Fanny Bower Puts Herself Out There

by Julia Ariss

Fanny Bower is not a joiner. She leads a quiet existence - keeping to the sidelines, avoiding high jinks, living in her head and waiting for something momentous to happen. A few weeks into a new job, at the urging of her socially savvy colleague, she decides to begin afresh to conquer her fears and release her inner dynamo – whatever that is.
Her inaugural foray at an office cocktail reception goes horribly awry when she finds herself caught up in mayhem and thrust into the spotlight, placing her at odds with her handsome and uber-powerful employer who takes a dim view of her shenanigans. Determined to fix her crippling social anxiety, stay employed, and discover her life’s purpose, she puts herself out there. Her new “butterfly wings” are tested as they flutter incessantly between mystifying small talk and mortifying gaffes in a bid to unleash a charm offensive – whatever that means.
At the very height of her confusion, she is spurred to action by the plight of a friend. She plunges headlong into a situation fraught with uncertainty and risks everything, including the alienation of the one person she’s managed to captivate in the process. Fans of quirky romantic satire will find Fanny’s journey irresistible.

Genres: Romance, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Ebooks, Amazon, Fiction

172 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 24, 2013

About the author

Julia Ariss grew up in Nova Scotia and has lived in London, England as well as Toronto and Calgary. She currently resides in Kingston, Ontario. She has held various positions including that of a frontline social worker in Toronto.

Reviews

[ꕥ Ange_Lives_To_Read ꕥ · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was a free kindle book, and it seems that most readers enjoyed it so I’m in the minority here, but what little I read of the story was just implausible and dumb. It reminded me a lot of Bridget Jones Diary except not funny. The main character Fanny is constantly thrown together with her handsome, rich, single boss who finds all the stupid messes she gets into enchanting.

[Ginger Harvey · Rating 3 out of 5]

3&1/2 stars
A very sweet story. I truly enjoyed it.

[Nikki Dennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

What's Not to Like?

Fanny is a quirky, endearing character who reminded me a little of Eleanor Oliphant. A humorous, easy read, which also touches on serious social issues, and a lovely ending.

[Frances Hudson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review

Really enjoyed this novel and different setting of Toronto Canada. Interesting heroine. Author presented all her quirks and foibles in a really gentle but humorous way.

[Amanda LaPrad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Its a slow read only reason i gave it 4 stars

[Sonia Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting

To see the life of an introvert to say the least. It was a good book that kept me piqued till the end.

[Kelila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably more 3.5 stars - rounded up for the sheer enjoyment of reading an expertly-crafted introverted protagonist. A charming modern-day loose adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. But...

It could use a solid editor. Sometimes the language is a bit too formal. Sometimes some of the deliberate spelling anomalies don’t immediately come across as being on purpose to make a point, so they’re more distracting than funny. Some proofreading needed toward the end of the book, and the book ends all too abruptly. Pace goes from comfortable to 120mph in the last few pages.

Still, these are forgivable. Would recommend.

[Caitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute little romance, with some ties to Jane Austen's work, especially Pride & Prejudice.

Fanny Bower is an introvert, happier in small gatherings, and needing time alone to recharge. But she's determined to change that, mostly with the help of a pushy co-worker, attending parties and fundraisers and actually talking to strangers. She's still settling into her new job, and doesn't recognize her new employer, saying some things she regrets later--and her attempts to leave the party end with her caught up in some protesters, bringing unwanted attention her way.

She doesn't want to make waves, but Fanny can't help but feel moved when she sees someone in trouble--if she extends herself too far, she's likely to topple. And her new wings are untested, so she might soar, or plummet.

Fanny is a great protagonist for the bookish and introverted--a character who proves that there's nothing wrong with being either. The romance aspect is rushed at the end, but develops nicely if slowly throughout the story. A quick read for romance fans, and people who find themselves lost in a crowd.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, I admit, the title caught my eye,didn't even read a sample and I jumped on it and so, readers,should you .If you want a story that reads like you're reading about yourself or one of your friends( only way more interesting!),buy it.Fanny's struggles with self doubt hit a chord I keep hidden deep within but unfortunately I don't possess the talent of Julia Ariss but I am hoping she keeps going and writes a ton of books . Especially with intelligent hunks like Jack and even supporting characters like Katherine who reminds me of a couple of wonderful women I have met in my life. Erasto's story tugged at my heart and I am so glad it ended well so, read it, I don't think you will be disappointment!

[Elizabeth Keysian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and the author’s style and originality. There was a fair bit of channelling Jane Austen, in some places it was a bit too obvious. I struggle to finish a book these days, but there were times I couldn’t put this book down. There were a few proofreading errors but they didn’t detract because the story was so good. I’d have given the book 5 stars only I was disappointed with the ending. I kind of wanted to rewrite it- we’d been building up to the Big Reveal so long, I wanted more passion, more hyperbole, even just a bit more conversation between H and H would have been good. But maybe other readers prefer to have more left to the imagination- it wouldn’t stop me reading another of this author’s books.

[Marla · Rating 4 out of 5]

As an introvert, I enjoyed this book. I liked how it showed that introverts aren't necessarily reclusive, some of us do well with one-on-one settings and not in big crowds. I read this on the plane coming back from London and it was an enjoyable ebook to entertain me. Caitlin seems like she is still really trying to find what she is passionate about as she struggles with her feelings for Jack who runs the company she currently works for. He seems to be drawn to her as he shows up places where she is and also gives her certain looks. I found this very enjoyable and entertaining. It was just right for a summer read.

[Alwyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

really enjoyed this book very witty and hilarious in some parts, seeing a spider on her shoulder to then faint and land in the water only to be rescued by jack, to name one. fanny who tries to be out going and join in with everybody when really she just wanted the solitude. loved the relationship between fanny and jack with fanny completely misunderstanding the man which made this book so enjoyable. even the relationship she had with her father was adorable. loved the whole make up of this book a great read!

[Beth Camp · Rating 3 out of 5]

Described as a Jane Austin-like tale, Fanny's adventures begin with humor and self-awareness as she resolves to overcome her many failings as a social butterfly. She blurts out the most outrageous opinions and finds herself in hot water repeatedly. But there's something about Fanny that draws the reader into the story. Because this novel is set in Toronto, British humor and colloquialisms abound. To quote Fanny, "A worthwhile effort" -- complete with villains and heroes. And by the end, Fanny "scrubs up nicely."

[Jana Eichhorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

First things first: extra points to the author for being a total Janeite. From one to another.

Also, finally! An author who doesn't view introversion as a problem to be resolved! An introvert character is ALWAYS "cured" by the ned of the tale, and it's not fun to see yourself as the Before picture every time. This book didn't do that, and it was refreshing to say the least.

I had a good time with this one.

[Kimrey Levy-Mickelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book over two years ago and gave it 3 stars. I find myself still thinking about this book and that I enjoyed reading it, it was fun and fresh. I'm here today to upgrade my rating to 4 stars, it's not a classic, but it sure was a great read when I just needed a break from real life.
I will definitely read more of her work!!

[Judy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the aspect of the main character's attempt to overcome her introversion (although apparently she didn't realize that until it was pointed out to her) by accepting all invitations and trying to put herself out there. In the beginning the writing seemed awkward, but as it went along I came to like Fanny and stopped noticing the awkwardness.

[Darcysmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fanny Bower is sweet, smart, and adorably awkward when she attempts to step out of her social comfort zone.
Fanny's attempts at being a social butterfly are both hilarious and painful. Getting a front row seat to her journey of self-discovery is fantastic. I was sad when the book ended - I would have happily followed Fanny's adventures for hundreds more pages.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Please Julia Ariss, turn it into a series. Being an introvert myself and having struggled to fit in, I could really relate. That aside, I really enjoyed the story, the characters and dry humor. I couldn't put it down. On a scale of one to five stars, I give it a ten (yes I did mean to say ten)! I can't wait for another book.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delightful, light read

We get to follow Fanny as she explores herself and comes to terms with who she is. This light read allows us a glimpse into what it means to be an introvert caught up in an extroverted world and trying to adapt ones self to be more like everyone else. Fanny is a delight.

[Jeanne Johnston · Rating 3 out of 5]

Self discovery with a romantic topper

Biggest shock was that Fanny didn't seem to know she was an introvert until she was told. The entire story screamed it... Or maybe it was just obvious to someone who is one herself. Easy to root for her, and a satisfying--if abrupt--conclusion.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read this book a few times and always enjoy it. It is secular--- generally about coming to terms with introversion.

[Belinda Brannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful book that was very well written. I loved the character of Fanny, and being an introvert myself could relate to her and her fears.
I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.

[James Mooney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Confusing at first

But digging in further caught my interest and put the personalities into a
Perspective I could recognize . As the story. Progressed I took keen interest and really enjoyed it to conclusion.

[Barbara George · Rating 4 out of 5]

Socialite in training.

Naturally shy Fanny is pushing herself into the world of social outings with difficult consequences but fearless, she accepts life as it happens and finds her own form of happiness.

[Loraine Hill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easy Read

A light and easy read about a woman trying to fit into what she perceives she should be. She eventually knows who she is and becomes comfortable in her own skin... being an introvert is o.k

[Staciel · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I enjoyed this one.. I relate to Fanny's awkwardness in social situations, and enjoyed reading along as she discovered herself.

[Ianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too short

this book ended too suddenly. there should have been more on the blossoming relationship. I enjoyed reading the book though !

[J.J. Lair · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an amusing story of someone finding her self. The story moves at a quick and enjoyable pace. I enjoyed it.

[Sarahanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The characters were natural and felt real. Their victories and the cringe worthy moments played out realistically. I was eager to see what would happen.

[bex · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable light read.