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Beautiful Fools Duet #1
Beautiful Little Fool
A coming-of-age story, this feminist twist on the Great Gatsby will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew...
Daisy put everything on the line for love, only to be left broken and alone when her love shipped out to the Great War without so much as a goodbye. Now her parents plan to marry her off to the next rich man who looks her way and she doesn't have the fight left in her to protest...
Until Jordan comes along.
Jordan is unapologetically bold. She knows what she wants and always goes after it... until she falls hard for the girl next door, who happens to be her best friend. Speaking up could cost her everything, especially if Daisy doesn't feel the same, but staying silent has a high price, too. Her happiness.
Both stand to lose everything... including each other.
With stakes this high, will they find the courage to go after what they want, or will they follow societal expectations straight to miserable ever after?
Daisy put everything on the line for love, only to be left broken and alone when her love shipped out to the Great War without so much as a goodbye. Now her parents plan to marry her off to the next rich man who looks her way and she doesn't have the fight left in her to protest...
Until Jordan comes along.
Jordan is unapologetically bold. She knows what she wants and always goes after it... until she falls hard for the girl next door, who happens to be her best friend. Speaking up could cost her everything, especially if Daisy doesn't feel the same, but staying silent has a high price, too. Her happiness.
Both stand to lose everything... including each other.
With stakes this high, will they find the courage to go after what they want, or will they follow societal expectations straight to miserable ever after?
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2022
108 people are currently reading
583 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Zane
13 books64 followersSarah Zane is an author of happy endings for traumatized queers. As a bisexual, it should be shocking to no one that she has more than one genre she loves and writes. She writes across genres but guarantees that a Sarah Zane book will always be queer and always have a happy ending eventually. She has a particular fondness for writing sapphic pairings since they tend to be underrepresented in books. She lives in New England with her 2 black cats named Gatsby and Mr. Darcy. When she isn't writing, she can be usually be found taking forest walks, visiting castles, planning exotic trips she can't afford, or cuddled up with one of her cats crying over fictional characters or yelling at them about how badly they need therapy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 2, 2022
I’m so excited for the next book because this one was really great! I wasn’t a big fan of The Great Gatsby when I had to read it back in high school, but I guess this means I might’ve liked it if it was gayer? The relationship between Jordan and Daisy was well-written; I liked reading Daisy’s veiled thoughts about Jordan and Jordan’s lesbian yearning for her closest friend. Though the men in this book are all evil, they were well-developed and their actions, though disgusting, were thoroughly realistic and convincing. I’m really glad that I got a chance to read through this one before its release this June!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2023
2 stars is more about me than it is about this book.
It appears that even if it’s Sapphic (and as much as I wished otherwise) I still don’t vibe with the Great Gatsby.
It appears that even if it’s Sapphic (and as much as I wished otherwise) I still don’t vibe with the Great Gatsby.
June 8, 2022
I went into this story a little blind knowing it was being hyped as the feminist re-telling of The Great Gatsby. Full disclosure - I've never read it, and although I did once watch the movie, I don't recall much about it.
Sarah Zane can obviously write beautifully. Her characters are well developed and as the reader it was easy to be transported back to a time I am so thankful I never lived in. How painful it must have been to be a women with no rights.
This story was painfully sweet. The silent love which builds between Jordan and Daisy, while they simultaneously try to satisfy the demands of society and their family's expectations is bittersweet.
Beautiful Little Fool is a cleverly written book, which will play with your emotions and leave you wanting more...luckily it seems like a book two is in the making!
I recieved an ARC via BookSprout for my honest review
Sarah Zane can obviously write beautifully. Her characters are well developed and as the reader it was easy to be transported back to a time I am so thankful I never lived in. How painful it must have been to be a women with no rights.
This story was painfully sweet. The silent love which builds between Jordan and Daisy, while they simultaneously try to satisfy the demands of society and their family's expectations is bittersweet.
Beautiful Little Fool is a cleverly written book, which will play with your emotions and leave you wanting more...luckily it seems like a book two is in the making!
I recieved an ARC via BookSprout for my honest review
January 19, 2025
i enjoyed this! definitely going to read the second one. my one complaint was that it was very repetitive, i felt that the author said the same version of a sentence like 25 times, but other than that i liked it! i also wish we had a little more of jordan’s pov but i guess i see why we didn’t. i can’t wait to see what they do to work this out
July 12, 2023
Sloooooooooooow burn (and let’s be honest very little burn to be had) but still such a fun read
November 28, 2025
As much as I tried to like this book, it wasn’t for me.
Spanning between the summer of 1917 through the fall of 1919 in Louisville, KY(?) and a feminine twist on the Great Gatsby. Beyond a few mentions of WWI and how long it took to travel between towns, there wasn’t much to give the impression of the time period the story took place. It’s not something I’m usually picky about. However, there wasn’t any descriptions on the style of vehicles, clothing, or anything else from the time period that was described and could have made me feel immersed in the setting.
The story is told in past tense first person, dual POV. I wasn’t a fan of the story being told like it had already occurred. It works for movies but not for me with books. It is dual POV but the first quarter of the story is solely of Daisy’s perspective and when we finally get Jordan’s view, it’s a repeat of what has already happened with some internal dialogue from Jordan.
It’s also supposed to be a bi-awakening and f/f story but it was at the 85% mark before feelings were shared/realized between the MC.
The ending is left open with no clear HEA but to be continued for book two. Unfortunately, this didn’t capture my interest enough to keep going.
All in all, it wasn’t like any HR I read and fell short for me.
Beautiful Little Fool is the first book in the duet. This was a new to me author and I found this book during a free book blast.
There are a few fade to black scenes and no on page open door encounters.
Be sure to check out TW the author provides in the front of the book.
Spanning between the summer of 1917 through the fall of 1919 in Louisville, KY(?) and a feminine twist on the Great Gatsby. Beyond a few mentions of WWI and how long it took to travel between towns, there wasn’t much to give the impression of the time period the story took place. It’s not something I’m usually picky about. However, there wasn’t any descriptions on the style of vehicles, clothing, or anything else from the time period that was described and could have made me feel immersed in the setting.
The story is told in past tense first person, dual POV. I wasn’t a fan of the story being told like it had already occurred. It works for movies but not for me with books. It is dual POV but the first quarter of the story is solely of Daisy’s perspective and when we finally get Jordan’s view, it’s a repeat of what has already happened with some internal dialogue from Jordan.
It’s also supposed to be a bi-awakening and f/f story but it was at the 85% mark before feelings were shared/realized between the MC.
The ending is left open with no clear HEA but to be continued for book two. Unfortunately, this didn’t capture my interest enough to keep going.
All in all, it wasn’t like any HR I read and fell short for me.
Beautiful Little Fool is the first book in the duet. This was a new to me author and I found this book during a free book blast.
There are a few fade to black scenes and no on page open door encounters.
Be sure to check out TW the author provides in the front of the book.
July 5, 2023
I can’t say how much i missed a good vintage romance till I devoured the first chapter of this book on an Uber a couple days ago. And then I just ended this book like my life depend on that. Is such a good book for hopeless -and not hopeless like me- romantics that want something new. A great way to enjoy the old/great Gatsby era with feminist and queer touch. I loved loved loved Daisy and Jordan and want to be as optimist as the first one being as badass as the second. Such a good book that I’m so so glad I found it
Read
October 1, 2024update - the sequel is coming so freaking soon and I'm so excited for people to get to read it
Want to read
June 29, 2022Here for any and all queer Gatsby reimaginings (not that there’s much to reimagine to make it queer lol) but especially for one focused on Daisy, as this is and always will be a Tom Buchanan hate account.
June 2, 2023
Another fun and fabulous author that I met at 2023 Books, Gowns, & Crowns book convention.
"Forbidden love. A reputation in ruins. How much will she risk for a happy ending?"
Well the happy ending is yet to be determined as we all wait on book two to be released, but I must say that this book left me on the edge of my seat with anticipation for each chapter and left me most lonely at the end. I can't honestly say that this was my favorite book, but I have a high suspicion that book 2 will change that for this series.
This Gatsby inspired novel is a journey of character growth, discovery of sexuality and of who Daisy is with and without certain individuals in her life, as well as trying to survive a harsh and judgmental man's world of the 1920s. I loved Daisy's perspective for most of the book, they were so heartfelt and you can tell this woman is primarily made of sugar and hope while Jordan is practical and spice.
There is the depth of friendship and that thin line of possibilities of where friendships can go or end that these characters explore, and while the story did not turn out as I had anticipated, I am looking forward to forward to the second book to give me closure for this story.
"Forbidden love. A reputation in ruins. How much will she risk for a happy ending?"
Well the happy ending is yet to be determined as we all wait on book two to be released, but I must say that this book left me on the edge of my seat with anticipation for each chapter and left me most lonely at the end. I can't honestly say that this was my favorite book, but I have a high suspicion that book 2 will change that for this series.
This Gatsby inspired novel is a journey of character growth, discovery of sexuality and of who Daisy is with and without certain individuals in her life, as well as trying to survive a harsh and judgmental man's world of the 1920s. I loved Daisy's perspective for most of the book, they were so heartfelt and you can tell this woman is primarily made of sugar and hope while Jordan is practical and spice.
There is the depth of friendship and that thin line of possibilities of where friendships can go or end that these characters explore, and while the story did not turn out as I had anticipated, I am looking forward to forward to the second book to give me closure for this story.
May 16, 2022
If you would have asked 17yr old me I never would have been able to predict that I'd bee sitting here rooting for Daisy Buchanan of all people to get a happy ending. Sarah has done such a wonderful job with writing this book that it makes the reader feel like F. Scott Fitzgerald actually chose to go back and write a prequel for The Great Gatsby. (You know assuming he was actually able to get over his 20th century mindset and actually wrote a story for Daisy)
Nearly 100 years after the release of the original book and I'm still just as frustrated with Jay Gatsby and his life decisions as I was in the original novel. But the story Sarah gives the reader about Daisy's history before F. Scotts book leaves you feeling even more devastated for how things turn out for Daisy, Jordan, Tom, and Gatsby at the end of his novel. In short if you really liked the Great Gatsby read this book because you'll love it.
Nearly 100 years after the release of the original book and I'm still just as frustrated with Jay Gatsby and his life decisions as I was in the original novel. But the story Sarah gives the reader about Daisy's history before F. Scotts book leaves you feeling even more devastated for how things turn out for Daisy, Jordan, Tom, and Gatsby at the end of his novel. In short if you really liked the Great Gatsby read this book because you'll love it.
June 9, 2022
I absolutely adored this bisexual romance set in a time where women were mens property and were expected to stay pure until marriage!
Daisy Fay is the sweetheart of Louisville until an indiscretion leaves her and her family shamed.
Jordan is her best friend who supports and loves her through thick and thin.
It ended in a cliffhanger so huge I need to read the next one as soon as possible!
The ups and downs, heartbreaks and loving moments had me in tears, smiling or shouting in anger at every turn of the page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Daisy Fay is the sweetheart of Louisville until an indiscretion leaves her and her family shamed.
Jordan is her best friend who supports and loves her through thick and thin.
It ended in a cliffhanger so huge I need to read the next one as soon as possible!
The ups and downs, heartbreaks and loving moments had me in tears, smiling or shouting in anger at every turn of the page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2025
A The Great Gatsby prequel where we meet Daisy before she's married to Tom and learn that Jay is not the only one longing for her.
Beautiful Little Fool was very heavy on dialogue. I wish there had been more action so we could see these characters living life. Maybe Daisy and Jordan go golfing. Something other than the big debutant ball.
It was a very slow burn leading up to the big, explosive kiss between Daisy and Jordan. Maybe most of the romance between them is in book two. Speaking of book two, I'm not sure why there is a book two. This story probably could be told in one. Not sure if I'll continue but I am a little curious.
Beautiful Little Fool was very heavy on dialogue. I wish there had been more action so we could see these characters living life. Maybe Daisy and Jordan go golfing. Something other than the big debutant ball.
It was a very slow burn leading up to the big, explosive kiss between Daisy and Jordan. Maybe most of the romance between them is in book two. Speaking of book two, I'm not sure why there is a book two. This story probably could be told in one. Not sure if I'll continue but I am a little curious.
May 9, 2022
Thank you to the lovely author for allowing me to read her debut novel!
This book was incredible! Its such an easy read that flows well and has you wanting to read on and find out what’s going to happen next! The characters are incredible and the romance in this book has you so excited to read on!
I can’t wait to find out more of Daisy and Jordan’s story in the next book!
Everyone go preorder this book because you won’t want to miss it when its released!
This book was incredible! Its such an easy read that flows well and has you wanting to read on and find out what’s going to happen next! The characters are incredible and the romance in this book has you so excited to read on!
I can’t wait to find out more of Daisy and Jordan’s story in the next book!
Everyone go preorder this book because you won’t want to miss it when its released!
March 29, 2024
Not that I'm a fan of the Great Gatsby, yawn, but not even the prospect of lesbianism made it entertaining. I usually enjoy dual points of view, but in this case, it made the book much longer than it needed to be. Spoiler alert it's 95% straight-make the most out of the shitty situation, and 5% sapphic. And not a great ending. I felt like I was reading pulp fiction. And then maybe a sequel? Idk if I'd fall for that twice. This was depressing enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2024
If you want Sapphic don't read this. Main spends more time obsessed and being with men and by the time anything happens with her friend it feels very vague in comparison to what had been written about the men. Very forced. I have never skipped sections in books before but the going on and on about this shit ass dudes literally made me so mad.
I am here for a bi awaking, there is nothing wrong with liking both but the whole vibe of this story was forced and I hated every second of it.
I am here for a bi awaking, there is nothing wrong with liking both but the whole vibe of this story was forced and I hated every second of it.
February 24, 2024
5 stars bby
Even tho the cliffhanger 😭😭😭 why!!
But sapphic retelling of great Gatsby geniusly done. Finally justice for daisy. I really love how Gatsbys actions were pointed out as selfish and self centered. Also it really highlighted how women are treated in those times. So good, zelda Fitzgerald would love this
Even tho the cliffhanger 😭😭😭 why!!
But sapphic retelling of great Gatsby geniusly done. Finally justice for daisy. I really love how Gatsbys actions were pointed out as selfish and self centered. Also it really highlighted how women are treated in those times. So good, zelda Fitzgerald would love this
January 20, 2025
I found this book did a good job depicting forbidden love. The book portrayed women as being stronger than the men which was interesting especially for the time period of the book. I also truly felt for Jordan in the book as I have been in that position before and her story really showed the reality of love at times.
April 7, 2025
I wasted enough time reading the book, so I won’t spend much on this review. I’m insulted on behalf of the Fitzgerald estate that this book tries to ride its coattails. I read only about every third sentence. Two thirds could and should be cut. Drinking game challenge: take a shot when you see the word “audacity” or the phrase “her jaw hit the floor.”
October 19, 2025
This book was a quick and easy read. The suspense on what was going to happen between the two main characters kept my attention and had me wanting to read more. I liked that the different chapters were from different character point of views as well.
I really enjoyed the writing style of the author. I am looking forward to reading book 2 in the near future.
I really enjoyed the writing style of the author. I am looking forward to reading book 2 in the near future.
Read
May 8, 2022A sapphic retelling of the GREAT GATSBY that sneaks up on you as you read, enticing you to rush through and see how it all plays out but also wanting to savor every moment. The ending was unexpected, and I cannot wait to see where Zane takes us on the next journey!
July 1, 2022
I loved the idea of a female great gatsby retelling, it worked so well and I really enjoyed going on this journey. The characters were great, and I look forward to more in this world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2023
Feminine version of Great Gatsby? I feel like I was actually back during this time period and seeing these characters real time. I was feeling so many emotions for Jordan and Daisy but especially Daisy realizing that rights for women were slim to none. Just a great read overall!
May 20, 2025
Great perspective!
This is a great perspective of a character who often gets ignored. Centering around the time period that it does, makes you understand why she is ignored, but makes you angry at the same time.
This is a great perspective of a character who often gets ignored. Centering around the time period that it does, makes you understand why she is ignored, but makes you angry at the same time.
May 21, 2022
I don’t write book reviews because I’m bad at finding the words, but this book was so good. The story is lovely and heartbreaking, and I can’t believe that now I have to wait for the next one.
July 14, 2023
10/10 the Sapphic-Version of The Great Gatsby . Can't want for the second book but goddamn the men in this book make my blood boil...
October 29, 2023
Thought that this was a fun spin on one of my favorite books, the great gatsby!
December 16, 2023
I started out a bit skeptical, but I did end up falling in love with this story. A really cool (and sapphic!!) “retelling” of The Great Gatsby!
August 10, 2024
⭐️2.5
Mildly entertaining. Very redundant
Mildly entertaining. Very redundant
April 24, 2025
Ho letto fanfiction scritte meglio.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews