What do readers think of Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley? Write your own review.

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.

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.

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.).

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.

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.

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.