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There are currently 22 member reviews
for Jane and Dan at the End of the World
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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.
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Ticey G. (Andover, KS)
Not the book for me
This started out promising but quickly became outlandish and I found myself skimming a lot of the book. This was a miss for me.
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Lauren C. (Los Angeles, CA)
Ho hum hostage situation
While this was billed as a hilariously bad dinner date in which the entire restaurant ends up being taken hostage, I never found it particularly hilarious or engaging. I did not find the main characters to be original or interesting and the twists were too coincidental to be "wow, I didn't see that coming" moments.
The book is light reading so if you're looking for something not very deep that has a few chuckles you might enjoy it.
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Lauri Z. (Washington, DC)
An easy and fast read, and pretty predictable
This book is about a struggling writer who rather unsuccessfully published a book long before this story takes place. That book, much to her surprise, is the footprint for the caper that occurs and in which she becomes a victim. The primary underlying theme of the author's story (the one I am reviewing- not the fictional book) is the characters' failing marriage. Almost a reflection of "be careful what you wish for". I actually think this book could be the book the fictional author wrote. I don't think I would recommend this for a bookclub that enjoys a book that allows for meaningful questions and deep interpretation. But if you are looking for a light read that doesn't require your undivided attention this is for you.
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Jennie R. (Plymouth, MN)
Fun to read
While I thought this book had many cheesy/corny moments, I did enjoy the fast paced storyline. It was a quick and easy read with some life advice thrown in (i.e. be careful what you wish for, etc.).
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Carmel B
Guerilla Marketing
Even though something kept me reading, I found Oakley’s fantasy to be implausible. Jane, the main character, is intelligent, likeable and funny. She seems to have good reasons for her fading love for her husband, Dan. Then, a band of ridiculous teenagers with an equally ridiculous leader has Jane slowly and inexplicably fading back to her needy, weak and dependent self. The ending is predictable and unsatisfying, despite a sprinkling of strained surprises. Still, who am I to judge any author who has found her way to being published? Oakley is a good writer, but this story is not for senior citizens, especially if they are not tech-savvy or into kinky sex. A believable story would make her a great writer.
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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.
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