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What Would Jane Austen Do?
It's a truth often acknowledged that when a Jane Austen fan girl ends up living next door to a cynical but handsome crime writer, romantic sparks will fly!When Maddy Shaw is told her Dear Jane column has been cancelled she has no choice but to look outside of London’s rental market. That is until she’s left an idyllic country home by the black sheep of the family, long-not-so-lost Cousin Nigel.
But of course there’s a stipulation… and not only is Maddy made chair of the committee for the annual village literary festival, she also has to put up with bestselling crime author –and romance sceptic – Cameron Massey as her new neighbour.
When Maddy challenges Cameron to write romantic fiction, which he claims is so easy to do, sparks fly both on and off the page…
‘Sparkling romance, secrets from the past…Witty and romantic, I couldn’t stop myself from turning the pages’ Alison Sherlock, bestselling author of The Village of Lost and Found
‘Witty, sharp and beautifully observed – I feel sure Jane would approve’ Julie Caplin
Readers are LOVING What Would Jane Austen Do?:‘I absolutely demolished this book! … If you love romance you’ll love this (whether you’re an Austen aficionado or not)!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A perfect read for a day you need a pick me up’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Fans of Jane Austen, or of reading in general, will particularly enjoy this book…sure to be a favourite of many readers this year’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Playful, fun, and a love letter to Jane Austen and her wise words. Glorious’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘The antidote to a bad day…If you’re a Jane Austen fan (as I am) then you will really love the well-chosen quotes that start each chapter and spotting the wisdom included within’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A five out of five for me…the witty, observant writing lifts it above the ordinary…There are lots of subtle nods to Jane Austen's writing and if you're a Janeite, this is a lovely ode to her work’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘An uplifting humorous read, reminiscent of a modern day Jane Austen novel’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A delightful escape into the world of love, literature, and unexpected connections’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Reading this book brightened my day and made me smile’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
But of course there’s a stipulation… and not only is Maddy made chair of the committee for the annual village literary festival, she also has to put up with bestselling crime author –and romance sceptic – Cameron Massey as her new neighbour.
When Maddy challenges Cameron to write romantic fiction, which he claims is so easy to do, sparks fly both on and off the page…
‘Sparkling romance, secrets from the past…Witty and romantic, I couldn’t stop myself from turning the pages’ Alison Sherlock, bestselling author of The Village of Lost and Found
‘Witty, sharp and beautifully observed – I feel sure Jane would approve’ Julie Caplin
Readers are LOVING What Would Jane Austen Do?:‘I absolutely demolished this book! … If you love romance you’ll love this (whether you’re an Austen aficionado or not)!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A perfect read for a day you need a pick me up’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Fans of Jane Austen, or of reading in general, will particularly enjoy this book…sure to be a favourite of many readers this year’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Playful, fun, and a love letter to Jane Austen and her wise words. Glorious’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘The antidote to a bad day…If you’re a Jane Austen fan (as I am) then you will really love the well-chosen quotes that start each chapter and spotting the wisdom included within’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A five out of five for me…the witty, observant writing lifts it above the ordinary…There are lots of subtle nods to Jane Austen's writing and if you're a Janeite, this is a lovely ode to her work’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘An uplifting humorous read, reminiscent of a modern day Jane Austen novel’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A delightful escape into the world of love, literature, and unexpected connections’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Reading this book brightened my day and made me smile’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 331 reviews
June 16, 2023
Thank you to the author Linda Corbett, publishers Harper Collins UK, and as always NetGalley, for an advance digital copy of WHAT WOULD JANE AUSTEN DO?
This book is your Classic case of enemies to lovers via forced proximity. The characters in this one were about what I expected to find in a standard fare romance. I didn't quite connect. 😕 But I loved the dog!💜
This lack of chemistry is my fault, as I came expecting something, but didn't find it. (This is why I don't often read blurbs or go in with expectations!) I came expecting a story that reminds me of a Jane Austen book in style or form or content or character, but instead I find a romance ripe with references to Jane Austen and her work and life. Even though I love Austen, I didn't feel a strong connection to references of her dishes or clothing or even that many of her characters. I needed this book to smack of PRIDE & PREJUDICE. Or EMMA. Or whatever. So for me this element was pleasing enough, but also a bit disappointing.
Rating: 🫖🫖🫖.5 / 5 teapots
Recommend? Yes, for Austen fans
Finished: June 12 2023
Format: Advance Digital, NetGalley
Read this if you like:
🇬🇧 Jolly Ol' England
🏘 Small country villages
👥️ Forced proximity
🤸♀️ Enemies to lovers
🐶 Cute puppers
This book is your Classic case of enemies to lovers via forced proximity. The characters in this one were about what I expected to find in a standard fare romance. I didn't quite connect. 😕 But I loved the dog!💜
This lack of chemistry is my fault, as I came expecting something, but didn't find it. (This is why I don't often read blurbs or go in with expectations!) I came expecting a story that reminds me of a Jane Austen book in style or form or content or character, but instead I find a romance ripe with references to Jane Austen and her work and life. Even though I love Austen, I didn't feel a strong connection to references of her dishes or clothing or even that many of her characters. I needed this book to smack of PRIDE & PREJUDICE. Or EMMA. Or whatever. So for me this element was pleasing enough, but also a bit disappointing.
Rating: 🫖🫖🫖.5 / 5 teapots
Recommend? Yes, for Austen fans
Finished: June 12 2023
Format: Advance Digital, NetGalley
Read this if you like:
🇬🇧 Jolly Ol' England
🏘 Small country villages
👥️ Forced proximity
🤸♀️ Enemies to lovers
🐶 Cute puppers
July 31, 2023
I really enjoyed this rom com that is a sweet exploration. Mandy Shaw adores Jane Austen but her neighbor has no use for romance or Austen. She’s lost her job and inherited a home from an uncle she never met. Then a bestselling crime writer has to move in for a few months while his home is renovated. They can’t stand each other… or can they?
I loved the banter, the supporting characters, and the sweet unspooling tension. It was a trip to Britain in a book. It wasn't a complex plot or anything twisty. Instead, it was a sweet read at a time that was exactly what I was looking for. I'll definitely try other books by this author.
I was offered this book for review purposes, but the opinion is mine alone.
I loved the banter, the supporting characters, and the sweet unspooling tension. It was a trip to Britain in a book. It wasn't a complex plot or anything twisty. Instead, it was a sweet read at a time that was exactly what I was looking for. I'll definitely try other books by this author.
I was offered this book for review purposes, but the opinion is mine alone.
June 15, 2023
A lovely contemporary romance that will thrill all Janeites! Start with an English country home, add in a village literary festival, charming characters, one curmudgeonly neighbor with a darling dog, and heat that slowly builds between MCs Maddy, who adores romance novels, and Cameron (a crime writer, aka Luke), who hates them. A warm witty hug of a book that gave me respite during a hard time. Highly recommended!
April 3, 2025
Es un libro sencillo, con una historia bonita y contado de forma original. No esperéis grandes giros ni mucho menos, es bastante plano y quitando un misterio que se va desentrañando a lo largo de la lectura lo demás es bastante previsible, pero es un libro amable y que te deja con buen sabor de boca.
Me ha faltado algo más de química entre la pareja protagonista, la parte romántica me flojea. Eso sí, si os animáis os vais a enamorar perdidamente de Buster, el perro de nuestro protagonista y que es un amor con patas, literal.
Llegué a este libro de rebote, no sabía ni de su existencia, y me ha gustado la experiencia. Una historia que te deja el corazón calentito.
Me ha faltado algo más de química entre la pareja protagonista, la parte romántica me flojea. Eso sí, si os animáis os vais a enamorar perdidamente de Buster, el perro de nuestro protagonista y que es un amor con patas, literal.
Llegué a este libro de rebote, no sabía ni de su existencia, y me ha gustado la experiencia. Una historia que te deja el corazón calentito.
August 22, 2024
I am obsessed with Jane Austen and every now again will look up recently published books that feature her or her stories. This came up recently in a search at my local library. It's a cute romance that features her quotes at the beginning of chapters and a whole lot of discourse about her novels and characters sprinkled throughout. I really enjoyed this aspect of the book.
The romance has a delightful backdrop of a quaint rural English village, which I really loved. The side characters and the planning of the village's literary festival added a lot of spark to this novel. While the initial friction between our romantic leads, Maddy and Luke, sets up some tension, the chemistry between them as lovers felt underwhelming, and Luke’s character came off as rather spoilt. The story also dragged a bit in the middle, which made it really hard to stay engaged in their story.
Despite this, it's an easy, sweet read.
The romance has a delightful backdrop of a quaint rural English village, which I really loved. The side characters and the planning of the village's literary festival added a lot of spark to this novel. While the initial friction between our romantic leads, Maddy and Luke, sets up some tension, the chemistry between them as lovers felt underwhelming, and Luke’s character came off as rather spoilt. The story also dragged a bit in the middle, which made it really hard to stay engaged in their story.
Despite this, it's an easy, sweet read.
May 16, 2023
This was a cute contemporary romance. The title leads one to expect that it will be a full-on homage to Jane Austen, but that isn't the case. The link is pretty tenuous, and honestly it's hard to tell why Jane Austen even needed to be referenced, as the main beats of this story stand on their own: the main character researches family secrets, settles in to new surroundings, and falls in love in an opposites-attract kind of way. I enjoyed parts of the story, but most of it didn't fully capture my attention.
Content note: There was a small amount of random bad language and a (closed-door, fade to black) bedroom scene, neither of which I was expecting and which tended to further decrease my interest in the story.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for this digital review copy!
Content note: There was a small amount of random bad language and a (closed-door, fade to black) bedroom scene, neither of which I was expecting and which tended to further decrease my interest in the story.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for this digital review copy!
September 14, 2023
Clashing with a morose mystery writer on a Valentine’s Day podcast and losing her job as the Dear Jane advice columnist at a London publication is the start for Maddy’s life to get turned upside down. A curious requirement in her late Cousin Nigel’s will brings city girl, Maddy, to a darling old house and a personal journey driven by quest to know Nigel’s past and learn even more about herself. If there is a bit of romance sparking along the way, her inner Jane Austen voice is ready with the advice.
How could I pass up a book with a title like that? I enjoyed spotting the apropos Austen quotes at the beginning of each new chapter and I was immediately sympathetic with Maddy when she has her column quashed and puts on a stiff upper lip to carry on with the podcast interview where she first encounters dour Cameron Massey. A bad first impression had me eager for the next encounter between the dashing grumpy crime fiction writer and the die-hard romance lover.
I enjoyed the slow burn romance build as Maddy and Luke, who had a writer name for his mysteries, went from prickly to friends and slowly more as he trusts her with his real self and she shared something of her needs, too. Like with most enemies to lover romances of this softer nature, it was easy to see they started with a good dose of misunderstanding and needed close proximity to get past all that. I love it when authors really make the reader see a relationship build and grow as the characters grow.
Along with the romance, there is Maddy’s determination to learn more about her benefactor. She wasn’t in the village or that house long before she realized that what she’d always heard in the family was not even close to the man that was shown here. Nigel was something of a mystery and she put her journalism skills to work to get at the truth. Meanwhile, Luke is working on a new book and the Literary Festival committee keeps Maddy hopping.
In the end, I was well satisfied with this sweet, heartwarming and sometimes funny read. Booklovers will delight in all the book and author love going on as well as a light, soft English village romcom.
I rec'd an eARC via Austenprose to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy on Sept 6th.
How could I pass up a book with a title like that? I enjoyed spotting the apropos Austen quotes at the beginning of each new chapter and I was immediately sympathetic with Maddy when she has her column quashed and puts on a stiff upper lip to carry on with the podcast interview where she first encounters dour Cameron Massey. A bad first impression had me eager for the next encounter between the dashing grumpy crime fiction writer and the die-hard romance lover.
I enjoyed the slow burn romance build as Maddy and Luke, who had a writer name for his mysteries, went from prickly to friends and slowly more as he trusts her with his real self and she shared something of her needs, too. Like with most enemies to lover romances of this softer nature, it was easy to see they started with a good dose of misunderstanding and needed close proximity to get past all that. I love it when authors really make the reader see a relationship build and grow as the characters grow.
Along with the romance, there is Maddy’s determination to learn more about her benefactor. She wasn’t in the village or that house long before she realized that what she’d always heard in the family was not even close to the man that was shown here. Nigel was something of a mystery and she put her journalism skills to work to get at the truth. Meanwhile, Luke is working on a new book and the Literary Festival committee keeps Maddy hopping.
In the end, I was well satisfied with this sweet, heartwarming and sometimes funny read. Booklovers will delight in all the book and author love going on as well as a light, soft English village romcom.
I rec'd an eARC via Austenprose to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy on Sept 6th.
August 22, 2023
A gentle and heartwarming romance, it to me is the romantic version of a cosy crime story. It is softer and obviously set in the english countryside but it gets its point across and is enjoyable.
I kind of enjoyed the mystery that Maddy worked on to discover more about Nigel and with all the village supporting cast you could almost feel like you were in the middle of a miss marple investigation (just without the murder)!
Luke and Maddy are NOT friends when they first meet and then forced into close proximity and he is certainly the grumpy to her sunshine with even a night of one bed to share (I mean they didn't HAVE to). this romance covers all the classically romantic tropes and sometimes forgets and bring in that cosy crime mystery feel whilst always remaining pleasant.
I received this book as a free ARC in exchange from NetGalley for an honest review
I kind of enjoyed the mystery that Maddy worked on to discover more about Nigel and with all the village supporting cast you could almost feel like you were in the middle of a miss marple investigation (just without the murder)!
Luke and Maddy are NOT friends when they first meet and then forced into close proximity and he is certainly the grumpy to her sunshine with even a night of one bed to share (I mean they didn't HAVE to). this romance covers all the classically romantic tropes and sometimes forgets and bring in that cosy crime mystery feel whilst always remaining pleasant.
I received this book as a free ARC in exchange from NetGalley for an honest review
June 15, 2023
I would have liked the idea behind the plot quite a bit, except that Luke and Maddy had zero chemistry, in my opinion, and their interactions most of the time made no sense. He then is an adult with spoiled child-like behaviors who just needed to start banging his feet on the ground. In short, it's not that I particularly liked it as a book, although all chapters began with a Jane Austen quote and that pulled the level of the novel up quite a bit.
L'idea alla base della trama mi sarebbe anche piaciuta parecchio, se non fosse che Luke e Maddy avevano zero chimica, secondo me, e le loro interazioni la maggior parte delle volte non avevano senso. Lui poi é un adulto con dei comportamenti da bambino viziato a cui mancava soltanto di cominciare a sbattere i piedi per terra. Insomma, non é che mi sia piaciuto particolarmente come libro, anche se tutti capitoli cominciavano con una citazione di Jane Austen e che tirava parecchio su il livello del romanzo.
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
L'idea alla base della trama mi sarebbe anche piaciuta parecchio, se non fosse che Luke e Maddy avevano zero chimica, secondo me, e le loro interazioni la maggior parte delle volte non avevano senso. Lui poi é un adulto con dei comportamenti da bambino viziato a cui mancava soltanto di cominciare a sbattere i piedi per terra. Insomma, non é che mi sia piaciuto particolarmente come libro, anche se tutti capitoli cominciavano con una citazione di Jane Austen e che tirava parecchio su il livello del romanzo.
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
July 1, 2024
What Would Jane Austen Do? gaat over journaliste Maddy Shaw, die van het zwarte schaap van de familie, neef Nigel, een groot landhuis erft.
Ze krijgt het huis alleen in bezit als ze er een jaar blijft wonen. Als ze dan ook nog een heel bijzondere huisgenoot krijgt, is het avontuur compleet.
Dit verhaal is lief en fijn om te lezen. Ik hou van alle literaire referenties, helemaal van die van Jane Austen (favoriete auteur) en dat Maddy een literair festival moet organiseren vond ik ook een bonus.
Het plot hing van iets te veel toevalligheden aan elkaar. Dat Cameron Massey precies in het dorp woont, waar zij neerstrijkt bijvoorbeeld. Dat zowel zij als de huisgenoot “ja” zeggen om bij elkaar te wonen, terwijl ze elkaar niet mogen.
En zo kan ik er nog een paar opnoemen.
Ook weten we een aantal dingen niet. Waarom neef Nigel voor Maddy koos bijvoorbeeld. Daardoor blijft de beoordeling op drie sterren steken.
Ze krijgt het huis alleen in bezit als ze er een jaar blijft wonen. Als ze dan ook nog een heel bijzondere huisgenoot krijgt, is het avontuur compleet.
Dit verhaal is lief en fijn om te lezen. Ik hou van alle literaire referenties, helemaal van die van Jane Austen (favoriete auteur) en dat Maddy een literair festival moet organiseren vond ik ook een bonus.
Het plot hing van iets te veel toevalligheden aan elkaar. Dat Cameron Massey precies in het dorp woont, waar zij neerstrijkt bijvoorbeeld. Dat zowel zij als de huisgenoot “ja” zeggen om bij elkaar te wonen, terwijl ze elkaar niet mogen.
En zo kan ik er nog een paar opnoemen.
Ook weten we een aantal dingen niet. Waarom neef Nigel voor Maddy koos bijvoorbeeld. Daardoor blijft de beoordeling op drie sterren steken.
May 30, 2023
What Would Jane Austen Do is a fairly straightforward and predictable novel about a recently fired Agony Aunt who moves into her dead cousin's sprawling countryside estate and falls for the town & her neighbor, a reclusive author with a pen name.
My main issue here was how everything felt so surface. Maddy loses her job and soon finds out it was for nefarious reasons, but somehow she just never follows up on this? Maddy's uncle was in possession of integral information about a famous rock band, but after the mystery is unveiled it's dropped?? Luke, the erstwhile Cameron Massey, has a very messy broken engagement in his past, but somehow we just accept it as "stuff that happens in England" and move on??? Also - what was with the local funeral goer who literally could not stop herself from attending funerals?? Did we ever close that loop?
All in all, this book uses Jane Austen's name but has none of the Jane Austen charm. It's a cheap ploy that worked on me, but I wish I hadn't fallen for it. Two stars. Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the ARC.
My main issue here was how everything felt so surface. Maddy loses her job and soon finds out it was for nefarious reasons, but somehow she just never follows up on this? Maddy's uncle was in possession of integral information about a famous rock band, but after the mystery is unveiled it's dropped?? Luke, the erstwhile Cameron Massey, has a very messy broken engagement in his past, but somehow we just accept it as "stuff that happens in England" and move on??? Also - what was with the local funeral goer who literally could not stop herself from attending funerals?? Did we ever close that loop?
All in all, this book uses Jane Austen's name but has none of the Jane Austen charm. It's a cheap ploy that worked on me, but I wish I hadn't fallen for it. Two stars. Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the ARC.
May 19, 2023
A fun contemporary romance with enemies to lovers and many nods to the great works of Jane Austin. This was a cute quick read, and there's a loveable dog involved. What's not to love. Not your typical Jane Austin story retelling. Great for romance lovers.
June 4, 2023
Jane Austen herself would absolutely love this book as it is charming and captures all the essence of a good Victorian novel! Maddy is fired from her "Dear Jane" column just as she inherits a huge home from her dad's cousin, Nigel whom she's never met. The only stipulation is she must live there for a year, leaving behind...well, not much! Once in the English countryside, she is astounded at its size as well as the expectation that she will chair the yearly Literary Festival at her new home. To add to the burden, she runs into Cameron, a bestselling author she locked horns with during an on-air broadcast. And we're off! Utterly absorbing and delightful, this novel catapults us into Maddy's world and the action never lets up!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
August 15, 2023
What Would Jane Austen Do? is a cozy, uplit romance with quirky characters and references to classic literature.
Maddy Shaw is a journalist and Jane Austen fan girl living in London. When she loses her job and ponders how she will be able to pay her rent, she is shocked to find out that she has inherited an idyllic country home. Figuring she can sell the home and use the cash to tide her over until she can find new employment, she is shocked to hear that she must live in the home for one year before she can sell it. Although she loves London, she is also practical and decides that one year will go by quickly. Once there, she becomes involved in the community and meets a handsome and mysterious popular crime author.
If you appreciate Jane Austen and her work, you will enjoy all the nods to the author in this contemporary romance! Each chapter begins with a quote from one of her beloved characters.
This was the right cozy read at the right time for me and I enjoyed the enemy to lovers and close proximity tropes, the quaint English village and literary festival, the lovely countryside, the colorful and quirky characters, and the slow-burn (fade-to-black) romance. I can’t forget the adorable dog!
I love a story that references other books and features an author and the writing life. This one also includes a literary festival! Do you love a world that revolves around books and the people who read them?
If you are looking for a cozy, uplit romance with colorful characters and many book references, I can enthusiastically recommend What Would Jane Austen Do? for your tbr. In addition to references to a beloved classic author, it also feels contemporary and relevant. Book clubs looking for lighter reads might enjoy this one.
Thanks #NetGalley @HarperCollinsUK @OneMoreChapter_ @OneMoreChapterHC @AustenProse for a complimentary e ARC of #WhatWouldJaneAustenDo upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
Maddy Shaw is a journalist and Jane Austen fan girl living in London. When she loses her job and ponders how she will be able to pay her rent, she is shocked to find out that she has inherited an idyllic country home. Figuring she can sell the home and use the cash to tide her over until she can find new employment, she is shocked to hear that she must live in the home for one year before she can sell it. Although she loves London, she is also practical and decides that one year will go by quickly. Once there, she becomes involved in the community and meets a handsome and mysterious popular crime author.
If you appreciate Jane Austen and her work, you will enjoy all the nods to the author in this contemporary romance! Each chapter begins with a quote from one of her beloved characters.
This was the right cozy read at the right time for me and I enjoyed the enemy to lovers and close proximity tropes, the quaint English village and literary festival, the lovely countryside, the colorful and quirky characters, and the slow-burn (fade-to-black) romance. I can’t forget the adorable dog!
I love a story that references other books and features an author and the writing life. This one also includes a literary festival! Do you love a world that revolves around books and the people who read them?
If you are looking for a cozy, uplit romance with colorful characters and many book references, I can enthusiastically recommend What Would Jane Austen Do? for your tbr. In addition to references to a beloved classic author, it also feels contemporary and relevant. Book clubs looking for lighter reads might enjoy this one.
Thanks #NetGalley @HarperCollinsUK @OneMoreChapter_ @OneMoreChapterHC @AustenProse for a complimentary e ARC of #WhatWouldJaneAustenDo upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
July 12, 2023
3.5*
‘Her experience of women inhabiting country houses was limited to reading - and watching televised adaptations of - Jane Austen books, along with reruns of Downton Abbey. So what would Jane Austen do with her day?’
With Jane Austen in the book title, how could I resist? What Would Jane Austen Do? is a fun, light romance read with an enemies to lovers trope - just right for that inbetween read.
‘… after all, Elizabeth Bennet didn’t get her first glance of Pemberley and think, ooh, I bet that will involve a lot of dusting.’
Jane Austen fans will appreciate the carefully selected quotes at the start of each chapter that lightly align with the given theme. However, given the book title, I was expecting stronger Jane Austen ties that in reality were only fleetingly mentioned. This book could easily remove that draw card name and present as a standalone.
‘Jane Austen would say that if you like someone, make it clear that you do, but don’t put your feelings on public display unless you’re sure they’re reciprocated. Otherwise you’re heading straight into Marianne Dashwood territory.’
‘Who’s she?’
Maddy inherits an English manor but of course there is a stipulation that she must live for one year in the home. Intrigued with the inheritance, she investigates this distant cousin and the surrounding mystery; she gets involved in the local literary festival and takes on a cranky lodger and this is where the light romance comes into play. All these aspects come together for an easy paced read and when you add in an adorable dog there is enough to engage readers.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘Her experience of women inhabiting country houses was limited to reading - and watching televised adaptations of - Jane Austen books, along with reruns of Downton Abbey. So what would Jane Austen do with her day?’
With Jane Austen in the book title, how could I resist? What Would Jane Austen Do? is a fun, light romance read with an enemies to lovers trope - just right for that inbetween read.
‘… after all, Elizabeth Bennet didn’t get her first glance of Pemberley and think, ooh, I bet that will involve a lot of dusting.’
Jane Austen fans will appreciate the carefully selected quotes at the start of each chapter that lightly align with the given theme. However, given the book title, I was expecting stronger Jane Austen ties that in reality were only fleetingly mentioned. This book could easily remove that draw card name and present as a standalone.
‘Jane Austen would say that if you like someone, make it clear that you do, but don’t put your feelings on public display unless you’re sure they’re reciprocated. Otherwise you’re heading straight into Marianne Dashwood territory.’
‘Who’s she?’
Maddy inherits an English manor but of course there is a stipulation that she must live for one year in the home. Intrigued with the inheritance, she investigates this distant cousin and the surrounding mystery; she gets involved in the local literary festival and takes on a cranky lodger and this is where the light romance comes into play. All these aspects come together for an easy paced read and when you add in an adorable dog there is enough to engage readers.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
August 18, 2023
You can't have your main character reference Jane Austen in every conversation instead of giving her a personality.
+1⭐️ for the dog
+1⭐️ for the dog
August 22, 2023
In her novel What Would Jane Austen Do? author Linda Corbett has written a witty Jane Austen-inspired enemies to lovers romantic comedy that readers will thoroughly enjoy. Although starting out a little slow, readers should stick it out because when Jane Austen fan girl and journalist Maddy Shaw and grumpy next door neighbor crime writer Cameron Massey meet, sparks fly! Readers may expect Jane Austen to have a bit more of a tie in with the story, but it’s more of an inspiration than a story focus. A sparkling enemies to lovers story that readers will find entertaining and humorous.
Genre: contemporary, romance, romcom
Tropes: enemies to lovers; black sheep; small town; forced proximity; family mystery; Jane Austen inspired (Pride & Prejudice)
Publisher: One More Chapter
Publication date: June 16, 2023
Number of pages:385
Content warning: a few random swears; closed-door, fade to black bedroom scene
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: contemporary, romance, romcom
Tropes: enemies to lovers; black sheep; small town; forced proximity; family mystery; Jane Austen inspired (Pride & Prejudice)
Publisher: One More Chapter
Publication date: June 16, 2023
Number of pages:385
Content warning: a few random swears; closed-door, fade to black bedroom scene
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
December 26, 2024
Dostajesz od swojego ekscentrycznego wujka w spadku dom w jakiejś dziurze ( Cotlington gdziekolwiek to jest ) z haczykiem, musisz tam mieszkać rok, gdyby nie fakt że to romans widziałabym w tym niezły scenariusz na horror.
Z jednej strony poznajemy Maddy, zafascynowana w literaturze słodka kobieta, która nie boi się powiedzieć swojego zdania i trzymać się swoich ideałów oraz Camerona, który nie zbyt się z nią zgadza ma pewne tajemnicę i jest w sumie tak szczerze nijaki. Ale wiecie jak to na romans przystało Maddy i Cameron mają takie cute hate to love.
Musimy dodać, że Maddy przeprowadzając się do miasteczka znowu się z nim spotyka i patrzcie okazuje się, że on też tam mieszka w ogóle nie dziwne.
W sumie krótko, cała akcja książki jest bardzo prostolinijna mało kiedy wychodzi po za schemat i niekiedy nawet staje się nudna. Maddy organizuje coroczny festiwal literatury, coś zaczyna się dziać miedzi nią a Cameronem i tak w kółko. Gdzieś tam wyjawiają też pewne tajemice. Jeśli chodzi o końcówkę, była poniekąd przewidywalna i ciężko mi było do niej dotrwać.
Ogólnie nie była zła ale już w połowie wiedziałam że więcej niż 4 nie dam. Ta historia nie zbyt do mnie przemawiała bohaterowie są schematyczni, a cała akcja zamyka się w 100 stronach więc chyba jak dla mnie 3⭐
Z jednej strony poznajemy Maddy, zafascynowana w literaturze słodka kobieta, która nie boi się powiedzieć swojego zdania i trzymać się swoich ideałów oraz Camerona, który nie zbyt się z nią zgadza ma pewne tajemnicę i jest w sumie tak szczerze nijaki. Ale wiecie jak to na romans przystało Maddy i Cameron mają takie cute hate to love.
Musimy dodać, że Maddy przeprowadzając się do miasteczka znowu się z nim spotyka i patrzcie okazuje się, że on też tam mieszka w ogóle nie dziwne.
W sumie krótko, cała akcja książki jest bardzo prostolinijna mało kiedy wychodzi po za schemat i niekiedy nawet staje się nudna. Maddy organizuje coroczny festiwal literatury, coś zaczyna się dziać miedzi nią a Cameronem i tak w kółko. Gdzieś tam wyjawiają też pewne tajemice. Jeśli chodzi o końcówkę, była poniekąd przewidywalna i ciężko mi było do niej dotrwać.
Ogólnie nie była zła ale już w połowie wiedziałam że więcej niż 4 nie dam. Ta historia nie zbyt do mnie przemawiała bohaterowie są schematyczni, a cała akcja zamyka się w 100 stronach więc chyba jak dla mnie 3⭐
Read
August 15, 2023As summer draws to a close in my household, I was delighted to have the opportunity for a fun, light read from author Linda Corbett. Her contemporary novel What Would Jane Austen Do? holds a premise that was bursting with potential in my mind. Thankfully, I was not disappointed in this hope, and Corbett’s brisk read was the perfect title to finish out my last days of Summer 2023.
Unlike the majority of the works of historical fiction that I review, What Would Jane Austen Do? is firmly set in the present day, with many references to pop culture, social media, modern communications and the like. However, main character Maddy Shaw has a significant portion of her heart set firmly in the 19th century world of Jane Austen. A Janeite of the first order, Maddy styles herself as a sort of modern “Emma”, providing romantic advice and wisdom as a columnist for an English periodical. She quotes Austen often and mentally considers how Jane would handle various situations. Through circumstances beyond her control, she finds herself sacked from the advice column position, living in a crumbling country estate, and planning a literary festival with no experience to do so. Making things even more complicated, life hands her another task. Maddy is saddled with a tenant– a grumpy, Darcy-esque gentleman who seemingly has no interest in romance.
What Would Jane Austen Do? is written at a lively pace, holding my attention well but allowing for plot and character development. An air of mystery also hung over the narrative, as Maddy’s deceased relation Nigel had significant secrets which came to light over time. Romantic elements were expected, but as is mentioned by Maggie herself, the journey which characters take is what makes a work of romantic fiction interesting. While the tone of the story felt comfortable and familiar, the key elements never felt predictable, and I was often surprised at turns which occurred. This was especially true in the final few chapters, as questions surrounding the pasts of certain individuals were finally answered.
From a content standpoint, Corbett’s writing is thoroughly modern and realistic, but the adult material is not overly graphic. There are a few colorful words on occasion and there is a clear implication of two characters becoming intimate, but the work is decidedly PG-rated in general. Many contemporary romances in the current age are far more colorful and steamy. I applaud Linda Corbett for her ability to write a compelling story in a way that fosters delicious romantic content without being heavy-handed with salacious details. I’m certain our dear Jane Austen would approve.
What Would Jane Austen Do? is a fun summer read for those who enjoy the enemies-to-lovers trope, even if the reader is unacquainted with Austen’s work. The main characters of Maggie and Cameron were compelling, as they go on a journey in which they learn lessons about themselves, their families and their literary culture. Because of author Linda Corbett’s obvious love of literature, English country life, and relationships, she has brought her audience a delightful work of fiction that any romance reader can enjoy.
Unlike the majority of the works of historical fiction that I review, What Would Jane Austen Do? is firmly set in the present day, with many references to pop culture, social media, modern communications and the like. However, main character Maddy Shaw has a significant portion of her heart set firmly in the 19th century world of Jane Austen. A Janeite of the first order, Maddy styles herself as a sort of modern “Emma”, providing romantic advice and wisdom as a columnist for an English periodical. She quotes Austen often and mentally considers how Jane would handle various situations. Through circumstances beyond her control, she finds herself sacked from the advice column position, living in a crumbling country estate, and planning a literary festival with no experience to do so. Making things even more complicated, life hands her another task. Maddy is saddled with a tenant– a grumpy, Darcy-esque gentleman who seemingly has no interest in romance.
What Would Jane Austen Do? is written at a lively pace, holding my attention well but allowing for plot and character development. An air of mystery also hung over the narrative, as Maddy’s deceased relation Nigel had significant secrets which came to light over time. Romantic elements were expected, but as is mentioned by Maggie herself, the journey which characters take is what makes a work of romantic fiction interesting. While the tone of the story felt comfortable and familiar, the key elements never felt predictable, and I was often surprised at turns which occurred. This was especially true in the final few chapters, as questions surrounding the pasts of certain individuals were finally answered.
From a content standpoint, Corbett’s writing is thoroughly modern and realistic, but the adult material is not overly graphic. There are a few colorful words on occasion and there is a clear implication of two characters becoming intimate, but the work is decidedly PG-rated in general. Many contemporary romances in the current age are far more colorful and steamy. I applaud Linda Corbett for her ability to write a compelling story in a way that fosters delicious romantic content without being heavy-handed with salacious details. I’m certain our dear Jane Austen would approve.
What Would Jane Austen Do? is a fun summer read for those who enjoy the enemies-to-lovers trope, even if the reader is unacquainted with Austen’s work. The main characters of Maggie and Cameron were compelling, as they go on a journey in which they learn lessons about themselves, their families and their literary culture. Because of author Linda Corbett’s obvious love of literature, English country life, and relationships, she has brought her audience a delightful work of fiction that any romance reader can enjoy.
June 14, 2023
It's a truth often acknowledged that when a journalist and Jane Austen fan girl ends up living next door to a cynical but handsome crime writer, romantic sparks will fly!
This is a Jane Austen inspired contemporary romance that will put you in the mood to watch Downton Abbey again. It is has a Victorian slant that makes it seem cozy, but enough drama that it is very relevant to today's world. I would definitely say this is a settle in and get cozy with this book and not a fast paced type of book. But this has a setting that makes you want to run off to live in idyllic country home.
This one starts with Maddy who is a writer for a "Dear Jane" column, but her column is cancelled and she looses her job the same day she meets crime writer Cameron Massey. They do an interview together for Valentine's Day and instantly dislike each other.
Then her family informs her that the black sheep of the family, cousin Nigel, has passed away and she has inherited his large house in a remote village. The only stipulation is that she has to live there for a year. She is a bit upset because she has to leave behind London and....not much else it turns out.
Once settled in her country home of Meadowside, she gets a roommate with a dog that she wasn't expecting. And you will never guess who he is. Also, she inherits the job her cousin Nigel had as the chair of the committee for the annual village literary festival. Can she make a success of this festival? Will she learn the truth about her cousin, Nigel? He wasn't what everyone in her family thought he was. And her experience living under the same roof with crime writer Cameron Massey aka Luke might be more than she bargained for.
This was a cute romantic story. It was an enemies to lovers trope. It's a nod to Jane Austen. It covers a quaint village literary festival. There is a cute dog! What's not to like in this one?!? This was a quick read with a great setting and the characters were so cute. The secondary characters were also very interesting. It was fun to get to know them and I think the story ended too quickly. I hope we will get to come back to this town again soon. Thank you to NetGalley and Linda Corbett for the ARC and opportunity to read this book.
This is a Jane Austen inspired contemporary romance that will put you in the mood to watch Downton Abbey again. It is has a Victorian slant that makes it seem cozy, but enough drama that it is very relevant to today's world. I would definitely say this is a settle in and get cozy with this book and not a fast paced type of book. But this has a setting that makes you want to run off to live in idyllic country home.
This one starts with Maddy who is a writer for a "Dear Jane" column, but her column is cancelled and she looses her job the same day she meets crime writer Cameron Massey. They do an interview together for Valentine's Day and instantly dislike each other.
Then her family informs her that the black sheep of the family, cousin Nigel, has passed away and she has inherited his large house in a remote village. The only stipulation is that she has to live there for a year. She is a bit upset because she has to leave behind London and....not much else it turns out.
Once settled in her country home of Meadowside, she gets a roommate with a dog that she wasn't expecting. And you will never guess who he is. Also, she inherits the job her cousin Nigel had as the chair of the committee for the annual village literary festival. Can she make a success of this festival? Will she learn the truth about her cousin, Nigel? He wasn't what everyone in her family thought he was. And her experience living under the same roof with crime writer Cameron Massey aka Luke might be more than she bargained for.
This was a cute romantic story. It was an enemies to lovers trope. It's a nod to Jane Austen. It covers a quaint village literary festival. There is a cute dog! What's not to like in this one?!? This was a quick read with a great setting and the characters were so cute. The secondary characters were also very interesting. It was fun to get to know them and I think the story ended too quickly. I hope we will get to come back to this town again soon. Thank you to NetGalley and Linda Corbett for the ARC and opportunity to read this book.
May 29, 2023
Many thanks to Netgalley, One More Chapter and the author for providing me with a free copy in return for an honest review.
Rating: 3.75/5
Spice: 0 (one make-out scene and a fade-to-black)
Publishing date: 16 June, 2023
This was absolutely adorable, yet for some reason it kind of feels as though I wanted more...? I don't even know if I can properly explain it.
The story follows Maddy, a Jane-Austen lover, who has inherited an estate in the English countryside from a family member she doesn't even know. She travels out from her home in London to live at the estate for the stipulated year before she wants to up and sell the property. Can the town and it's inhabitants win her over? If she's judging by the surly author who she's had a falling out with, surely not?
I loved reading about Maddy finding her feet in this absolutely gorgeous-sounding estate in the English countryside (can I please move there?). She doesn't have the money to keep the place running and since she doesn't even know anyone there, she's almost at a loss and ready to give up.
But then Myra, one of the village elderly ladies and runner of the local Literary Festival, gives Maddy the idea and the right person to take as a lodger. If only she'd known it was the author she had a falling out with.
Soon they start growing towards each other and the atmosphere turns pleasant between the two. During the story we're getting plenty of opportunities for belly-laughs at the rest of the friends Maddy makes, adorable moments with the lodger's dog, and the growing romance between Maddy and the Author.
The writing is wildly comfortable and it's so easy to sink into the story. I actually had to pace myself while I was reading. Linda has founds a wonderful way to incorporate the wisdoms of Jane Austen into a modern day novel that is great for a sunny day spent reading in the garden.
After all this, can I explain what it is that had me wanting more? No, I can't even put my finger on why I'm left feeling a little unsatisfied with the ending (even though the third-act breakup was resolved). I guess we'll never know!
Rating: 3.75/5
Spice: 0 (one make-out scene and a fade-to-black)
Publishing date: 16 June, 2023
This was absolutely adorable, yet for some reason it kind of feels as though I wanted more...? I don't even know if I can properly explain it.
The story follows Maddy, a Jane-Austen lover, who has inherited an estate in the English countryside from a family member she doesn't even know. She travels out from her home in London to live at the estate for the stipulated year before she wants to up and sell the property. Can the town and it's inhabitants win her over? If she's judging by the surly author who she's had a falling out with, surely not?
I loved reading about Maddy finding her feet in this absolutely gorgeous-sounding estate in the English countryside (can I please move there?). She doesn't have the money to keep the place running and since she doesn't even know anyone there, she's almost at a loss and ready to give up.
But then Myra, one of the village elderly ladies and runner of the local Literary Festival, gives Maddy the idea and the right person to take as a lodger. If only she'd known it was the author she had a falling out with.
Soon they start growing towards each other and the atmosphere turns pleasant between the two. During the story we're getting plenty of opportunities for belly-laughs at the rest of the friends Maddy makes, adorable moments with the lodger's dog, and the growing romance between Maddy and the Author.
The writing is wildly comfortable and it's so easy to sink into the story. I actually had to pace myself while I was reading. Linda has founds a wonderful way to incorporate the wisdoms of Jane Austen into a modern day novel that is great for a sunny day spent reading in the garden.
After all this, can I explain what it is that had me wanting more? No, I can't even put my finger on why I'm left feeling a little unsatisfied with the ending (even though the third-act breakup was resolved). I guess we'll never know!
October 23, 2023
“What would Jane Austen do?” Was a pleasant but unfortunately boring read for me. The title and description pulled me in however the execution fell flat.
The chemistry between the love interests was really lacking. Hardly any tension or build up that it felt mostly platonic until 2/3 of the way in. I just didn’t believe it. Also there was supposed to be a challenge of the crime author writing a romance that felt completely pointless.
The mystery of Cousin Nigel was a bit anti-climactic and was left with quite a few unanswered questions and no explanations. I wish this storyline had some more substance to it and that there was more of a connection between the main character and her long forgotten cousin.
The pace of the book and the placement of certain circumstances was poorly written in my opinion. For a book with “Jane Austen” in the title, I didn’t feel she had much to do with it. Besides the quotes at the beginning of each chapter (which was a nice, although necessary, touch to keep the reference alive) and a sprinkle of mentions from the main character, I didn’t feel much of a connection to the literary legend.
I will say that I enjoyed the charming group of committee members (even if their stories felt left hanging too). There were moments where I did enjoy the witty, rom com feel and it was an easy light read.
For these reasons it’s 2 stars for me.
The chemistry between the love interests was really lacking. Hardly any tension or build up that it felt mostly platonic until 2/3 of the way in. I just didn’t believe it. Also there was supposed to be a challenge of the crime author writing a romance that felt completely pointless.
The mystery of Cousin Nigel was a bit anti-climactic and was left with quite a few unanswered questions and no explanations. I wish this storyline had some more substance to it and that there was more of a connection between the main character and her long forgotten cousin.
The pace of the book and the placement of certain circumstances was poorly written in my opinion. For a book with “Jane Austen” in the title, I didn’t feel she had much to do with it. Besides the quotes at the beginning of each chapter (which was a nice, although necessary, touch to keep the reference alive) and a sprinkle of mentions from the main character, I didn’t feel much of a connection to the literary legend.
I will say that I enjoyed the charming group of committee members (even if their stories felt left hanging too). There were moments where I did enjoy the witty, rom com feel and it was an easy light read.
For these reasons it’s 2 stars for me.
August 18, 2023
I'm picky with my romance books and this is one of the examples why. I admit I only picked this up because I too love Jane Austen. But not only was this story very long winded and slow the characters were a bit dull and they had no chemistry whatsoever. At some point even the Austen references seemed lazy and annoying. So I'm sorry, but this book is not for me.
November 18, 2023
This was very badly written and incredibly boring. Very little romance in this romance book, the main characters had no chemistry, there was very little build up and suddenly poof the main character is "in love" with the toxic man child that needs to grow up and get therapy? There was little to no plot in this book that made it a struggle to continue reading.
August 18, 2023
What authors do you look to for inspiration? Like Maddy, the main character of What Would Jane Austen Do?, Austen is an author I look to for inspiration.
Maddy Shaw has just found out two life changing items. The first is that her “Dear Jane” advice column has been cancelled and she is now out of a job. The second is that her long lost cousin Nigel has left her an estate. Before she can make plans to sell it, she finds out that the will stipulates that she live there for a year and it also provides her a small housekeeping allowance. She is also now the chair of the local literary festival. After discovering that a famous author, Cameron Massey (aka real name Luke), that she had an awkward interview with previously lives in this village, will she be able to get over her past prejudice to get to know him? Why did Cousin Nigel move to America and then back to the UK without telling his family? Where did he get all of his money? Why does Cameron’s first best seller match the plot of a news article that Maddy has found amongst Cousin Nigel’s things?
What Would Jane Austen Do? is a lovely romantic comedy novel that kept me entertained. I loved Maddy’s fish out of water story as she settles into the village and gets to know her new house and all of the people in the village. I also loved the little mysteries that she needed to figure out and I wanted to know the answers too! I loved the chemistry between Maddy and Cameron (Luke) with its enemies to lovers vibe. This was a closed-door romance, which I appreciated.
It's no secret that I love Jane Austen. I greatly enjoyed how each chapter of this book started with a wonderful (and related to the story) Jane Austen quote. I also loved how Maddy would often think about her literary heroine, Jane Austen, as she made decisions about her life.
Overall, this is a delightful cozy novel that is a perfect summer (or any time of year) read.
Book Source: Review Copy from author Linda Corbett, HarperCollinsUK, and NetGalley. Thank-you! I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of the Austenprose PR Book Tour. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2023...
Maddy Shaw has just found out two life changing items. The first is that her “Dear Jane” advice column has been cancelled and she is now out of a job. The second is that her long lost cousin Nigel has left her an estate. Before she can make plans to sell it, she finds out that the will stipulates that she live there for a year and it also provides her a small housekeeping allowance. She is also now the chair of the local literary festival. After discovering that a famous author, Cameron Massey (aka real name Luke), that she had an awkward interview with previously lives in this village, will she be able to get over her past prejudice to get to know him? Why did Cousin Nigel move to America and then back to the UK without telling his family? Where did he get all of his money? Why does Cameron’s first best seller match the plot of a news article that Maddy has found amongst Cousin Nigel’s things?
What Would Jane Austen Do? is a lovely romantic comedy novel that kept me entertained. I loved Maddy’s fish out of water story as she settles into the village and gets to know her new house and all of the people in the village. I also loved the little mysteries that she needed to figure out and I wanted to know the answers too! I loved the chemistry between Maddy and Cameron (Luke) with its enemies to lovers vibe. This was a closed-door romance, which I appreciated.
It's no secret that I love Jane Austen. I greatly enjoyed how each chapter of this book started with a wonderful (and related to the story) Jane Austen quote. I also loved how Maddy would often think about her literary heroine, Jane Austen, as she made decisions about her life.
Overall, this is a delightful cozy novel that is a perfect summer (or any time of year) read.
Book Source: Review Copy from author Linda Corbett, HarperCollinsUK, and NetGalley. Thank-you! I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of the Austenprose PR Book Tour. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2023...
July 27, 2025
PFFFFFFF. Esta lectura me ha dejado bastante indiferente. Y eso que el comienzo me llamó la atención y me pareció muy curioso el debate radiofónico que abre el libro.
Para colmo, tengo bastantes dudas de que esto lo haya traducido una persona. Aquí en goodreads aparece la propia editorial en lugar del traductor, por lo que investigué y, según la editorial, el libro fue traducido por una traductora. En caso de ser verdad, está fatalmente traducido: expresiones sin ningún sentido en castellano, traducciones absurdamente literales... Un ejemplo: "Desear era esperar y esperar era esperar". Fantástica traducción.
La trama del libro me ha parecido divertida a ratos y no es un libro tedioso o cursi, de ahí que le dé un 6 a pesar de la traducción y del peor conflicto entre personajes jamás escrito. Desarrolla tan mal la pelea entre los protagonistas que no me lo podía ni creer.
No están mal los personajes: no son insoportables pero tienen muy poca profundidad y apenas desarrollo. Normal en una novela tan corta.
Las referencias a Jane Austen me han gustado mucho, pese a estar fatalmente traducidas en su mayor parte.
El final es un poco naif, pero tampoco me ha dado ganas de pegarme un tiro.
Me parece un libro olvidable, sin más.
Para colmo, tengo bastantes dudas de que esto lo haya traducido una persona. Aquí en goodreads aparece la propia editorial en lugar del traductor, por lo que investigué y, según la editorial, el libro fue traducido por una traductora. En caso de ser verdad, está fatalmente traducido: expresiones sin ningún sentido en castellano, traducciones absurdamente literales... Un ejemplo: "Desear era esperar y esperar era esperar". Fantástica traducción.
La trama del libro me ha parecido divertida a ratos y no es un libro tedioso o cursi, de ahí que le dé un 6 a pesar de la traducción y del peor conflicto entre personajes jamás escrito. Desarrolla tan mal la pelea entre los protagonistas que no me lo podía ni creer.
No están mal los personajes: no son insoportables pero tienen muy poca profundidad y apenas desarrollo. Normal en una novela tan corta.
Las referencias a Jane Austen me han gustado mucho, pese a estar fatalmente traducidas en su mayor parte.
El final es un poco naif, pero tampoco me ha dado ganas de pegarme un tiro.
Me parece un libro olvidable, sin más.
March 22, 2024
Minor spoilers.
After a slew a romcoms that fell short last year (what happened to cosy fiction?!) this hit the spot! I couldn’t put it down and finished in a day! So lovely, cosy and fun! Predictable in the best way with a few fun twists and turns. My only complaints are some of the side storylines had potential to develop into something more but fell a bit flat… I mean finding bones in your backyard should lead somewhere right?! And the ending was a tad rushed so I feel like not only did the ‘big reveal’ fall a bit short we don’t really find out why poor old Nigel was the black sheep?! But the bookish vibes, the romance and the side characters all sparkled! Right I’m off to re-read all of Jane Austen’s books now!
After a slew a romcoms that fell short last year (what happened to cosy fiction?!) this hit the spot! I couldn’t put it down and finished in a day! So lovely, cosy and fun! Predictable in the best way with a few fun twists and turns. My only complaints are some of the side storylines had potential to develop into something more but fell a bit flat… I mean finding bones in your backyard should lead somewhere right?! And the ending was a tad rushed so I feel like not only did the ‘big reveal’ fall a bit short we don’t really find out why poor old Nigel was the black sheep?! But the bookish vibes, the romance and the side characters all sparkled! Right I’m off to re-read all of Jane Austen’s books now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2024
Oikein kelvollinen ja viihdyttävä hömppäkirja, joka ei sisällä suurta draamaa tai kuumaa romantiikkaa, mutta joka sopi hyvin viihdyttäväksi ja leppoisaksi kuunneltavaksi loppukesän iltoihin.
Vähän pelkäsin aluksi, että tämä olisi jälleen kerran sellainen myötähäpeällinen uusinta Ylpeydestä ja Ennakkoluulosta, mutta mielestäni kirja ei tätä ollut, vaikka sisälsikin paljon viittauksia Austenin kirjoihin. Juoni ei sinänsä ollut kovin kummoinen, mutta lämminhenkisellä maalaisromantiikalla ja jöröillä (oikeesti mikä on grumpy suomeksi??) miespäähenkilöillä on silti aina paikka minun sydämessäni
Vähän pelkäsin aluksi, että tämä olisi jälleen kerran sellainen myötähäpeällinen uusinta Ylpeydestä ja Ennakkoluulosta, mutta mielestäni kirja ei tätä ollut, vaikka sisälsikin paljon viittauksia Austenin kirjoihin. Juoni ei sinänsä ollut kovin kummoinen, mutta lämminhenkisellä maalaisromantiikalla ja jöröillä (oikeesti mikä on grumpy suomeksi??) miespäähenkilöillä on silti aina paikka minun sydämessäni
April 15, 2025
3,5⭐
wat een cosy read hihi. i was very entertained!
wat een cosy read hihi. i was very entertained!
June 6, 2023
This is the most fun, entertaining, upbeat novel of the year! It is so well written and just flows with charm, wit and wisdom from one page to the next. I was barely conscious of time because I was so engrossed in the characters and events. Anyone who loves Jane Austen will adore this novel. Each chapter begins with various Austen lines plus there are many others woven throughout the text that work well with the characters’ thoughts and actions.
The Jane Austen phrases correspond beautifully with the plot and show how relevant her words are today. This timeless quality proves that human nature never changes, no matter what century we are in. What Would Jane Austen Do? is a breath of fresh air in its originality. Even though it draws upon Austen's creative works, it uses her lines in a way that puts a modern spin on them. This novel is just perfect, perfect, perfect!
The novel has a brilliant cast of characters and each one is fully realised. Maddy Shaw has a popular Dear Jane column but out of the blue it is cancelled. Maddy is shocked, of course, and she doesn’t learn until later why this has happened. By then she is in a new life, after inheriting Meadowhall, a grand size house from a relative she never knew. Jobless, she sees this an excellent opportunity for income and plans to sell it and get on with her life. But things are not so simple. There is a stipulation in the will. She has to live in it for a year to keep her inheritance. Otherwise, the house goes to another person. She considers the options and decides to stick it out for the twelve months. But what she does not count on is how she will feel about the place once she has lived in it for a while. And the people she will meet in the community that will get inside her heart, including a certain crime writer she crossed swords with before. In the last interview she hosted for her column, she had a heated debate on the writing of romance novels with this author Cameron Massey. He thinks they are simple to write but she begs to differ. She argues it takes skill to compose a quality romance story. (And yes, I believe this is a direct shot to the naysayers of the world who think it is not a valid form of literature.) When Luke (pen name, Cameron Massey) lands on her doorstep needing a quiet place to rent with a dog who cannot stand the noise of construction work, (his house is undergoing renovation) you know there is going to be lots of heated action between Maddy and Luke!
As mentioned, the characters are well drawn with standout individual personalities. Even Cousin Nigel who has already passed away when the book starts, has a presence as large as his manor. As Maddy learns more about him from the neighbours and from the possessions in his house, she develops a connection and a desire to make his memory and legacy better known to her family. We soon learn his backstory with the rock band: a fascinating mystery twist that adds another layer of depth and intrigue to an already fascinating novel. There are so many wonderful threads to this story that keep you interested. There is never a dull moment with this well-developed cast!
One activity in the centre of this novel is a literary festival that pulls the community together. It was started and led by Cousin Nigel. Maddy inherits this task, too, which is somewhat daunting at first. In many ways it stirs up and exposes the various personalities but also provides healing and restoration where needed. Then there’s a ghost hunter with his own issues. And a canine matchmaker who initially pulls Maddy and Luke together on common ground. They both share a love of this furry roommate.
I adored everything about this novel from start to finish. The cast is unforgettable and delightful. There are some intelligent conversations and playful banter. It’s a comprehensive Jane Austen literary feast, covering topics of community, love, friendship and literature to name a few. What Would Jane Austen Do? is no ordinary novel. It is a priceless gift to Jane Austen lovers. Uplifting fiction, cleverly devised, highly observant and exquisitely delivered. If I could give it more than 5 Stars I would! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I highly recommend it. Cannot wait to read more of Linda Corbett’s works!
Thanks to HarperCollins One More Chapter and Netgalley for my review copy.
The Jane Austen phrases correspond beautifully with the plot and show how relevant her words are today. This timeless quality proves that human nature never changes, no matter what century we are in. What Would Jane Austen Do? is a breath of fresh air in its originality. Even though it draws upon Austen's creative works, it uses her lines in a way that puts a modern spin on them. This novel is just perfect, perfect, perfect!
The novel has a brilliant cast of characters and each one is fully realised. Maddy Shaw has a popular Dear Jane column but out of the blue it is cancelled. Maddy is shocked, of course, and she doesn’t learn until later why this has happened. By then she is in a new life, after inheriting Meadowhall, a grand size house from a relative she never knew. Jobless, she sees this an excellent opportunity for income and plans to sell it and get on with her life. But things are not so simple. There is a stipulation in the will. She has to live in it for a year to keep her inheritance. Otherwise, the house goes to another person. She considers the options and decides to stick it out for the twelve months. But what she does not count on is how she will feel about the place once she has lived in it for a while. And the people she will meet in the community that will get inside her heart, including a certain crime writer she crossed swords with before. In the last interview she hosted for her column, she had a heated debate on the writing of romance novels with this author Cameron Massey. He thinks they are simple to write but she begs to differ. She argues it takes skill to compose a quality romance story. (And yes, I believe this is a direct shot to the naysayers of the world who think it is not a valid form of literature.) When Luke (pen name, Cameron Massey) lands on her doorstep needing a quiet place to rent with a dog who cannot stand the noise of construction work, (his house is undergoing renovation) you know there is going to be lots of heated action between Maddy and Luke!
As mentioned, the characters are well drawn with standout individual personalities. Even Cousin Nigel who has already passed away when the book starts, has a presence as large as his manor. As Maddy learns more about him from the neighbours and from the possessions in his house, she develops a connection and a desire to make his memory and legacy better known to her family. We soon learn his backstory with the rock band: a fascinating mystery twist that adds another layer of depth and intrigue to an already fascinating novel. There are so many wonderful threads to this story that keep you interested. There is never a dull moment with this well-developed cast!
One activity in the centre of this novel is a literary festival that pulls the community together. It was started and led by Cousin Nigel. Maddy inherits this task, too, which is somewhat daunting at first. In many ways it stirs up and exposes the various personalities but also provides healing and restoration where needed. Then there’s a ghost hunter with his own issues. And a canine matchmaker who initially pulls Maddy and Luke together on common ground. They both share a love of this furry roommate.
I adored everything about this novel from start to finish. The cast is unforgettable and delightful. There are some intelligent conversations and playful banter. It’s a comprehensive Jane Austen literary feast, covering topics of community, love, friendship and literature to name a few. What Would Jane Austen Do? is no ordinary novel. It is a priceless gift to Jane Austen lovers. Uplifting fiction, cleverly devised, highly observant and exquisitely delivered. If I could give it more than 5 Stars I would! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I highly recommend it. Cannot wait to read more of Linda Corbett’s works!
Thanks to HarperCollins One More Chapter and Netgalley for my review copy.
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