October 1, 2023
DEBUT A modern day Lizzie and Darcy take center stage--literally--in Jones's meta Pride and Prejudice retelling. Actress Eden Blake, previously the star of embarrassing commercials, is excited to be promoted from understudy to the role of Elizabeth Bennett in a touring production of a Pride and Prejudice musical. The problem? She has to star opposite snobby Broadway star Brennon Thorne. The dislike between the pair is palpable at first, but as they spend time together and kiss on stage every night, their chemistry begins to grow. This is a slow-burn story, with Eden fighting hard against her growing attraction, and Brennon screwing things up at every turn. When their smoldering attraction finally ignites, it causes even more drama that the pair have to work through. Friends and castmates of Eden and Brennon cleverly fulfill several of the classic Pride and Prejudice roles, and Jones ensures that their relationships with the main characters shine a spotlight on the satisfying central romance. VERDICT This inspired rom-com take on Jane Austen sparkles, with its unique setting and well-interpreted characters.--Jenny Kobiela-Mondor
Copyright 2023 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
October 30, 2023
Things heat up backstage in Jones’s slow-burning enemies-to-lovers debut. When the lead for the national tour of Liz and Darcy: The Musical gets sick, understudy Eden Blake is thrilled to jump into the spotlight, despite having to play opposite pompous Tony Award winner Brennon Thorne, who drunkenly embarrasses Eden the first night they meet, enhancing her insecurities. Brennon always gets the girl—onstage, that is. His own romantic life is in shambles, as failing to prioritize his relationships over his work has left him lonely. Getting to kiss his beautiful and talented new leading lady eight shows a week revitalizes Brennon, but offstage she makes him so nervous that he routinely sounds like an ass. When they both fall victim to backstage gossip and jealousy, they learn to see the good in each other, sparking a romance that may be doomed to fail if Eden can’t accept that she’s worthy of being a leading lady both on and off the stage. Echoes of Pride and Prejudice add even more fun to the undeniable pull between Eden and Brennon and the juicy sex scenes. This is a treat. Agent: Eva Scalzo, Speilburg Literary.
November 1, 2023
Eden has worked for years as an actress, and she's finally getting a shot at her dream. The lead in the stage musical adaptation of Pride and Prejudice has taken a leave of absence, which means Eden, as her understudy, will be taking her place. The only problem is that the role of Darcy has also just been recast, bringing famous theater star Brennon to the tour. After he pokes fun at Eden's background in commercial work, the two are off to a rocky start, even as they shine together on stage. Tension builds after their first stage kiss, but Eden isn't looking for a ""showmance"" with a star known for only dating leading ladies, and Brennon has been hurt before by women who were dating him only to boost their social standing. Fans of Austen's classic will adore debut romance author Jones' retelling, and theater enthusiasts will love the setting and drama of the Broadway tour.
COPYRIGHT(2023) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.