the full novel soon, fingers crossed.
I know this was only a prequel but I am practically shaking with wanting more! I can already tell I'm going to love the full novel. The way Marilyn writes is very different from other authors I've read, but in a good way. I hope I get to read the full novel soon, fingers crossed.
October 14, 2016
Cute setup for The Best of Fools; I'm intrigued enough to want to read it. Of course, I'm a Jane Austen fan, so the title drew me in. I do have to say, I was so confused by the ending, is it 4 years or is it her 21st birthday?? I had to read a few pages into The Best of Fools and the mistake is addressed, whew!
January 19, 2016
Another book in a series that has an interesting plot. Romance in a different kind of way. Looking forward to how the character of Jane Austen will end up in this series. I learned something about young adult culture from this one. Nice read!
February 2, 2015
Can't wait to read the best of fools
Cannot wait to read the best of fools. I not that Jane Austen totally reeled me in and left me wanting more..can not wait to find out what happens between Jane and Alistair! As always Marilyn keeps my interest and makes me want to read more!
Cannot wait to read the best of fools. I not that Jane Austen totally reeled me in and left me wanting more..can not wait to find out what happens between Jane and Alistair! As always Marilyn keeps my interest and makes me want to read more!
November 21, 2016
So cute!!!! Full review coming soon!
June 10, 2018
Can a character be too quirky? Reading this I found out that yes, such a character exists. The heroine is flat and absolutely boring as a result of all these quirks that don’t come together and make a relatable character, but more something that grates on you.
March 12, 2019
Lovely
March 29, 2021
it was a short & captivating read. i loved both Jane & Alistair characters. both secretive & observant, even more interesting when put together. cant wait to lay my hands on the next book!
March 6, 2023
This ended in a cliffhanger. This book ended in a motherfucking cliffhanger. I give it an open to discussions kind of vibe but I hate cliffhangers. Dammit.
May 11, 2015
No, Not That Jane Austen is a short prequel novella that captures the attention while introducing the characters for The Best of Fools. Jane Austen, about to graduate from high school, has never believed in love nor had a boyfriend. Even though her parents are still starry-eyed lovers in middle age and gave her the name she hates as a connection to their own love story, Jane hates her name and the reaction to it that she has faced all of her life. After taking her best friend, Donovan, to the airport on her birthday, she literally bumps into a young man and knocks him to the ground as she turns to leave. Jane has to admit that this attractive British fellow catches her attention, or is it just his accent? After many apologies and a short afternoon in his company, they part, Jane thinking she will never see Alistair again. However, he has left a tantalizing note suggesting they meet in the airport four years later, if they are both still single, on "The Big Day".
Although a very short read, and being someone who does not usually favor novellas, I will have to admit, I was hooked and wanted to read more about these characters. I found Jane different from most young girls today, with her mind set on her goals, and not interested in living a carefree social life. Donovan is the longtime friend who has always cared about Jane and wants her to take chances and begin to "live." New to her life, Alistair was charming, polite, and seemed interested in Jane without being pushy. He had a quality of mystery about him, and his note was certainly intriguing. The conversation flowed easily between the characters, giving quick insight into their personalities. Grey did a great job of creating interest, and fortunately for me, I was able to go right on to the longer story, The Best of Fools.
Although a very short read, and being someone who does not usually favor novellas, I will have to admit, I was hooked and wanted to read more about these characters. I found Jane different from most young girls today, with her mind set on her goals, and not interested in living a carefree social life. Donovan is the longtime friend who has always cared about Jane and wants her to take chances and begin to "live." New to her life, Alistair was charming, polite, and seemed interested in Jane without being pushy. He had a quality of mystery about him, and his note was certainly intriguing. The conversation flowed easily between the characters, giving quick insight into their personalities. Grey did a great job of creating interest, and fortunately for me, I was able to go right on to the longer story, The Best of Fools.
January 13, 2015
Have you ever eaten something that made you savour every taste of it until you came to the last bite without even realizing it and you were left unsatisfied.. hanging.. craving for more only to find out that what you had was just the appetizer and you didn't even had an idea because it was too good and you were lost enjoying it and so you'd end up more than willing to wait for the main course to be served no matter how long it would take because the appetizer was simply too appealing and tasty and you know you wouldn't be satisfied unless you had the complete meal eaten and digested.
No, Not that Jane Austen is my literary appetizer and I can't wait to finally read The Best of Fools because the prequel is such a cliffhanger, but in a good way. It makes me wonder what will happen after four years. Will they both meet on The Big Day? Who will come and who will wait for the other one? Will they ever meet again?
When I was done in the story, I sorta compared it to Just One Night (or Just One Year? whatever) of Gayle Forman in which the characters met one magical day and it took them one year before meeting again. In the case of No,Not that Jane Austen, though, the characters were both aware of how attracted they were, although they hadn't admitted it verbally, and that unlike Just One Night, their next meeting was set on the same time, date and place where they first met. Whether the two of them will come for The Big Day is yet to be revealed.
And I am excited for The Best of Fools because I was easily hooked to its prequel and was left wondering about a lot of things that are about to happen.
If you're searching for a different kind of love story, you're on the right track. :)
No, Not that Jane Austen is my literary appetizer and I can't wait to finally read The Best of Fools because the prequel is such a cliffhanger, but in a good way. It makes me wonder what will happen after four years. Will they both meet on The Big Day? Who will come and who will wait for the other one? Will they ever meet again?
When I was done in the story, I sorta compared it to Just One Night (or Just One Year? whatever) of Gayle Forman in which the characters met one magical day and it took them one year before meeting again. In the case of No,Not that Jane Austen, though, the characters were both aware of how attracted they were, although they hadn't admitted it verbally, and that unlike Just One Night, their next meeting was set on the same time, date and place where they first met. Whether the two of them will come for The Big Day is yet to be revealed.
And I am excited for The Best of Fools because I was easily hooked to its prequel and was left wondering about a lot of things that are about to happen.
If you're searching for a different kind of love story, you're on the right track. :)
April 27, 2015
**5 Stars**
“It seems that it is a truth universally unknown that every girl in the world is not looking for a romance.”
You know those books that you read… where at times you just want to slap the female lead because they are perfect, innocent, naïve, etc.? Well, if you are one of those people, you will love this book by Marilyn Grey.
“Let’s bypass all of the awkward stuff and just be realistic.”
It was like a breath of fresh air reading it… not the same old story line, character background, etc. that we have been seeing a lot of lately. This isn’t the type of book that you will be able to guess what comes next, or what exactly will happen in the next book, The Best of Fools. While the book No, Not that Jane Austen is a prequel to The Best of Fools, it will make it to where you don’t want to stop reading it. You want to know what’s going on… you want to see if you can guess what Jane is going to do next, or think next… or even try and guess her emotions.
Now I don’t want to give too much away, because I really want you to read it for yourself and you will understand what I’m trying to express in this review.
“It seems that it is a truth universally unknown that every girl in the world is not looking for a romance.”
You know those books that you read… where at times you just want to slap the female lead because they are perfect, innocent, naïve, etc.? Well, if you are one of those people, you will love this book by Marilyn Grey.
“Let’s bypass all of the awkward stuff and just be realistic.”
It was like a breath of fresh air reading it… not the same old story line, character background, etc. that we have been seeing a lot of lately. This isn’t the type of book that you will be able to guess what comes next, or what exactly will happen in the next book, The Best of Fools. While the book No, Not that Jane Austen is a prequel to The Best of Fools, it will make it to where you don’t want to stop reading it. You want to know what’s going on… you want to see if you can guess what Jane is going to do next, or think next… or even try and guess her emotions.
Now I don’t want to give too much away, because I really want you to read it for yourself and you will understand what I’m trying to express in this review.
May 1, 2015
**I was asked to review** :)
I enjoyed this. Admittedly I did find it a little odd that Jane would have doubts about accepting a cup of coffee from a stranger, and yet she was happy enough to drag him along as she got a tattoo – her first and a personal experience that she had wanted to share with actual friends and not a stranger.
Of course this is a romance story, of sorts so once I got over that, I enjoyed the rest. Loved the Nicholas Sparks mentions. I am a fan of his too so I could identify. I am also a classical music fan and I loved that our heroine, even in this day of new and bright and sparkly, still preferred the old. She might not think she believes in romance but that genre of music just oozes romance. The Overture playing at the end was a great touch.
My favourite part was the note at the end – like I say, sucker for the romance. It was a great way to end after the build up and suspense with the non-kiss, leading you to wanting to find out if she does or doesn’t show up in four years.
Looking forward to reading the sequel to find out if not only does Jane get her happy ever after but seeing if she also does change her name or finally come to accept that it is what it is and that’s enough for her.
I enjoyed this. Admittedly I did find it a little odd that Jane would have doubts about accepting a cup of coffee from a stranger, and yet she was happy enough to drag him along as she got a tattoo – her first and a personal experience that she had wanted to share with actual friends and not a stranger.
Of course this is a romance story, of sorts so once I got over that, I enjoyed the rest. Loved the Nicholas Sparks mentions. I am a fan of his too so I could identify. I am also a classical music fan and I loved that our heroine, even in this day of new and bright and sparkly, still preferred the old. She might not think she believes in romance but that genre of music just oozes romance. The Overture playing at the end was a great touch.
My favourite part was the note at the end – like I say, sucker for the romance. It was a great way to end after the build up and suspense with the non-kiss, leading you to wanting to find out if she does or doesn’t show up in four years.
Looking forward to reading the sequel to find out if not only does Jane get her happy ever after but seeing if she also does change her name or finally come to accept that it is what it is and that’s enough for her.
January 12, 2015
READ THE NEXT BOOK FOR FREE!
This prequel will continue in The Best of Fools which is available now for pre-order on Amazon US and Amazon UK. BUT you can get a free paperback copy of The Best of Fools simply by being one of the first 25 people people to review No, Not that Jane Austen on Amazon.com! Did you enjoy No, Not that Jane Austen? Are you excited to read more in The Best of Fools? Enter to win a FREE KINDLE FIRE HD6 when you let Marilyn know by leaving a review of No, Not that Jane Austen right now! AND the first 25 reviewers will also receive a FREE signed paperback copy when The Best of Fools releases, so be sure to send your snail mail address! Email your review to marilyn@marilyn-grey.com with KINDLE FIRE in the subject line to enter. You will also receive a free gift certificate to spend on Marilyn Grey's official store! When 50 reviews total are received a winner for the Kindle will be chosen and notified via email! Your review helps support the authors and books you love. So, if you love an author/book, please consider leaving even the teeniest of reviews! It is so appreciated!
This prequel will continue in The Best of Fools which is available now for pre-order on Amazon US and Amazon UK. BUT you can get a free paperback copy of The Best of Fools simply by being one of the first 25 people people to review No, Not that Jane Austen on Amazon.com! Did you enjoy No, Not that Jane Austen? Are you excited to read more in The Best of Fools? Enter to win a FREE KINDLE FIRE HD6 when you let Marilyn know by leaving a review of No, Not that Jane Austen right now! AND the first 25 reviewers will also receive a FREE signed paperback copy when The Best of Fools releases, so be sure to send your snail mail address! Email your review to marilyn@marilyn-grey.com with KINDLE FIRE in the subject line to enter. You will also receive a free gift certificate to spend on Marilyn Grey's official store! When 50 reviews total are received a winner for the Kindle will be chosen and notified via email! Your review helps support the authors and books you love. So, if you love an author/book, please consider leaving even the teeniest of reviews! It is so appreciated!
May 20, 2015
Not totally what I was expecting, but a few minor typos aside, I ended up really liking this. Main character Jane Austen is tired of feeling pressure from all sides about romance, and her name certainly doesn't help. But then she bumps into Alistair at the airport (literally) and over the course of the day she begins to think a little less negatively about it. This description sounds like a bunch of other cheesy romance books where the main character is resistant to the idea of love only then, omg! she falls in love with some random dude in one day and it's FOREVER AND EVER!!! But it's not. I love how straightforward Jane is about wanting nothing to do with romance right now, and how realistic Alistair is about his feelings. And, I mean, the story is basically just people talking--I found it refreshing. It's all kind of Before Sunrise, but it's fun, and I'm definitely looking forward to reading about what happens with Jane and Alistair (and Donovan!!!) in the full-length sequel to this novella.
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review, Marilyn!
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review, Marilyn!
May 5, 2015
I quite enjoyed reading this book. The characters and the premise if the novel were original and interesting. In my opinion, this story was unrealistic, so the main thing I was thinking while reading it was, 'god, this would never happen to me' but the thing is,I am extremely different from Jane. I enjoyed reading this book because in an odd way, it let me experience things I wouldn't have the courage to in real life.
I enjoyed myself throughout this short novel, but my favourite part had to be the ending. I am a total sucker for those kinds of endings. All in all, I totally recommend this book to everyone who's looking for a easy, fun, light read. The only thing that brought down my rating of this book, was that the quality of writing wasn't quite at it's peek yet. Like, I could feel the potential through the pages, but it just wasn't quite there. I look forward to reading Best of Fools, the continuation of No, Not that Jane Austen, and I look forward to keeping up with Marilyn's writing, and watching it progress.
I enjoyed myself throughout this short novel, but my favourite part had to be the ending. I am a total sucker for those kinds of endings. All in all, I totally recommend this book to everyone who's looking for a easy, fun, light read. The only thing that brought down my rating of this book, was that the quality of writing wasn't quite at it's peek yet. Like, I could feel the potential through the pages, but it just wasn't quite there. I look forward to reading Best of Fools, the continuation of No, Not that Jane Austen, and I look forward to keeping up with Marilyn's writing, and watching it progress.
June 15, 2015
I really liked this short story. I felt like it was at the same time a satisfying story (in the sense that it had a good flow, nothing felt too abrupt) and it made you want to know what's next.
I had already read the first chapters of The Best of Fools when I realized this was the prequel (oops), so with that perspective, I must say that this short story helps A LOT to understand the context of the beginning of the novel. So, although the description says it's a prequel, I really felt like this was a (necessary) prologue for the novel The Best of Fools.
Also: while reading the begining of The Best of Fools, I was getting into #TeamDonovan, but after reading this I was #TeamAlistair all the way so I really really recommend reading this before going into The Best of Fools, hahaha!
I had already read the first chapters of The Best of Fools when I realized this was the prequel (oops), so with that perspective, I must say that this short story helps A LOT to understand the context of the beginning of the novel. So, although the description says it's a prequel, I really felt like this was a (necessary) prologue for the novel The Best of Fools.
Also: while reading the begining of The Best of Fools, I was getting into #TeamDonovan, but after reading this I was #TeamAlistair all the way so I really really recommend reading this before going into The Best of Fools, hahaha!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews