The Start of Us: A Contemporary Christian Romance Novella
Janie Reardon is determined to get over her old high school crush Jack Smith. So when he asks her to help him find out if another woman is interested in him, she agrees, deciding it’s the best and fastest way to permanently remove him from her heart. But the more time they spend together, the more her crush grows. Can she really let Jack go once and for all?
Author Profile
Jill Lynn is a Carol Award & FHL Reader’s Choice Award winning author. She spends her days tapping out small-town stories filled with humor and her evenings hoping someone else will cook dinner. Jill lives in Colorado with her husband and two teenage children. She loves connecting with readers online at Facebook.com/JillLynnAuthor & Instagram.com/JillLynnAuthor.
The Girl He Needs: A No Romance-No Comedy Rom-Com
Non-review Rant
Book #3 October 2023. I promise myself to post the reviews more frequently but then…
Recap
Jeanie helps Jake find if the girl he likes, likes him back.
Review
They say good things come in small packages, and “The Start of Us” by Jill Lynn is a delightful testament to that. This novella packs a wicked sense of humor and a heartwarming romance into its concise pages, making it a perfect one-sitting read.
Jeanie and Her Hilarious Crush
The story revolves around Jeanie, who finds herself harboring a not-so-secret crush. What’s truly entertaining is her attempts to conceal her feelings while secretly hoping that Jake, the object of her affections, will finally notice her as more than just a friend. The humorous undertone of her efforts adds a layer of charm to the story. You can’t help but chuckle at her antics as she navigates the labyrinth of her emotions. It had such wicked sense of humour that I finished the book in one sitting.
A Fully-Packaged Romance
Short romance are always a treat to read, unless things are left for the readers to understand. This one was complete, a fully-packaged romance story with all the beats and it was short without compromising on comedy, romance or storytelling.
When done right, short romances are like a delightful snack you can’t get enough of. “The Start of Us” falls into this category, providing a complete and fully-packaged romantic experience. It’s a quick read that doesn’t skimp on the essential elements of comedy, romance, or storytelling.
What makes it stand out is its ability to deliver a wholesome romance within the constraints of brevity. The narrative doesn’t leave you hanging, wondering what happens next. Instead, it takes you on a journey that’s rich in humor, genuine emotions, and a sweet, budding romance. The pacing is spot-on, ensuring that you stay engaged from start to finish.
In a world where many short stories or novellas often leave too much to the reader’s imagination, “The Start of Us” is a refreshing exception. It’s a compact but complete romantic tale that leaves you with a satisfied smile.
Jill Lynn’s “The Start of Us” is a short but sweet romance that manages to capture the essence of a budding relationship, sprinkled with humor and heart. If you’re in the mood for a quick, entertaining read that delivers on all fronts, this novella is a perfect choice.
Some Lines I Liked
Chapter One – Page 3
perfecting a look that’s somewhere— I hope— between nonchalant and not too prissy. –
Chapter One – Page 4
so we’re a good match in the height department. Just not in the him noticing I’m a girl department.
Chapter One – Page 5
His smile reminds me of a cat who just discovered half and half in his dish instead of skim.
Chapter One – Page 7
When he cocks an eyebrow in answer to my sass, coupling it with a crooked grin, I almost melt into a puddle of desire— the making out kind, not the other stuff— right then and there.
Chapter Three – Page 15
The house is silent. And strangely lonely.
Chapter Three – Page 17
I’m about to start doodling Mrs. Janie… Freight? in my notebook.
Chapter Four – Page 23
“I remember seeing you that fall. You were talking to Mari Zadar, standing next to your lockers, and there was something different about you. At the time, I didn’t give it a second thought.”
Note: Woah! That is quite a memory he has for a girl he semed to ignore. Love it.
Chapter Five – Page 33
The beat in my chest slows to a depressing thud.
Stay tuned for more book reviews in my “one book review per month” series. This month, I have published two. Isn’t that nice?
Until next time, happy reading!
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Shabana Mukhtar