Jane and Dan at the End of the World
-Colleen Oakley Read 3/12/2025-3/24/2025
This was my first time reading a book by Colleen Oakley. I’ve read raving reviews regarding other books of hers, so when I won Jane and Dan at the End of the World in a GoodReads giveaway, I was eager to dive into it right away. The premise caught my attention immediately; I had high hopes for this story to be a compelling page-turner by that little book blurb alone. Unfortunately, for me, that was not the case.
The story is based on Jane and Dan, a couple married for 19 (or is it 20 – depends on which one you ask) years. They live a modest life with their two teenage kids, but Jane has been growing increasingly dissatisfied, while Dan is blissfully unaware. Tension builds as Jane plans to confront Dan while having dinner about her wishes for a divorce. I had hoped to connect on an emotional level with the couple, but I struggled with a connection at all where Jane was concerned. This was extremely frustrating and detracted from my overall interest in the story.
The second part of the story shifts dramatically during their dinner at the renowned La Fin du Monde restaurant, well known for its extravagant 9-course meals costing upwards of two grand. Chaos erupts when a group of gun-wielding activists stage a takeover at the restaurant spouting off lines almost word for word from none other than Jane’s failed book about a terrorist takeover at a tea emporium! This segment is wild and unpredictable, spiraling into madness. As the chaos ensues, the couple’s emotional journey is completely overshadowed, leaving me feeling completely disconnected from where the story started.
Despite my criticisms, the book has its displays of humor and isn’t a total loss. I would, however, recommend approaching it with an open mind, knowing that some events may seem over-the-top, and that Jane’s character might drive you a little crazy. I believe I may have strained my eyes with all the rolling I did between Jane and the restaurant scenes LOL.
I always say, not every book resonates with every reader and that is ok. Just because it didn’t work for me doesn’t mean it won’t reach an audience. Give it a shot—you might love it! Oakley is a talented writer with many other works that I plan to give a go!! You can pick up Jane and Dan at the End of the World at your favorite book retailer!
As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation by the author, present or future, for my review.
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