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Beowulf for Cretins: A Love Story
Beowulf for A Love Story was awarded the 2019 Lambda Literary Award in the Lesbian Romance category.
English professor and aspiring novelist, Grace Warner spends her days teaching four sections of Beowulf for Cretins to bored and disinterested students at one of New England's "hidden ivy" colleges. Not long after she is dumped by her longtime girlfriend, Grace meets the engaging and mysterious Abbie on a cross-country flight. Sparks fly on and off the plane as the two strangers give in to one night of reckless passion with no strings attached, and no contact information exchanged.
Back home at St. Albans, the college rocks Grace's world when it announces the appointment of a new president, the first woman in its 165-year history. Cue Abbie--and cue Grace's collision course with a neurotic dog named Grendel, a fractious rival for tenure, and a woman called Ochre, in what very well might be Grace's last real shot at happiness.
This full-length novel reimagines and expands on the short story, "Falling From Grace," which was originally published in the award-winning story collection, Sidecar by Ann McMan.
English professor and aspiring novelist, Grace Warner spends her days teaching four sections of Beowulf for Cretins to bored and disinterested students at one of New England's "hidden ivy" colleges. Not long after she is dumped by her longtime girlfriend, Grace meets the engaging and mysterious Abbie on a cross-country flight. Sparks fly on and off the plane as the two strangers give in to one night of reckless passion with no strings attached, and no contact information exchanged.
Back home at St. Albans, the college rocks Grace's world when it announces the appointment of a new president, the first woman in its 165-year history. Cue Abbie--and cue Grace's collision course with a neurotic dog named Grendel, a fractious rival for tenure, and a woman called Ochre, in what very well might be Grace's last real shot at happiness.
This full-length novel reimagines and expands on the short story, "Falling From Grace," which was originally published in the award-winning story collection, Sidecar by Ann McMan.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2018
79 people are currently reading
578 people want to read
About the author
Ann McMan
34 books572 followersCollege at an indifferent liberal arts institution taught Ann McMan that understanding subject/verb agreement was not enough to secure her fame and fortune. After graduation, she got a job driving a young adult bookmobile—and spent her days piloting the great rig across the dusty back roads of rural North Carolina. Her duties included making certain that the mobile library always contained at least six copies of "Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret", visiting the county detention unit (it was a great way to catch up with her brothers), and showing public service films about safe sex to pre-teens at 4-H Clubs all across her part of “The New South.”
Soon, the allure of higher education coaxed Ann back to school. For the past three decades, Ann has worked at a succession of premier institutions, designing marketing and advancement materials that promote, promulgate, and extol the benefits of indifferent liberal arts education.
Somebody has to do it.
All this time, she continued to write. And when, at the ripe old age of thirty, she realized that she was not like other girls, the great world of lesbian literature opened its arms, and provided her with a safe haven in which to grow and learn about her new identity. She will forever be indebted to those literary pioneers who had the courage, the talent, and the temerity to gift us all with an art form of our own. Ann’s first and subsequent attempts at writing lesbian fiction have been heartfelt attempts to pay that great gift forward.
Ann McMan is the author of three novels, JERICHO, DUST, and AFTERMATH–and the story collection SIDECAR.
In 2011, Ann, along with her novels JERICHO and DUST and her short story “I Saw Xena Kissing Senticles” were elected to The Royal Academy of Bards Hall of Fame. In 2012, she was awarded the Alice B. Lavender Certificate.
BACKCAST, further adventures of the CLIT-Con 13 (that zany cast of authors from SIDECAR’s “Bottle Rocket”) will be released in 2013.
Soon, the allure of higher education coaxed Ann back to school. For the past three decades, Ann has worked at a succession of premier institutions, designing marketing and advancement materials that promote, promulgate, and extol the benefits of indifferent liberal arts education.
Somebody has to do it.
All this time, she continued to write. And when, at the ripe old age of thirty, she realized that she was not like other girls, the great world of lesbian literature opened its arms, and provided her with a safe haven in which to grow and learn about her new identity. She will forever be indebted to those literary pioneers who had the courage, the talent, and the temerity to gift us all with an art form of our own. Ann’s first and subsequent attempts at writing lesbian fiction have been heartfelt attempts to pay that great gift forward.
Ann McMan is the author of three novels, JERICHO, DUST, and AFTERMATH–and the story collection SIDECAR.
In 2011, Ann, along with her novels JERICHO and DUST and her short story “I Saw Xena Kissing Senticles” were elected to The Royal Academy of Bards Hall of Fame. In 2012, she was awarded the Alice B. Lavender Certificate.
BACKCAST, further adventures of the CLIT-Con 13 (that zany cast of authors from SIDECAR’s “Bottle Rocket”) will be released in 2013.
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August 7, 2024
Beowulf for Cretins is a sophisticated and witty love story of an English professor, Grace Warner and the soon to be President of her university, Abbie Williams. The two first meet at a mutual friend’s party and from there they climb an uphill battle to be together.
Ann McMan writes with a sharp and humorous focus on academic life in a small university town. The nuance of living life in a fishbowl is mockingly examined through an array of eclectic characters who are sure to amuse. The story is an instant attraction with a short step to love which I would normally rail against yet for Grace and Abbie it suits. They are both in their forties and settled within themselves to know and recognize their feelings for each other.
The dialogue between Grace and Abbie is casually educated with heaps of jocularity. Laugh out loud moments are plenty. I am generally a speed reader and devour novels at a rapid pace yet I slowed down to a crawl for Beowulf for Cretins to enjoy every single word.
I am positive you will as well.
I received an advance review copy from Bywater Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ann McMan writes with a sharp and humorous focus on academic life in a small university town. The nuance of living life in a fishbowl is mockingly examined through an array of eclectic characters who are sure to amuse. The story is an instant attraction with a short step to love which I would normally rail against yet for Grace and Abbie it suits. They are both in their forties and settled within themselves to know and recognize their feelings for each other.
The dialogue between Grace and Abbie is casually educated with heaps of jocularity. Laugh out loud moments are plenty. I am generally a speed reader and devour novels at a rapid pace yet I slowed down to a crawl for Beowulf for Cretins to enjoy every single word.
I am positive you will as well.
I received an advance review copy from Bywater Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 16, 2018
I’ve only read two other McMan books and I’m going to be completely honest…I liked them both and thought both were really well written, but I also found myself a little bored with them by the end. McMan is a fade-to-black author and, well, I'm a pervert that likes a little side of steam with my romance. I decided to give this one a go mostly because of the Vermont setting. I’ve read very few really well written books that take place in my native state, so I tend to hesitantly-jump on ‘em when they show up.
In ‘Beowulf for Cretins’ the two main characters, Grace and Addie, have a one night stand when they meet on a trip in San Francisco and, despite the obvious connection, both go home without exchanging any contact information; Addie to North Carolina and Grace to Vermont.
After the death of her husband (18 months prior to her fling with Grace), Addie had made the decision to make some major changes in her life, two of which are her job and her location (I guess a third obvious one is her sexuality, though this book never actually brings that up. It does hint that Abbie’s gay and not bi, so…yeah). It just so happens that her new position, President of St. Albans College, is at the same school were Grace is an English Professor. While their reunion was coincidental, neither are shy about their feelings when they meet again. At 46/47, they actually act like the adults they are and communicate. Abbie and Grace agree that they want to make a go at a relationship, though they have no idea what that looks like feasibly, and most of this book is about navigating those waters while also knowing that it could have potential negative consequences on their careers.
I’m usually hesitant about reading books that take place in areas I live/have lived because I’ve read a lot of botch jobs, not just on Vermont, but on other cities I’ve lived in in the south. I’m happy to say that Ann McMan did her homework and it’s obvious. This is kind of a stupid thing to stand out to me, but she uses an actual grocery chain that exists predominantly in New England. I once read a book where the author continuously had the character going to a store that I had never heard of and google kindly informed me that it's because the store is one that is popular out west and is not, in fact, a chain that even exists in the south. I still grrrrr just thinking about it. McMan also mentions other locations (Smuggler’s Notch Distillery, Maple City Diner, Kamp Kill Kare, and Burton Island) that are real places and it allows the book to feel more authentic. While the Vermont setting isn’t really predominant enough in the book to discern it from any other lake town with a small liberal arts college, it was still represented well enough. I never once thought ‘that doesn’t sound like Vermont.’
All in all, I enjoyed this book more than the other two I’ve read by McMan. She’s a very intelligent writer and I like her style a lot. Her humor is witty, her characters are likable, and she obviously takes care to do her research.
In ‘Beowulf for Cretins’ the two main characters, Grace and Addie, have a one night stand when they meet on a trip in San Francisco and, despite the obvious connection, both go home without exchanging any contact information; Addie to North Carolina and Grace to Vermont.
After the death of her husband (18 months prior to her fling with Grace), Addie had made the decision to make some major changes in her life, two of which are her job and her location (I guess a third obvious one is her sexuality, though this book never actually brings that up. It does hint that Abbie’s gay and not bi, so…yeah). It just so happens that her new position, President of St. Albans College, is at the same school were Grace is an English Professor. While their reunion was coincidental, neither are shy about their feelings when they meet again. At 46/47, they actually act like the adults they are and communicate. Abbie and Grace agree that they want to make a go at a relationship, though they have no idea what that looks like feasibly, and most of this book is about navigating those waters while also knowing that it could have potential negative consequences on their careers.
I’m usually hesitant about reading books that take place in areas I live/have lived because I’ve read a lot of botch jobs, not just on Vermont, but on other cities I’ve lived in in the south. I’m happy to say that Ann McMan did her homework and it’s obvious. This is kind of a stupid thing to stand out to me, but she uses an actual grocery chain that exists predominantly in New England. I once read a book where the author continuously had the character going to a store that I had never heard of and google kindly informed me that it's because the store is one that is popular out west and is not, in fact, a chain that even exists in the south. I still grrrrr just thinking about it. McMan also mentions other locations (Smuggler’s Notch Distillery, Maple City Diner, Kamp Kill Kare, and Burton Island) that are real places and it allows the book to feel more authentic. While the Vermont setting isn’t really predominant enough in the book to discern it from any other lake town with a small liberal arts college, it was still represented well enough. I never once thought ‘that doesn’t sound like Vermont.’
All in all, I enjoyed this book more than the other two I’ve read by McMan. She’s a very intelligent writer and I like her style a lot. Her humor is witty, her characters are likable, and she obviously takes care to do her research.
August 11, 2018
3 stars. Some splendid dialogue in this book but I couldn't get past the underdeveloped primary and secondary characters and the flimsy insta love story. I mean, they shagged a few times (which is fade to black by the way) and suddenly grand declarations of love pop up. I'm not sure why because most of the book is spent with Grace alone or her friends/family. They barely talked with each other throughout the book. So the supposed love story is as romantic as sex with a stranger in a club's bathroom without the nasty smell.
And while Grace was compelling enough to make the book interesting I'm still struggling to see the point of it all. It's definitely not a love story. Something about Grace's growth? Well... either way it was mildly entertaining even though I struggle to see the meaning behind a lot of things the book focused on like the brother character Dean, the nun that is not a nun anymore, the parents on either side or Abbie who's absolutely perfect in every way and a lesbian's wet dream come true.
Maybe my lack of knowledge of a lot of literary references and symbolism used in this book contributed to my decreased enjoyment of it. But for now, I'll just assume the book tries to be smarter than it is because it's easier than admitting my own shortcomings. You're welcome to prove me wrong.
I wanted a love story but I got something... else.
And while Grace was compelling enough to make the book interesting I'm still struggling to see the point of it all. It's definitely not a love story. Something about Grace's growth? Well... either way it was mildly entertaining even though I struggle to see the meaning behind a lot of things the book focused on like the brother character Dean, the nun that is not a nun anymore, the parents on either side or Abbie who's absolutely perfect in every way and a lesbian's wet dream come true.
Maybe my lack of knowledge of a lot of literary references and symbolism used in this book contributed to my decreased enjoyment of it. But for now, I'll just assume the book tries to be smarter than it is because it's easier than admitting my own shortcomings. You're welcome to prove me wrong.
I wanted a love story but I got something... else.
February 22, 2023
Loved this book. It’s clever and very funny, witticisms abound. Nice main and supporting characters (minus one). Ann McMan is a very proficient writer. I can certainly recommend this book.
March 8, 2019
*Yawn* Too many literary references for this cretin I’m afraid. I liked Grace and Abby and enjoyed the dry wit and slapstick scenes we’ve come to expect with this author.
Recommended read for high brows and anyone with a Lit degree.
Recommended read for high brows and anyone with a Lit degree.
September 19, 2018
"Beowulf for Cretins: A Love Story" presents sizzling dialogues with terrific narration!
MCs Grace and Abbie are both very likable, and their chemistry is both believable and entertaining. It's a shame that author McMan is a fade-to-black writer! Grace in particular is wonderfully snarky and funny, although she is unsure of herself, and recognizes that she's a coward with her love and sex life. Abbie is confident and sultry; they make a great couple!
For the most part, secondary characters had good roles, especially student fangirl Brittany and artist-in-residence flirty horndog Laurie. Brice, aka "Blowjob" was a bit over-the-top as the villain; I picture him with a curled mustache and a black hat, trying to tie Grace to railroad tracks.
In typical McMan style, there are lots of very funny situations and events and memories. I especially like the trellis scene, and memories and the interaction with Sister Mary Larry. Grendel the dog is wonderful too!
As with many/most lesfic books, it's frustrating listening to characters making life changing plans that involve a love interest….without actually talking to their love interest about those plans. IRL…disaster would ensue, but authors seem determined to use non-communication or miscommunication as part of lesfic romance.
This being a book about a literature teacher and an accomplished and published college president, there are lots of details about being a teacher (and much ridicule and mocking of first year students, which I found surprising), and lots and lots of erudite quotes from literature, and naming of names of literary giants….most of which became very tiresome to me personally, but YMMV.
Overall, I really enjoyed "Beowulf for Cretins", and recommend it with 4.5*. Once again, I wish goodreads had a half-star rating system, because I want to differentiate Beowulf from other 4* rated books, many of which were rounded up from a 3.5* rating, yet I also don't think Beowulf is quite the OMG WOW book that some of my 5* rated books are. Sigh….I'm rounding up to 5*. Listen and enjoy "Beowulf for Cretins"!
MCs Grace and Abbie are both very likable, and their chemistry is both believable and entertaining. It's a shame that author McMan is a fade-to-black writer! Grace in particular is wonderfully snarky and funny, although she is unsure of herself, and recognizes that she's a coward with her love and sex life. Abbie is confident and sultry; they make a great couple!
For the most part, secondary characters had good roles, especially student fangirl Brittany and artist-in-residence flirty horndog Laurie. Brice, aka "Blowjob" was a bit over-the-top as the villain; I picture him with a curled mustache and a black hat, trying to tie Grace to railroad tracks.
In typical McMan style, there are lots of very funny situations and events and memories. I especially like the trellis scene, and memories and the interaction with Sister Mary Larry. Grendel the dog is wonderful too!
As with many/most lesfic books, it's frustrating listening to characters making life changing plans that involve a love interest….without actually talking to their love interest about those plans. IRL…disaster would ensue, but authors seem determined to use non-communication or miscommunication as part of lesfic romance.
This being a book about a literature teacher and an accomplished and published college president, there are lots of details about being a teacher (and much ridicule and mocking of first year students, which I found surprising), and lots and lots of erudite quotes from literature, and naming of names of literary giants….most of which became very tiresome to me personally, but YMMV.
Overall, I really enjoyed "Beowulf for Cretins", and recommend it with 4.5*. Once again, I wish goodreads had a half-star rating system, because I want to differentiate Beowulf from other 4* rated books, many of which were rounded up from a 3.5* rating, yet I also don't think Beowulf is quite the OMG WOW book that some of my 5* rated books are. Sigh….I'm rounding up to 5*. Listen and enjoy "Beowulf for Cretins"!
July 12, 2018
Love this story, a very funny extension of the short story "Falling from Grace" from "Sidecar". Love the witty dialogs. Love Grace's hilarious inner thoughts. In short, love Ann McMan. Ann McMan never disappoints.
June 26, 2018
Oh how I loved Beowulf for Cretins. It's clever, witty and just a fun read. But that’s what I have come to expect from author calibre like Ann McMann.
After meeting the woman of her dreams on a plane, Grace never expects to see Abbie again but said plane ride is the first of many unexpected meetings. After one night of passion the two find themselves in each others presence time and time again and the attraction keeps growing but when Abbie turns out to be Grace's new boss, they both know but two things… 1. Falling for Abbie could end Grace's career and 2. It’s too late she’s already falling.
With secret meet ups and an adorable dog named Grendel, these two have their work cut out for them. But doesn’t love conquer all?
So here’s the thing, Beowulf for Cretins is possibly one of the best novels I have ever read so I am going to be straight up honest and say if you are looking for a racy romance read this is probably not for you, but if your looking for an intelligent love story that will give you the feels from the beginning, then this book is for you. Utterly perfect.
Beowulf for Cretins is written solely from Grace's point of view and what a view of life she has. She’s not the most positive person but what she lacks in positivity she gains in her quirky, loveable demeaner and she’s down right hilarious (without knowing it), I had many a chuckle while reading her inner thoughts. I loved Abbie’s character and reading her was a delight. She was a little mysterious, but I felt like I was falling for her along with Grace as her feelings unravel and their relationship blooms. Also, I adored the candour used when Abbie tells Grace her feelings, I don’t think it could be written any other way or she would have been too much of a mystery.
All in all, this is a love story with a difference and I urge readers to give it a go. I can’t wait to pick up my paperback copy for my favourites shelf at home.
Unequivocally 5 stars.
After meeting the woman of her dreams on a plane, Grace never expects to see Abbie again but said plane ride is the first of many unexpected meetings. After one night of passion the two find themselves in each others presence time and time again and the attraction keeps growing but when Abbie turns out to be Grace's new boss, they both know but two things… 1. Falling for Abbie could end Grace's career and 2. It’s too late she’s already falling.
With secret meet ups and an adorable dog named Grendel, these two have their work cut out for them. But doesn’t love conquer all?
So here’s the thing, Beowulf for Cretins is possibly one of the best novels I have ever read so I am going to be straight up honest and say if you are looking for a racy romance read this is probably not for you, but if your looking for an intelligent love story that will give you the feels from the beginning, then this book is for you. Utterly perfect.
Beowulf for Cretins is written solely from Grace's point of view and what a view of life she has. She’s not the most positive person but what she lacks in positivity she gains in her quirky, loveable demeaner and she’s down right hilarious (without knowing it), I had many a chuckle while reading her inner thoughts. I loved Abbie’s character and reading her was a delight. She was a little mysterious, but I felt like I was falling for her along with Grace as her feelings unravel and their relationship blooms. Also, I adored the candour used when Abbie tells Grace her feelings, I don’t think it could be written any other way or she would have been too much of a mystery.
All in all, this is a love story with a difference and I urge readers to give it a go. I can’t wait to pick up my paperback copy for my favourites shelf at home.
Unequivocally 5 stars.
February 17, 2019
I'm not really sure what to write about this book. I loved it (hence the 5 stars) but I don't think I can explain why. The wit, that's one reason. And I really liked the characters. I laughed out loud a couple of times, too, which doesn't happen very often. And it made me feel clever, which is always nice. So probably many small things which, when added, make for a really good novel.
March 5, 2023
4.30 stars 🌟 rounded to 5
June 26, 2018
Take one rather lost and lonely English professor and sit her next to a gorgeous, intellectual and amusing woman on a flight to San Francisco. Bring them back together for a madcap costume party that evening, and make both of them brave enough to step out of their comfort zones and “go there”. That’s the basic plot of Ann McMan’s wonderful short story “Falling from Grace” in her anthology “Sidecar”, which led to the idea of “Beowulf for Cretins”.
Don’t worry if you haven’t read “Sidecar” (although if not why not?) as the slightly amended story is repeated as chapter one of the full-length version. And once Grace and Abbie go their separate ways the morning after the party, with no contact details, not even last names shared, then surely it will take an act of fate, or possibly an act of God, to make their paths cross a second time.
Roll forward and, of course, The Fates intervene; Abbie turns up as the new President of Grace’s college, throwing them together, bringing turmoil, romance, angst and trellis climbing adventure. The conversation gets even more sarcastic and convoluted, the humour more literary, and the passion more overwhelming, as these two amazing women try to find a way forward without threatening Grace’s tenure run, alienating the college board, or making a mockery of Abbie’s professional standing.
Ann McMan has this amazing ability to combine intellectual wordplay with the portrayal of sympathetic characters, charming romances and genuinely wonderful friendships. While our focus must be on the erudite and entertaining main characters and their somewhat tortuous path through the brambles of professional integrity, the ensemble is filled out with absolutely adorable secondary characters and relationships.
There is an extensive cast from the 9 o’clock dog to challenging but foul-mouthed brain of CK, who compares relationships to quantum physics; Grace’s Neanderthal, but heart of gold brother, Dean; the master of the fates Rizzo and the powerful presence of the judgemental mothers for whom these amazing women have never been good enough. And we can’t forget to mention Sister Merry Larry, scourge of the catholic girl’s sexual education, now literally “fallen from grace” and finding fun without any slapping. Add in more complexity by CK making hay with Dean, Rizzo having studied with Abbie, and the whole intricate situation having been already resolved, and you have a glimpse of how much fun this story really is.
Is hard to know where to stop with the praise. The writing is immaculate, the use of language and references to the arts and literature make for extremely scholarly characters, well apart from Dean and Grendel, although Grendel has some great lines, and any author who can use “floccinaucinihilipilification“ in a sensible sentence deserves genuine genuflection.
“Beowulf for Cretins" is not a laugh out loud comedy, more a comedy of errors; producing a constant deep-belly rumble with occasional eruptions of uncontrollable chuckles. I have already read it twice and will happily read it again and again, finding something new to see, some new witticism to understand, and some new empathy for the characters in this superb work.
Don’t worry if you haven’t read “Sidecar” (although if not why not?) as the slightly amended story is repeated as chapter one of the full-length version. And once Grace and Abbie go their separate ways the morning after the party, with no contact details, not even last names shared, then surely it will take an act of fate, or possibly an act of God, to make their paths cross a second time.
Roll forward and, of course, The Fates intervene; Abbie turns up as the new President of Grace’s college, throwing them together, bringing turmoil, romance, angst and trellis climbing adventure. The conversation gets even more sarcastic and convoluted, the humour more literary, and the passion more overwhelming, as these two amazing women try to find a way forward without threatening Grace’s tenure run, alienating the college board, or making a mockery of Abbie’s professional standing.
Ann McMan has this amazing ability to combine intellectual wordplay with the portrayal of sympathetic characters, charming romances and genuinely wonderful friendships. While our focus must be on the erudite and entertaining main characters and their somewhat tortuous path through the brambles of professional integrity, the ensemble is filled out with absolutely adorable secondary characters and relationships.
There is an extensive cast from the 9 o’clock dog to challenging but foul-mouthed brain of CK, who compares relationships to quantum physics; Grace’s Neanderthal, but heart of gold brother, Dean; the master of the fates Rizzo and the powerful presence of the judgemental mothers for whom these amazing women have never been good enough. And we can’t forget to mention Sister Merry Larry, scourge of the catholic girl’s sexual education, now literally “fallen from grace” and finding fun without any slapping. Add in more complexity by CK making hay with Dean, Rizzo having studied with Abbie, and the whole intricate situation having been already resolved, and you have a glimpse of how much fun this story really is.
Is hard to know where to stop with the praise. The writing is immaculate, the use of language and references to the arts and literature make for extremely scholarly characters, well apart from Dean and Grendel, although Grendel has some great lines, and any author who can use “floccinaucinihilipilification“ in a sensible sentence deserves genuine genuflection.
“Beowulf for Cretins" is not a laugh out loud comedy, more a comedy of errors; producing a constant deep-belly rumble with occasional eruptions of uncontrollable chuckles. I have already read it twice and will happily read it again and again, finding something new to see, some new witticism to understand, and some new empathy for the characters in this superb work.
March 13, 2019
This book is quiet good with smart and funny dialogues, and also splendid characters. Ann McMan never disappoints. I loved it !!!
January 25, 2022
I've been meaning to read this book for a while now. I've enjoyed other books by McMan like Jericho and Hoosier Daddy. They're often very funny as well as intellectual characters in places you wouldn't necessarily guess them to be. But I had seen this talked about as more high brow compared to other of her books, with many literary references through it. So while I was interested in this book I wasn't rushing to read it. But I finally did, and I did enjoy it overall though not without reservations.
Beowulf for Cretins follows Grace Warner. Grace meets Abbie on a flight across the country and they immediately hit it off but unfortunately have to part ways after their times in San Francisco ends. But a few months later the college Grace is a professor at hires a new dean of students and she is shocked to see Abbie again. Abbie and Grace know they should stay away from each other due to nature of their jobs and they don't want any impropriety- especially as Grace is trying to get tenure, but they just can't manage to stay apart.
So I did really enjoy this book. I've spent a bit of my life in academia so the settings were fairly familiar to me. So a novel set in a university but not about college age students was fun to experience. I really did enjoy the dynamic between 40somethings. There aren't enough romance novels about people in that age range.
This book definitely borders on instalove but it wasn't a deterrent for me. I felt like it more embodied the trope of one night stand to relationship than instalove, as most of the relationship buildup happened once Abbie and Grace are back together in Vermont.
On that note, the chemistry in this book was really fun. I definitely could feel the vibes between Abbie and Grace right off. They're great together. I enjoyed following their discussions on intellectual topics as well as the passion between them. The side characters really filled out this book too. Grace's blue collar brother, as well as her best friend CK really had good and substantial rolls to this book. I honestly would love to talk to CK about theology and determinism.
Also this book was really funny. In classic Ann McMan ways, there's a fair amount of slapstick but I was into her dialogue even more.
There was an issue I had with this book though, and that was I didn't really appreciate how the characters- particularly Grace talked about a lot of her students. I'm a pretty educated person. I've attended grad school, my parents both have masters degrees, my girlfriend is in law school, and my ex is in a PHD program. I'm surrounded daily by educated people. But no one I know would talk about students like Grace often refers to hers (in private fortunately). Even the name of the book is a reference to it that she teaches "Beowulf for Cretins" with her students being the Cretins. And just that really got under my skin throughout the book. And it's not something that happens once or twice, it happens fairly often though the narrative. I know teachers complain about students, but the way Grace does just doesn't sit well with me. She seems to approach them with an apathy towards different learning styles, different interests, or people just uninterested in the course material.
Also this was all surprising to me to see out of McMan who has written nuanced blue collar side characters in Hoosier Daddy. Maybe this won't bug others like it would me but honestly it annoyed me every time Grace talked about her students.
I did like a lot of this book and I especially liked the chemistry between Grace and Abbie. It was great. But there were also some things that bothered me though the book. 3.5/5
Beowulf for Cretins follows Grace Warner. Grace meets Abbie on a flight across the country and they immediately hit it off but unfortunately have to part ways after their times in San Francisco ends. But a few months later the college Grace is a professor at hires a new dean of students and she is shocked to see Abbie again. Abbie and Grace know they should stay away from each other due to nature of their jobs and they don't want any impropriety- especially as Grace is trying to get tenure, but they just can't manage to stay apart.
So I did really enjoy this book. I've spent a bit of my life in academia so the settings were fairly familiar to me. So a novel set in a university but not about college age students was fun to experience. I really did enjoy the dynamic between 40somethings. There aren't enough romance novels about people in that age range.
This book definitely borders on instalove but it wasn't a deterrent for me. I felt like it more embodied the trope of one night stand to relationship than instalove, as most of the relationship buildup happened once Abbie and Grace are back together in Vermont.
On that note, the chemistry in this book was really fun. I definitely could feel the vibes between Abbie and Grace right off. They're great together. I enjoyed following their discussions on intellectual topics as well as the passion between them. The side characters really filled out this book too. Grace's blue collar brother, as well as her best friend CK really had good and substantial rolls to this book. I honestly would love to talk to CK about theology and determinism.
Also this book was really funny. In classic Ann McMan ways, there's a fair amount of slapstick but I was into her dialogue even more.
There was an issue I had with this book though, and that was I didn't really appreciate how the characters- particularly Grace talked about a lot of her students. I'm a pretty educated person. I've attended grad school, my parents both have masters degrees, my girlfriend is in law school, and my ex is in a PHD program. I'm surrounded daily by educated people. But no one I know would talk about students like Grace often refers to hers (in private fortunately). Even the name of the book is a reference to it that she teaches "Beowulf for Cretins" with her students being the Cretins. And just that really got under my skin throughout the book. And it's not something that happens once or twice, it happens fairly often though the narrative. I know teachers complain about students, but the way Grace does just doesn't sit well with me. She seems to approach them with an apathy towards different learning styles, different interests, or people just uninterested in the course material.
Also this was all surprising to me to see out of McMan who has written nuanced blue collar side characters in Hoosier Daddy. Maybe this won't bug others like it would me but honestly it annoyed me every time Grace talked about her students.
I did like a lot of this book and I especially liked the chemistry between Grace and Abbie. It was great. But there were also some things that bothered me though the book. 3.5/5
October 28, 2022
RE-READ UPDATE: I finally got around to rereading this book and I'm still in love with it. But the romance timeline makes absolutely zero sense and that definitely bothers me, but Ann McMan makes it so I'm not all that hung up on it. It seemed a lot less realistic this read through, though. Also, the main characters in this are super pretentious, but I kind of love them for it. They feel very much in line with academics, at least according to my brief experience in academia, so it makes sense here. But the dialogue in this is wonderful and quite funny. Still 5 stars for me, but I'm admittedly side-eying the romance timeline.
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
Considering my current and fairly strict diet of ff romances, Beowulf for Cretins was shockingly off my radar. And I’ve visited all the recommendation lists like they’re their own page-turning novels because this is the diet I need right now and, let’s face it, the well of enjoyable and well-written novels in the genre aren’t in abundant supply. So I’m a little at a loss for why it was I accidentally stumbled upon this novel rather than what usually happens with me and books—is that I join the party way after it’s ended. Why aren’t more of you reading this book?
The narrative revolves around Grace Warner, a forty-something literature professor at a small New England liberal arts college. She’s trying to bounce back after a difficult long-past breakup and is on the verge of being granted tenure while also struggling to complete the novel she’s been writing for who-knows-how-many-years. But for one weekend she puts it all on hiatus to fly across the country to attend her friend’s birthday party in San Francisco.
On the flight she meets Abbie, who immediately grabs Grace’s attention because she’s beautiful, funny, mysterious, and is casually reading Boccaccio in Latin. They bond over their bad luck and a mutual flirtation that turns into the discovery of a mutual friend and eventually a one-night stand. And that’s it for them. No phone numbers or emails exchanged. Grace doesn’t even know Abbie’s last name. Grace returns to Vermont and Abbie goes back to North Carolina. End of story.
Only it’s not the end of the story. Unbeknownst to either of them, their paths cross when it’s revealed that Abbie is the newly appointed president of the college where Grace teaches. And despite the conflict of interest, they can’t help but continue to seek each other out. Obviously this causes a bit of uncertainty and angst.
Beowulf for Cretins is misclassified as romance. It defies some of the conventions of what I’ve grown to understand about the romance genre. Mainly it lacks those steamy sex scenes. They’re there. They’re certainly implied, but they always fade to black. I guess I would classify it as literary romance—shelved with fiction, not with romance.
Attraction-to-love between Grace and Abbie happens way too quickly, and while that usually turns me off in major ways, I was quickly falling in love with Abbie the same way Grace was. And conversely, I could see why a woman like Abbie would fall in love with Grace. So it didn’t actually bother me here. The more unforgivable trope was their lack of communication about major problems and decisions, but even that was explained away.
I’m pretty sure this will end up on my Read-More-Than-Once shelf really soon. Oh, and did I mention there’s a dog? One that Grace rescues? And names Grendel? I love this book.
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
Considering my current and fairly strict diet of ff romances, Beowulf for Cretins was shockingly off my radar. And I’ve visited all the recommendation lists like they’re their own page-turning novels because this is the diet I need right now and, let’s face it, the well of enjoyable and well-written novels in the genre aren’t in abundant supply. So I’m a little at a loss for why it was I accidentally stumbled upon this novel rather than what usually happens with me and books—is that I join the party way after it’s ended. Why aren’t more of you reading this book?
The narrative revolves around Grace Warner, a forty-something literature professor at a small New England liberal arts college. She’s trying to bounce back after a difficult long-past breakup and is on the verge of being granted tenure while also struggling to complete the novel she’s been writing for who-knows-how-many-years. But for one weekend she puts it all on hiatus to fly across the country to attend her friend’s birthday party in San Francisco.
On the flight she meets Abbie, who immediately grabs Grace’s attention because she’s beautiful, funny, mysterious, and is casually reading Boccaccio in Latin. They bond over their bad luck and a mutual flirtation that turns into the discovery of a mutual friend and eventually a one-night stand. And that’s it for them. No phone numbers or emails exchanged. Grace doesn’t even know Abbie’s last name. Grace returns to Vermont and Abbie goes back to North Carolina. End of story.
Only it’s not the end of the story. Unbeknownst to either of them, their paths cross when it’s revealed that Abbie is the newly appointed president of the college where Grace teaches. And despite the conflict of interest, they can’t help but continue to seek each other out. Obviously this causes a bit of uncertainty and angst.
Beowulf for Cretins is misclassified as romance. It defies some of the conventions of what I’ve grown to understand about the romance genre. Mainly it lacks those steamy sex scenes. They’re there. They’re certainly implied, but they always fade to black. I guess I would classify it as literary romance—shelved with fiction, not with romance.
Attraction-to-love between Grace and Abbie happens way too quickly, and while that usually turns me off in major ways, I was quickly falling in love with Abbie the same way Grace was. And conversely, I could see why a woman like Abbie would fall in love with Grace. So it didn’t actually bother me here. The more unforgivable trope was their lack of communication about major problems and decisions, but even that was explained away.
I’m pretty sure this will end up on my Read-More-Than-Once shelf really soon. Oh, and did I mention there’s a dog? One that Grace rescues? And names Grendel? I love this book.
November 10, 2018
Beowulf for Cretins by Ann McMan is a lovely, hilarious lesbian romance. Anyone who’s read “Falling From Grace” in McMan’s short story collection Sidecar will be familiar with the beginning of this book. Whether you’ve read that or not, though, you’ll be sure to enjoy Beowulf for Cretins—especially if you’re a romance fan.
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/beow...
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/beow...
February 10, 2021
I wanted to love this book, I really did. But I didn’t. After all the glowing reviews I thought it’d be amazing and I was let down. It is funny, but that’s all about it has going for it.
The romance was a little too insta-love for me to really appreciate. The ending was also too perfect, it went a bit beyond my suspension of disbelief. If you’re a bit older and a bit smarter than me, you may enjoy this one.
The romance was a little too insta-love for me to really appreciate. The ending was also too perfect, it went a bit beyond my suspension of disbelief. If you’re a bit older and a bit smarter than me, you may enjoy this one.
March 3, 2023
4,25 stars
I had fun. I liked both the main characters, especially Grace with her penchant for panicking and worrying was very relatable to me. I can't say I was really fond of CK and Dean as supporting characters, because IRL I'd probably hate them. But within the story they weren't that bad.
And I had fun. So many literary jokes in one place. It was truly well written.
I had fun. I liked both the main characters, especially Grace with her penchant for panicking and worrying was very relatable to me. I can't say I was really fond of CK and Dean as supporting characters, because IRL I'd probably hate them. But within the story they weren't that bad.
And I had fun. So many literary jokes in one place. It was truly well written.
August 12, 2018
When Abbie and Grace met the first time, they thought this would only be one awesome night. Obviously they were wrong, and what ensues is sooooo much fun to read. The plot moves forward rapidly, Abbie and Grace have some wonderful friends, and the two women are deeply in love and try to find a way of making things work together. In addition, they are clever and witty as characters and this is shown continuously when they talk or do other things. I love this romance, the way it is written and how they work on overcoming difficulties.
For me, this is definitely a 5 out of 5 stars book.
For me, this is definitely a 5 out of 5 stars book.
January 2, 2019
I loved this book despite features that I normally don't care for, because Ann McMan is an amazing writer. There is insta-love, but that was fine with me in this case. It was believable since I too instantly fell in love with the characters, thanks to their zinging verbal volleys that were laugh-out-loud funny.
Another feature for romances that I'm not crazy about is fade-to-black. However, I found this book pretty steamy, because the attraction of the main characters was written so convincingly.
I will be reading this again, and given the dialog, perhaps listening the audiobook.
Another feature for romances that I'm not crazy about is fade-to-black. However, I found this book pretty steamy, because the attraction of the main characters was written so convincingly.
I will be reading this again, and given the dialog, perhaps listening the audiobook.
June 11, 2018
**Thanks to Sheena from The Lesbian Review Book Club, who drew me name for a book win, Salem West from Bywater Books sent me this book BEFORE its mass release on 26th June 2018 (never experienced this kind of luck before!) and I’m eternally grateful and appreciative for it!! Cheers! 🙏**
Ahh, if you’ve read Ann McMan‘s “Sidecar,” a 4-story anthology, you should know that McMan’s latest, “Beowulf for Cretins,” is an expanded story of “Falling From Grace,” the 3rd short story from “Sidecar” which I thoroughly enjoyed and wondered if McMan would ever consider turning it into a full-length novel. Ha, me wish came true with this fantastic, brilliantly written love story!
First off, no worries if you didn’t read “Falling From Grace” from “Sidecar” because McMan included the short in the beginning. The only thing changed was the location – from Ohio to Vermont. I must say, I love that the locale was shifted to nifty, little New England state, though. 😊
I was immediately hooked from the start. I adored Grace and her dry sense of humour. Her neurotic behaviour was written with such wit I was chuckling as I read along! Grace’s accidental encounter with Abbie whilst on the plane heading to San Francisco and their subsequent convo was one of the wittiest and most delightful dialogue I’ve read. Never mind Grace’s funny internal monologue! 😂 I could feel their instant chemistry as they shared similar interests, their adorable banter, and ok, quoting films, too?! And they didn’t stop at just films. They were quoting poetry, art, literature, philosophy…ahhh!!! Absolutely love it when characters do that! Alright, yes, I’m a complete nerd. An academic nerd, an avid reader and a film/tv buff. So there! And oh, of course, Grace has to be in the field of academia – a college professor! An English professor, to be precise!! I’m positively smitten!!! 😍 Cheers, Ms. McMan! 😉
As both Grace and Abbie thought their encounter would just be a one-time thing, they were destined to meet again, much to their chagrin! Yup, surprise, sur-bloody-prise, guess who turned up on-stage when the new semester began at Grace’s college, being introduced as the college’s first-ever female president in its history?! Yup. That’s right…BULL’S EYE! Of all the coincidences….or, shall we say, D-E-S-T-I-N-Y? Eh? 😉
Whilst Grace was tormented by her constant Catholic guilt, her disastrous past relationship, what have you, Abbie was unexpectedly the one pushing the envelope, so to speak, wanting to still advance their relationship in some shape or form, even though she didn’t know how. Whenever these two were together in private, their attraction and growing feelings for each other were too strong for them to stay away. McMan truly excels in using literary references and turning them into some hilarious expletives, cursing or profoundly enlightening phrases! In this case, Grace had no shortage of spewing some hilarious literary references which I absolutely couldn’t get enough of! Similarly, Abbie held her own and gave Grace a run of her money with equally nerdy, witty, snarky literary comebacks.😆 PLUS, Abbie’s use of the French language….ohhhhhh…now THAT’s another level of *swoon* for me!! 😍
Speaking of making literary references, I was elated that McMan somehow injected physics into her dialogue construction!! Quantum physics, to be precise!!! What?! It’s only me absolute favourite topic in physics/science! Whoever would have thought to equate quantum physics and the Roman Catholic church to enhance the meaning of life? Oh, and algorithms, too! And how about we throw in some illuminating philosophical determinism and existentialism whilst we’re at it, eh? Yup, that’s the genius of McMan!❤ Ahhh….I tell ya, every time I read McMan’s work, not only am I completely entertained with her stories, my gray matter also gets boosted. I feel smarter! 🤓
Because Grace grew up Catholic, taught by Catholics, obviously she was always guilt-ridden by everything around her that wasn’t what was indoctrinated into her psyche by the one person who became her touchstone in how she viewed life and the world at large – Sister Merry Larry. (Ahhh, nuns. Memories!!!😇) And, crikey, when Grace later found out what happened to her “moral compass” in tunic, Grace’s commentary was bloody hilarious! 😆 **Sidenote: Wouldn’t it be a riot if McMan decided to write a short story about Sister Merry Larry and her hysterical antics running around, during her heydey, teaching catechism to young Grace and the other Catholic students, eh! Knowing McMan’s fabulous sense of humour and comedy writing instincts, it’s gonna be a blast reading it! Just saying! 😜**
I simply ❤ Abbie. Her steadfast conviction about her feelings for Grace, no matter how risky her situation was, was so utterly romantic, alluring and passionate. And Grace, being her neurotic self, constantly doubted her worth even though she was quickly falling head-over-heels for the irresistibly gorgeous woman whom she believed was way out of her league! Her constant struggle with herself about her growing attachment to Abbie and her inability to walk away from the object of her desire, the potential threat to her tenure which she’d worked so hard for, and Abbie’s exceptionally bright and pioneering career future that could be jeopardised if she and Abbie continued with their romantic entanglement, was described with absolute fervour, realism and good old humour! 😄
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention those incredible secondary characters who complemented the development and growth of Grace and Abbie’s story. My favourite was Grace’s best mate, CK! OMG, this genius of a woman – so young, so intelligent, so very foul-mouthed (yes!)! But my favourite thing about her was how she, as a physics prodigy, would always apply her thoughts and worldview in quantum physical, mathematical terms, which amazingly sounded poetic! That’s the brilliance that is McMan’s writing. Another memorable character was Abbie’s mother. Ohhhh….those French expressions coming out of her mouth…oooh la la! 😝 You simply must read it so you get to savour and appreciate the utterly delightful exchange between her and Abbie and Grace, yourselves! 😜
I was very grateful that McMan included both Grace and Abbie’s points of view, their own dilemma and struggles, their internal monologue – all written with such finesse I got to have a better understanding of their undeniable chemistry, their deepening love for each other. How McMan structured their characters and the story around them was truly engaging to read. It was addicting. I was racing to find out what was going to happen to these endearing love-struck souls, especially when, obviously, their journey toward HEA was far from being cut-and-dry, what with some unexpected turn of events involving Ochre (a mystery woman in Grace’s life for several years), some unwelcome interest to fend off (oh, just wait until you read the hilarious situation and subsequent exchange between Grace and Abbie in the aftermath! 🤣) and what did the mythological Janus have to do with becoming their talisman? Read and find out! 😉
McMan’s writing is artistry, IMHO. Just look at the title she chose for this fantastic love story. Beowulf. A neurotic dog named Grendel. Religious parallels. Eucatastrophe vs deus ex machina. Free will vs determinism. Fascinating juxtaposition between the epic literature and the cast of characters, religious connotations, events that occurred around Grace and Abbie’s love story.
Love, happiness, faith, dreams – eucatastrophe or deus ex machina?
My favourite line from the book:
“The words were enough to tip the balance of Grace’s tenuous hold on reality. In one dizzy and explosive moment, she surrendered her battle with gravity—and with everything else she’d fought so hard to resist throughout her life. Faith. Happiness. Outcomes that were fair and just. A belief that one day, life would offer up something permanent—an enduring connection that would thrive and grow stronger, instead of withering on the vine of indifference. And love. Love that would last and stand with her through the rest of time.
Here it was. Here it all was—hers for the taking.”
– utterly poetic, lyrical, rhythmic. Music to me ears. Literally.
Bloody hell! It’s no wonder Ann McMan is one of me favourite authors for a long time! All her books are brain foods for me. They always give me thoughts to ponder. “Jericho” has always been me favourite McMan book all these years. Now, “Beowulf for Cretins” has taken over! Abbie and Grace’s love story is one that I will be re-visiting often, that’s a promise! "Beowulf for Cretins" is now one of me favourite lesfic books! Blimey, I’m already in the process of reading it for the 3rd bloody time! Fancy that, eh? 👍😀
If you haven’t realised already, I absolutely ❤😍 this book and I can’t recommend it high enough! So, do yourselves a favour, grab a copy and read it! You won’t regret this absolutely fabulous treat for the heart and the mind! 😊🤟
Well done, Ms. McMan, for yet another crackin’ story! Thanks a lot for giving us this much-deserved couple their complete love story at last!! Cheers, mate! 🙏👌
In Bug's Own Words
Ahh, if you’ve read Ann McMan‘s “Sidecar,” a 4-story anthology, you should know that McMan’s latest, “Beowulf for Cretins,” is an expanded story of “Falling From Grace,” the 3rd short story from “Sidecar” which I thoroughly enjoyed and wondered if McMan would ever consider turning it into a full-length novel. Ha, me wish came true with this fantastic, brilliantly written love story!
First off, no worries if you didn’t read “Falling From Grace” from “Sidecar” because McMan included the short in the beginning. The only thing changed was the location – from Ohio to Vermont. I must say, I love that the locale was shifted to nifty, little New England state, though. 😊
I was immediately hooked from the start. I adored Grace and her dry sense of humour. Her neurotic behaviour was written with such wit I was chuckling as I read along! Grace’s accidental encounter with Abbie whilst on the plane heading to San Francisco and their subsequent convo was one of the wittiest and most delightful dialogue I’ve read. Never mind Grace’s funny internal monologue! 😂 I could feel their instant chemistry as they shared similar interests, their adorable banter, and ok, quoting films, too?! And they didn’t stop at just films. They were quoting poetry, art, literature, philosophy…ahhh!!! Absolutely love it when characters do that! Alright, yes, I’m a complete nerd. An academic nerd, an avid reader and a film/tv buff. So there! And oh, of course, Grace has to be in the field of academia – a college professor! An English professor, to be precise!! I’m positively smitten!!! 😍 Cheers, Ms. McMan! 😉
As both Grace and Abbie thought their encounter would just be a one-time thing, they were destined to meet again, much to their chagrin! Yup, surprise, sur-bloody-prise, guess who turned up on-stage when the new semester began at Grace’s college, being introduced as the college’s first-ever female president in its history?! Yup. That’s right…BULL’S EYE! Of all the coincidences….or, shall we say, D-E-S-T-I-N-Y? Eh? 😉
Whilst Grace was tormented by her constant Catholic guilt, her disastrous past relationship, what have you, Abbie was unexpectedly the one pushing the envelope, so to speak, wanting to still advance their relationship in some shape or form, even though she didn’t know how. Whenever these two were together in private, their attraction and growing feelings for each other were too strong for them to stay away. McMan truly excels in using literary references and turning them into some hilarious expletives, cursing or profoundly enlightening phrases! In this case, Grace had no shortage of spewing some hilarious literary references which I absolutely couldn’t get enough of! Similarly, Abbie held her own and gave Grace a run of her money with equally nerdy, witty, snarky literary comebacks.😆 PLUS, Abbie’s use of the French language….ohhhhhh…now THAT’s another level of *swoon* for me!! 😍
Speaking of making literary references, I was elated that McMan somehow injected physics into her dialogue construction!! Quantum physics, to be precise!!! What?! It’s only me absolute favourite topic in physics/science! Whoever would have thought to equate quantum physics and the Roman Catholic church to enhance the meaning of life? Oh, and algorithms, too! And how about we throw in some illuminating philosophical determinism and existentialism whilst we’re at it, eh? Yup, that’s the genius of McMan!❤ Ahhh….I tell ya, every time I read McMan’s work, not only am I completely entertained with her stories, my gray matter also gets boosted. I feel smarter! 🤓
Because Grace grew up Catholic, taught by Catholics, obviously she was always guilt-ridden by everything around her that wasn’t what was indoctrinated into her psyche by the one person who became her touchstone in how she viewed life and the world at large – Sister Merry Larry. (Ahhh, nuns. Memories!!!😇) And, crikey, when Grace later found out what happened to her “moral compass” in tunic, Grace’s commentary was bloody hilarious! 😆 **Sidenote: Wouldn’t it be a riot if McMan decided to write a short story about Sister Merry Larry and her hysterical antics running around, during her heydey, teaching catechism to young Grace and the other Catholic students, eh! Knowing McMan’s fabulous sense of humour and comedy writing instincts, it’s gonna be a blast reading it! Just saying! 😜**
I simply ❤ Abbie. Her steadfast conviction about her feelings for Grace, no matter how risky her situation was, was so utterly romantic, alluring and passionate. And Grace, being her neurotic self, constantly doubted her worth even though she was quickly falling head-over-heels for the irresistibly gorgeous woman whom she believed was way out of her league! Her constant struggle with herself about her growing attachment to Abbie and her inability to walk away from the object of her desire, the potential threat to her tenure which she’d worked so hard for, and Abbie’s exceptionally bright and pioneering career future that could be jeopardised if she and Abbie continued with their romantic entanglement, was described with absolute fervour, realism and good old humour! 😄
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention those incredible secondary characters who complemented the development and growth of Grace and Abbie’s story. My favourite was Grace’s best mate, CK! OMG, this genius of a woman – so young, so intelligent, so very foul-mouthed (yes!)! But my favourite thing about her was how she, as a physics prodigy, would always apply her thoughts and worldview in quantum physical, mathematical terms, which amazingly sounded poetic! That’s the brilliance that is McMan’s writing. Another memorable character was Abbie’s mother. Ohhhh….those French expressions coming out of her mouth…oooh la la! 😝 You simply must read it so you get to savour and appreciate the utterly delightful exchange between her and Abbie and Grace, yourselves! 😜
I was very grateful that McMan included both Grace and Abbie’s points of view, their own dilemma and struggles, their internal monologue – all written with such finesse I got to have a better understanding of their undeniable chemistry, their deepening love for each other. How McMan structured their characters and the story around them was truly engaging to read. It was addicting. I was racing to find out what was going to happen to these endearing love-struck souls, especially when, obviously, their journey toward HEA was far from being cut-and-dry, what with some unexpected turn of events involving Ochre (a mystery woman in Grace’s life for several years), some unwelcome interest to fend off (oh, just wait until you read the hilarious situation and subsequent exchange between Grace and Abbie in the aftermath! 🤣) and what did the mythological Janus have to do with becoming their talisman? Read and find out! 😉
McMan’s writing is artistry, IMHO. Just look at the title she chose for this fantastic love story. Beowulf. A neurotic dog named Grendel. Religious parallels. Eucatastrophe vs deus ex machina. Free will vs determinism. Fascinating juxtaposition between the epic literature and the cast of characters, religious connotations, events that occurred around Grace and Abbie’s love story.
Love, happiness, faith, dreams – eucatastrophe or deus ex machina?
My favourite line from the book:
“The words were enough to tip the balance of Grace’s tenuous hold on reality. In one dizzy and explosive moment, she surrendered her battle with gravity—and with everything else she’d fought so hard to resist throughout her life. Faith. Happiness. Outcomes that were fair and just. A belief that one day, life would offer up something permanent—an enduring connection that would thrive and grow stronger, instead of withering on the vine of indifference. And love. Love that would last and stand with her through the rest of time.
Here it was. Here it all was—hers for the taking.”
– utterly poetic, lyrical, rhythmic. Music to me ears. Literally.
Bloody hell! It’s no wonder Ann McMan is one of me favourite authors for a long time! All her books are brain foods for me. They always give me thoughts to ponder. “Jericho” has always been me favourite McMan book all these years. Now, “Beowulf for Cretins” has taken over! Abbie and Grace’s love story is one that I will be re-visiting often, that’s a promise! "Beowulf for Cretins" is now one of me favourite lesfic books! Blimey, I’m already in the process of reading it for the 3rd bloody time! Fancy that, eh? 👍😀
If you haven’t realised already, I absolutely ❤😍 this book and I can’t recommend it high enough! So, do yourselves a favour, grab a copy and read it! You won’t regret this absolutely fabulous treat for the heart and the mind! 😊🤟
Well done, Ms. McMan, for yet another crackin’ story! Thanks a lot for giving us this much-deserved couple their complete love story at last!! Cheers, mate! 🙏👌
In Bug's Own Words
August 29, 2018
I just couldn’t get into this one . I purchased it on audible and quit half way through . 😟
January 10, 2020
Smart. Sweet. Clever. Provocative as hell. And never lasting long enough.
What a fun read. The chemistry between the MCs was incredible. It was sort of insta-love which is always a DNF for me except in this case, that's how good this was. The conversations were so witty and enjoyable i never wanted them to stop talking.
“I keep thinking
about what Oscar Wilde said.”
“What’s that?”
Grace sighed. “That there are only two tragedies in
life. One is not getting what you want, and the other is getting it.”
“Which one is this?” Abbie asked.
“You tell me.”
“I’m not sure I know yet.”
The romance was really good but the best part were the dialogues. Will certainly be reading more Ann McMan books.
What a fun read. The chemistry between the MCs was incredible. It was sort of insta-love which is always a DNF for me except in this case, that's how good this was. The conversations were so witty and enjoyable i never wanted them to stop talking.
“I keep thinking
about what Oscar Wilde said.”
“What’s that?”
Grace sighed. “That there are only two tragedies in
life. One is not getting what you want, and the other is getting it.”
“Which one is this?” Abbie asked.
“You tell me.”
“I’m not sure I know yet.”
The romance was really good but the best part were the dialogues. Will certainly be reading more Ann McMan books.
July 18, 2018
At first the very smart and snappy dialogue is appealing, but, after a while, it feels like you are watching a Howard Hawks movie and the witty zingers grew old and weary and you almost want to scream. That, combined with an angst I just would rather not feel right now, is making me file this away (mentally) under my "to possibly be read again someday" pile. Ann McMan is a terrific writer _and_ the title itself is also terrific. What is in between the covers, though, does not grab me, but (as is the case with another book I read recently) is most likely entirely my problem.
November 14, 2018
I liked the premise of this book. Both characters were great. There are quite a few coincidences that occur that you just kind of have to accept...especially in the first quarter or so. Also, fade to black is a little frustrating at times.
June 26, 2018
‘A belief that one day, life would offer up something permanent’
North Carolina author Ann McMan has a gift like few other authors: she knows how to blend comedy and sensitivity to human issues so seamlessly that reading her novels is like looking into the mirror – not only the one in your home but also the funny distorted ones we used to see in the Fun House. She to date has penned five novels – JERICHO, BOTTLE ROCKET, DUST, GOLDENROD, AFTERMATH, HOOSIER DADDY, BACKCAST, SIDECAR, JUNE MAGEE, RN FESTIVAL NURSE, THREE and now BEOWULF FOR CRETINS.
In this delightfully witty diversion of a story she offers a synopsis of where the main points rest: ‘English professor and aspiring novelist, Grace Warner spends her days teaching four sections of "Beowulf for Cretins" to bored and disinterested students at one of New England's “hidden ivy” colleges. Not long after she is dumped by her longtime girlfriend, Grace meets the engaging and mysterious Abbie on a cross-country flight. Sparks fly on and off the plane as the two strangers give in to one night of reckless passion with no strings attached, and no contact information exchanged. Back home at St. Albans, the college rocks Grace's world when it announces the appointment of a new president, the first woman in its 165-year history. Cue Abbie—and cue Grace's collision course with a neurotic dog named Grendel, a fractious rival for tenure, and a woman called Ochre, in what very well might be Grace's last real shot at happiness.’
Funny, smart, informed, and very tender this is a superb novel of multiple levels of interpretation, Ann shows once again that she is not only a fine tale spinner, but also an excellent craftswoman as well!
North Carolina author Ann McMan has a gift like few other authors: she knows how to blend comedy and sensitivity to human issues so seamlessly that reading her novels is like looking into the mirror – not only the one in your home but also the funny distorted ones we used to see in the Fun House. She to date has penned five novels – JERICHO, BOTTLE ROCKET, DUST, GOLDENROD, AFTERMATH, HOOSIER DADDY, BACKCAST, SIDECAR, JUNE MAGEE, RN FESTIVAL NURSE, THREE and now BEOWULF FOR CRETINS.
In this delightfully witty diversion of a story she offers a synopsis of where the main points rest: ‘English professor and aspiring novelist, Grace Warner spends her days teaching four sections of "Beowulf for Cretins" to bored and disinterested students at one of New England's “hidden ivy” colleges. Not long after she is dumped by her longtime girlfriend, Grace meets the engaging and mysterious Abbie on a cross-country flight. Sparks fly on and off the plane as the two strangers give in to one night of reckless passion with no strings attached, and no contact information exchanged. Back home at St. Albans, the college rocks Grace's world when it announces the appointment of a new president, the first woman in its 165-year history. Cue Abbie—and cue Grace's collision course with a neurotic dog named Grendel, a fractious rival for tenure, and a woman called Ochre, in what very well might be Grace's last real shot at happiness.’
Funny, smart, informed, and very tender this is a superb novel of multiple levels of interpretation, Ann shows once again that she is not only a fine tale spinner, but also an excellent craftswoman as well!
August 21, 2018
DNF at 216 pages. It started out with a promising premise, but it's gotten so boring, I'm pretty sure it's terminal.
The plot isn't a plot. They keep talking about how they shouldn't be seeing each other, seeing each other anyway, and not doing anything to try and reconcile that. They keep bringing up the fact that their relationship is totally unethical but then just keep going anyway, and despite paying lip service to discretion, are totally cavalier about the possibility that someone will find out, for all the world like it's not professional suicide. Two-thirds of the way through the story and neither of them has taken any steps or even given any concrete thought as to what, realistically, they're going to do about the situation. I get every impression that a magical solution is just going to fall into their laps, and I'm not reading a hundred more pages just for that bullshit.
The secondary characters are nothing but plot devices, lacking personality or motivation, existing solely to push the main characters from point A to point B. Lorrie in particular is ridiculous and pathetic; she's a caricature of a 12-year-old with a crush, not a grown adult with a life and a job. And I'm sorry, but you're going to have to try a lot damn harder if you want to make a Trump supporter into a lovable buffoon, which seems to be what the author is going for with Dean.
The constant witticisms and one-liners also got real old, real fast. The first couple conversations were cute and funny, but nobody talks like that all the time. It's like an Aaron Sorkin show without the substance.
But the worst sin here is that it's a romance and I don't buy the romance. The characters meet once and are suddenly so mad for each other that they're willing to risk both their careers over a one night stand and some clever remarks? It doesn't even have any smut to compensate; it's all fade-to-black, meaning we can only assume it's a physical thing, and we just have to take the narrator's word for how great the sex is. Blegh.
The plot isn't a plot. They keep talking about how they shouldn't be seeing each other, seeing each other anyway, and not doing anything to try and reconcile that. They keep bringing up the fact that their relationship is totally unethical but then just keep going anyway, and despite paying lip service to discretion, are totally cavalier about the possibility that someone will find out, for all the world like it's not professional suicide. Two-thirds of the way through the story and neither of them has taken any steps or even given any concrete thought as to what, realistically, they're going to do about the situation. I get every impression that a magical solution is just going to fall into their laps, and I'm not reading a hundred more pages just for that bullshit.
The secondary characters are nothing but plot devices, lacking personality or motivation, existing solely to push the main characters from point A to point B. Lorrie in particular is ridiculous and pathetic; she's a caricature of a 12-year-old with a crush, not a grown adult with a life and a job. And I'm sorry, but you're going to have to try a lot damn harder if you want to make a Trump supporter into a lovable buffoon, which seems to be what the author is going for with Dean.
The constant witticisms and one-liners also got real old, real fast. The first couple conversations were cute and funny, but nobody talks like that all the time. It's like an Aaron Sorkin show without the substance.
But the worst sin here is that it's a romance and I don't buy the romance. The characters meet once and are suddenly so mad for each other that they're willing to risk both their careers over a one night stand and some clever remarks? It doesn't even have any smut to compensate; it's all fade-to-black, meaning we can only assume it's a physical thing, and we just have to take the narrator's word for how great the sex is. Blegh.
November 14, 2018
I began listening to this book a rainy day stuck in my car when my GPS informed me that a 10-minutes trip had morphed into a 90-min one.
I didn't get very far because it switched back to 20-min and I didn't get back to it until last week, where I found myself very motivated to indulging myself in two simultanuous hobbys, books and food.
So I found myself cutting vegetables (okay and sometimes more fatty sugary thingy too) while
listening to the voice of Christine Williams.
I was a bit fed up by the sultry voice of the Abby character.
Knowing Ann McMan style, I was expecting the very slow pace, but I didn't enjoy the systemic ... (how do you say "joutes verbales" in English ? ) over-the-top-witty-dialogues full of double entendre of the two main. That got boring and there are a lot of them.
That said, I should have switched to the Kindle version to advance faster or DNF the book.
But.
The Grace character got under my skin.
Witty, funny, sacarstic, deseperatly nice under her sardonic thoughts, and surrounded by a colourful cast of friends, coworkers, students and family.
And with a self-confidence barometer barely reaching above zero, which provide a confusing and charming duality to the character.
In two words. Absolutely Endearing
I was really hooked at 75% though beware that slow means slow.
And to fill your eyes with questions, I shall add that the dog storyline was maybe obvious but still perfect.
I didn't get very far because it switched back to 20-min and I didn't get back to it until last week, where I found myself very motivated to indulging myself in two simultanuous hobbys, books and food.
So I found myself cutting vegetables (okay and sometimes more fatty sugary thingy too) while
listening to the voice of Christine Williams.
I was a bit fed up by the sultry voice of the Abby character.
Knowing Ann McMan style, I was expecting the very slow pace, but I didn't enjoy the systemic ... (how do you say "joutes verbales" in English ? ) over-the-top-witty-dialogues full of double entendre of the two main. That got boring and there are a lot of them.
That said, I should have switched to the Kindle version to advance faster or DNF the book.
But.
The Grace character got under my skin.
Witty, funny, sacarstic, deseperatly nice under her sardonic thoughts, and surrounded by a colourful cast of friends, coworkers, students and family.
And with a self-confidence barometer barely reaching above zero, which provide a confusing and charming duality to the character.
In two words. Absolutely Endearing
I was really hooked at 75% though beware that slow means slow.
And to fill your eyes with questions, I shall add that the dog storyline was maybe obvious but still perfect.
August 24, 2024
I honestly adored Abby in this story. But other than that it was a bit bland and boring.
December 25, 2021
If you love literature as much as I do, you'll simply adore this book!
It brought me back to my studies in English, French and Italian literature... Boccaccio? Petrarca and even Italo Calvino? Chaucer, Beowulf, Camus!
The humor is so sophisticated that it can only mean one thing: this author is really good at writing and has a deep knowledge of literature, art and science. Plus the references to movies like Casablanca are the cherry on the top of the cake.
I laughed so much and this was a great Christmas present for me.
I loved all main characters, Grace with her awkwardness and sweetness, Abbie with her stunning and flirtatious mind (my brain has a secret crush on her, and the French language touch... to die for! What an attractive character!), and CK, which I absolutely adored! Genious dialogues!
This is another level of humor, for which you need to know certain things in order to appreciate it.
I couldn't put it... It's an hommage to literature, seriously! It seduced me with each and single word of it.
I really cannot wait to read more books by Ann McMan!
It brought me back to my studies in English, French and Italian literature... Boccaccio? Petrarca and even Italo Calvino? Chaucer, Beowulf, Camus!
The humor is so sophisticated that it can only mean one thing: this author is really good at writing and has a deep knowledge of literature, art and science. Plus the references to movies like Casablanca are the cherry on the top of the cake.
I laughed so much and this was a great Christmas present for me.
I loved all main characters, Grace with her awkwardness and sweetness, Abbie with her stunning and flirtatious mind (my brain has a secret crush on her, and the French language touch... to die for! What an attractive character!), and CK, which I absolutely adored! Genious dialogues!
This is another level of humor, for which you need to know certain things in order to appreciate it.
I couldn't put it... It's an hommage to literature, seriously! It seduced me with each and single word of it.
I really cannot wait to read more books by Ann McMan!
July 26, 2018
4.5 stars.
This is excellent. Truly exceptional and I enjoyed every bit of it. My only critique is that I sometimes felt there was too much space left for the reader to fill in, especially when it came to the dialogue between characters. The characters all talked around issues rather than talking about them. While the prose was undoubtedly witty and beautiful, it also had me straining a bit farther for meaning than I’m comfortable with. But otherwise I loved this.
This is excellent. Truly exceptional and I enjoyed every bit of it. My only critique is that I sometimes felt there was too much space left for the reader to fill in, especially when it came to the dialogue between characters. The characters all talked around issues rather than talking about them. While the prose was undoubtedly witty and beautiful, it also had me straining a bit farther for meaning than I’m comfortable with. But otherwise I loved this.
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