Book Summary and Reviews of Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley

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Gwen C. (Clearfield, PA)

Quite the Caper
The title was a little off putting but the book -fantastic! Even the chapters grouped under specific headings and the bomb pictures added to the suspense and delight. Jane, long married, tired of influencers' dictates, could have been me speaking. Husband Dan's unimaginative plodding along irritates her -especially when she discovers an affair. Why not ask for a divorce while out for dinner celebrating your anniversary? Her 6 year old, not well received novel added to the hilarity as the story unfolded. The serious. climate concerns were handed deftly, and did make one think. This book is a page turner with characters you won't soon forget. Who knew Elon Musk was the second richest man in the world?

Mary L. (Greeley, CO)

Hilarity, Heart, and Twists
This novel tempts a reader to cancel every other life obligation to keep reading. As the mid-life Dan and Jane celebrate their 19th anniversary, more than a little bored and unsure of their love and how well they have parented their two children, life throws them a curve ball--a terrorist group hostage crisis. In one moment a reader shares their terror and in the next laughs at their conversations and at another unexpected twist. Brilliantly covering both the domestic ennui of midlife as well as global climate and political issues a reader comes to the heart of what truly matters--liking who you love.

Barbara B. (Harlingen, TX)

Jane and Dan At the End of the World
In my 86 years I have read thousands of mystery/thriller books. This plot is so original and clever I read it start to finish in one day. Jan and Dan go to an exclusive posh restaurant to celebrate their anniversary.. Before they can order a group of young thugs enter and take all of the diners hostage. Who are they and why? Even the ending is unexpected. To tell more would ruin the experience for all readers.

It was so much joy to read Jane and Dan I plan to read more by its author, Colleen Oakely.

Janine S

Fun, fast read
I received this book for a free and fair review. I enjoyed Oakley's previous book, The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise, this, her most recent book, and was excited to be able to review this one. And this one did not fail to deliver either, being a fun-filled romp of misadventure, miscommunication and missed steps that lead to a denouement that's unique and satisfying.

Jane and Dan are going to La Fin de Munde, an expensive and exclusive restaurant, precariously located over a cliff, to celebrate their 19th wedding anniversary (though Dan keeps thinking it's their 20th). Jane's in a funk; she's ready to leave Dan, feeling in a rut as her writing career hasn't taken off and she believes something's going on with Dan. The restaurant only seats five tables and is known as the restaurant that serves the most expensive dessert! Just a Jane announces to Dan that she wants a divorce a group takes over the restaurant and from there the adventure begins. As things unfold, Jane comes to realize that what is happening is based on the book she wrote, things get more curious as Dan begins to realize he might know someone in the group. No spoilers here. You have to read the book - and you won't be disappointed if you - to find out what the group wants, how the takeover ends and if Jane and Dan come to the "end of their world."

Overall, I enjoyed the read and believe others will as well.

Suzi S

A quick, fun read
The title made me think this was going to be some kind of apocalyptic story, and in a sense it is. But it's not the end of THE world, just possibly the end of Jane's world. The author definitely created a character in Jane that I immediately knew and understood. It made sense to me that she'd decide to ask for a divorce during her anniversary dinner at a fancy restaurant. The ensuing drama was a little over the top at times, and I never for a moment doubted how the story would wrap up. Still the story was unusual and amusing, making for a fun read.

Jane B

I didn’t get it
This is a carpool novel. Interruptions won’t be a bother as there are no exacting plot points or complicated storylines to follow. In fact, you can skip ahead and still keep up with the story. Jane and Dan have been married 19 years. Jane is a failed author and Dan is a good guy podiatrist. They are at a world famous restaurant when it’s hijacked. In the beginning, the hijackers coincidentally follow the plot of Jane’s book.
It reminded me of stories in women’s magazines before Helen G. Brown got to Cosmo. Light chatter and so as not to offend the ladies sensibilities-Crime pays but only to selective charities.

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