“IS THIS A TRUE STORY?
Beautifully written story of love, betrayal, loss, forgiveness, endings and beginnings. So real all of it. I felt what the characters felt and was totally immersed in the story as it unfolded. I really want to read more from this author.”
“AHHHHHH!
I honestly cannot say anything bad about this book. It made me laugh, cry, want to scream and swoon. Really enjoyed.
”
“AMAZING STORY!
I couldn’t stop reading this incredible love story! Thank you so much Jayne Conway 😘. I will be looking forward to discovering all your books. ”
“WONDERFUL CHARACTERS! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Brava, Ms. Conway, on a superb novel. Tremendous writing! Wonderful characters and story telling. Highly recommend. This is my first experience with Jayne Conway’s work, however, this novel had me emotional —- there was a few times I was so angry at a character that I had to put the book down and walk away until I could come back and read clearly. The story was very relatable not only to myself, but to others in my life. It was like a fly-on-the-wall wrote down all the things that have happened in our lives… but somehow understood our internal thinking as well. Thank you to NetGalley and Plain Jayne Ink for an ARC of As it Seems by Jayne Conway, in exchange for an honest review.””
“AN EMOTIONAL JOURNEY
I loved the fact that this book made me go through multiple emotions throughout it. Especially towards the main character. I loved her, I hated, I wanted to shake her, I wanted to hug her and tell her everything would be alright. Not many authors can successfully evoke that much emotion from the reader, but this author was very successful in doing so. This was a thoroughly good read.”
“COMPELLING STORY
Great read with excellent character development. Engaging main character who grows and changes as she hits her forties. Well written and great pacing. I just want to go have coffee with the main character Libby. Looking forward to reading other books by this author! Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”
“BRUTAL. EMOTIONAL. REAL.
This is the second book Jayne Conway has written, and I’m glad to have read it. It is a book that exposes secrets between two families. Secrets that could potentially destroy the families, destroy any marriage. And we, as readers, are the bystanders. We aren’t fed enough to know exactly what is going on, exactly who is worth trusting, but we have our suspicions. Then again, it is like that for all the characters in the book. No one seems to know the whole story, the whole time. We all know what it’s like to feel distress when we see someone we love enter a relationship that is destined to fail, or make a risky investment, or doom themselves to just settling with whatever seems enough. And at first, with the characters in this book, I had no reason to feel anything for their situation. We all have our own problems, but gradually I became more invested. I wanted things to work out, the lies exposed and for everything to be all right again. We all want that- for everything to be right with the world. This book is brutal, in perhaps the best way. A refuge from the trap of believing in fairy tales, shining a blinding, bright, intrusive light on the lives of two families. *spoilers deleted* They live in the rich suburbs, have a beautiful home and two children. A perfect lifestyle, in photographs that is. What happens inside the walls of their home? Well, we, as readers, get an earful. And a huge peek at the going ons behind the closed doors!
Don’t we all love a good, guilt- ridden, gossip? This book will offer you plenty of material to last you. Plenty of secrets, your head will be spinning and you’d just wish to enter their lives and keep them from making the most disastrous mistakes. Is it the wisest to give a man who betrayed you, a second chance? Is it wise to remain in a boring, loveless, marriage for the sake of keeping your children sane?
I loved the tension and the ‘waiting for glass to shatter’ moment which I have come to associate with books like these. That moment when the pin drops and the truth is finally revealed. As brutal, shocking and twisted, as it is. But it does keep you on edge, impatiently waiting for the next debacle. And the story, in spite of how ‘messed up’, the self doubts, the hesitancy, confusion, disbelief, denial, was very much real. After all, the future is an uncertain place and the world is very much what we make it- or so, they tell me.”
“WELL WRITTEN AND ENJOYABLE READ
As It Seems, written by Jayne Conway, was a well-written and enjoyable read about a marriage devastated by infidelity and the aftershocks it causes. While I was sometimes frustrated with Libby, the lead female character, I also found myself wondering what I would do in her position. The truth is (and as the book states, in so many words) you never know what you would really do, until you are in the actual situation yourself. Divorce is a difficult thing to contemplate and even more so when there are children involved. It is an agonizing choice with no right answer. I felt that pain as I read the novel. I enjoyed reading this book and would read another book by this author.”
“A THOROUGHLY ENJOYABLE NOVEL
This books delves into the relationships of friends and families in their local community and examines how the infidelity of two of them rocks the life of everyone and causes irrevocable changes when they are discovered. Libby is determined to save her marriage for the sake of her children but agonises over her decision when it means shutting out people she loves. Ginger plays a central role in supporting, but not judging her friends. A thoroughly enjoyable novel with excellent, believable characterisation and engaging storyline”
“REALITY WRITTEN IN THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WAY POSSIBLE!
I honestly am quite in love with this book. To me, there are two types: one where I fall in love with the book because of the writing, and the other, where I fall in love with the book because it opens my eyes to more than I ever thought possible. As it Seems easily falls in the second category for me... This was a first Jayne Conway book for me, and reading this- the language, the honesty, and the life she weaves into her words makes me eager to get my hands on more. I loved Libby, and her strength. I might not have always liked her decisions, but the thing is, it wasn’t because the author wanted to create some drama. Nothing in the book felt overtly dramatic. Every single plot point was carefully and thoughtfully placed. Truman’s love and dedication was truly heartbreaking and at the same time, swoon worthy. This book gave me a completely different outlook into the way adults behave, and their reasons. The only description I have for the book is painfully real. It was reality written in the most beautiful way possible. I have to give my hats off for the author for writing something so haunting.”
“BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN
This book caused me physical pain. Beautifully written, we follow the journey of Libby, a suburban housewife whose life is turned upside down. A story about family, love, friendship, and relationships that makes you question your view of everything.”
“FIVE STARS!
Another 5 star book! I am so happy that I stumbled upon this author! The plot was amazing, the characters were awesome! I like how she even incorporated some people from her first book into this one. I read it in one sitting — I had to find out how it would end. I will anxiously be awaiting her 3rd book!”
“AN UP AND COMING WRITER TO WATCH
I read Jayne Conway’s first novel, “What if I Fly?” pretty much on a whim and liked it quite a bit — surprisingly so, in fact, since romances aren’t usually my thing. But she won me over, and so I had no hesitation diving headlong into book two — “As It Seems” — and once again I was rewarded. There is unquestionably a certain tone to both of Ms. Conway’s novels to date: a strong sense of place, the challenges of finding and keeping love, devotion to family and friends, being hurt and searching for solace, redemption and peace. But “As It Seems” takes these themes further. The characters are fuller, the descriptions richer, the ultimate payoff greater. I really enjoyed the first book, but this second one shows a writer growing even more in her craft. I realize this review doesn’t tell you all that much about the plot of “As It Seems” or how it unfolds. But I’ll leave that to other reviewers and the book jacket. Better yet, explore it for yourself.”
“AN UPLIFTING & SATISFYING READ!
Wow. This book was painful and wonderful and true. Without spoiling it for others, Conway’s very real exploration of two marriages in crisis will strike a nerve to anyone who has ever been in an unstable relationship. I couldn’t put it down, wanting to know how Libby resolved her inner conflicts and hoping she’d learn to stand on her own two feet. Ultimately, an uplifting and satisfying read that will leave you with a smile on your face.”
“EERILY REALISTIC
From the very first paragraph to the last word, Jayne easily drew me in to the lives of each character. The story is a realistic view of love, family, sacrifice, and ultimately encourages each of us to consistently honor our authentic selves.”
“I HONESTLY AM QUITE IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK!
To me, there are two types (of books): one where I fall in love with the book because of the writing, and the other, where I fall in love with the book because it opens my eyes to more than I ever thought possible. As it seems easily falls in the second category for me. This was a first Jayne Conway book for me, and reading this- the language, the honesty, and the life she weaves into her words makes me eager to get my hands on more. That aside, let me get started with the review. *spoiler alerts deleted* I loved Libby, and her strength. I might not have always liked her decisions, but the thing is, it wasn’t because the author wanted to create some drama. Nothing in the book felt overtly dramatic. Every single plot point was carefully and thoughtfully placed. Truman’s love and dedication was truly heartbreaking and at the same time, swoon worthy. This book gave me a completely different outlook into the way adults behave, and their reasons. The only description I have gotten for the book is painfully real. It was reality written in the most beautiful way possible. I have to give my hats off for the author for writing something so haunting.”
“LOVE, LOVE, LOVED AS IT SEEMS!
If you’re looking for a new read, I highly recommend this book! Couldn’t put it down and read it in a day and a half.”
“EXCELLENT READ!
Once you pick this book up to read you will not want to put it down. Very enjoyable.”
What if I Fly?
“FIVE STARS!
This was just a beautiful book, and I highly recommend it. It is a long novel with a lot packed in between the pages, however I couldn’t put this down. This book outlines the dichotomy when individuals from different social standing, life, and how two characters who are so different can be so right for each other. This was not a predictable book by any means, and the author has a way with words that really makes the time fly as you read. This book first caught my eye with the title and cover art, and I am happy I was able to read this. There is a wide range of emotion that this book brings out for the reader. The pages are filled with love, laughter, hope, and heartache packed within the words used. The author has a way with words that keeps the reader engaged emotionally and intellectually, and the characters are ones you grown to know and love, despite their flaws. This book is full of realistic situations and characters that really resonate with real life experiences, and I can’t recommend it enough. Reading this book brought out all the feels, and it was sad when the book ended. I was impressed with this new to me author, and I can’t wait to see what other books she has on the horizon.”
“COMPLICATED AND BEAUTIFUL.
I have a tendency to describe books as simple, only when it’s true of course, but I don’t think I’ve ever described a story as ‘complicated’. Needless to say, this book serves as a different kind of story. The story follows Will and Julia, a couple who couldn’t possibly be more in love. But things take a turn for the worst when Will’s ex, Avery, re-enters his life. Will and Avery had a relationship that ended terribly, and Will feels he owes it to her to look after her. But how can he do this, when he’s involved with Julia? Of course, as any woman would, Julia registers that there is something going on: it’s painfully obvious to anyone but poor, oblivious, Will that Avery is trying to sabotage their relationship. Does she succeed? Well actually she does- yep, complicated, and I was blindsided by the occurrence. I welcome unpredictability- it was great....But the story doesn’t end there: neither Julia nor Will can move on, move past their chapter. They’re upset, miserable and more alone than ever. Will they ever find happiness? I personally felt that this book was successful in that it dealt with such heartbreaking issues, and Conway created such intelligent, intuitive, characters. You could really feel the burden and troubles of the situation. It was fascinating. The story absorbs the reader into the character’s lives, we get a real sense of the situation and the misery, the joy and elation. All in all, a complicated story with a beautiful finish.”
“I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!
I won: What if I Fly? through a Goodreads Giveaway and the following is my honest opinion of this book. This is Jayne Conway’s sensational debut novel. WOW! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!! The characters in the story are so well-written that they literally walked right off the page and into my heart. It was difficult to leave them behind when I finished the book. This novel deals with the subject of moving beyond the pain of one’s past. Julia has an issue with trust, especially when it comes to men. *spoilers deleted* She never enters into any relationship where she might become vulnerable to love. Julia tells her best friend Gabby that, “Love makes you weak, and I can’t afford to be weak.” Then Julia meets Will, and even with all her resistance against it, they fall in love, anyway. Will has a past too, that’s filled with guilt over his old girlfriend, Avery. Can Will get past his guilt to fully commit to Julia? How much trouble can Avery cause between them, once she’s decided she wants Will back?
This is such a fantastic book. I’m so glad that I won it! What if I Fly? is one of my favorite reads of this year! If you like a GOOD love story, then you have to read this book. I really can’t wait to read Jayne Conway’s next novel. ”
“I HONESTLY CAN’T BELIEVE THIS IS A DEBUT NOVEL!
I really enjoyed this book, I honestly can’t believe this is a debut novel! I tend to enjoy books that span over time and have a bit of angst in them and this book filled both of those needs. I loved Will & Julia and their love for one another. It was a great story and I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves romance and a well written book.”
“A WONDERFUL STORY!
A wonderful story about love and second chances, the story had a familiar tone that drew you in from the beginning. A bit repetitive at times, but parts of it took place during 9/11, making the story both sad and hopeful. *spoiler deleted* The story was well thought out and nicely executed throughout.”
“IF YOU ENJOY A GOOD ROMANCE...ADD THIS TO YOUR LIST!
One of my favorite aspects of this story is how you get to experience every twist and turn from the day they met in 1992 onward. At times the story could be so frustrating because you want Will and Julia to do one thing and they do the complete opposite! Don’t even get me started on the whole Avery issue. Avery was definitely on my bad side throughout the entire book and I was definitely reacting the same way towards her as Ellie, who was probably my favorite character. Being able to switch between Will and Julia’s points of views really added to the story, but it also made some moments even more frustrating because you see exactly what is getting in the way of their relationship. If you haven’t already read What if I Fly? and you enjoy a good romance novel, you should add this one to your list.”
“ROMEO & JANE EYRE SET IN OUR TOWN
I do not read romance novels, ever. I picked this up largely because of the Rhode Island setting... Too few books are set there, despite all it has to offer. I’m really glad I did. Ms. Conway has crafted a very effective, modern-day spin on “Romeo & Juliet,” tinged with some of the class-consciousness of “Jane Eyre” and insights into small-town America à la “Our Town.” The characters are well-drawn and realistic, as are their struggles — both visible (a wedding reception gone very wrong) and internal (tough decisions and ethical quandaries). I also really enjoyed the fluidity with which the author moved back and forth through time, which can be tough to follow if done badly but here was flawlessly executed. Definitely worth your time. ”
“COULDN’T PUT IT DOWN!
The book was phenomenal. I couldn’t put it down. It stirred so many emotions in me and enjoyed reading about Bristol. So well written! Will recommend to all my friends. Congrats!”
“AWESOME READ!
Couldn’t put it down. Wow. Finished in a day. Awesome read. Took place in my home state so I was familiar with some of the setting but the characters brought the story to life. I am ready for a sequel.”
“TALENTED NEW AUTHOR!
This was an excellent first novel by a very talented new author. While the work is not perfect, it is difficult to believe this is Ms. Conway’s first effort. The characters are well developed, the locations well described and the story held my interest. Highly recommended!!”
“PERFECT SUMMER READ!
Loved, loved, loved ‘What if I Fly?’ It’s the perfect summer read. Laughed and cried all within 24 hours. I could not put it down!”
“PHENOMENAL!
I’m stunned that this is a debut novel. It’s so well written, populated with realistic characters and graced by a well-crafted, believable story arc. The book is achingly plausible, and as such, it’s not fun getting through Will’s weakness or Julia’s stubbornness. Unlike so many in the genre, though, this bleeds realism, not contrivance. Never fear, you don’t have to suffer complete bleakness in the service of a well-written work; this one will not leave you depressed for weeks afterward. I so enjoyed my time with these characters and eagerly await the author’s next book. ”
“A MUST READ!
Im not a romance novel person (being a 67 year old male), but I could NOT stop reading this book. The characters are well developed and believable. I couldn’t wait to turn the page and see what was happening next. By the time I finished the book I was wanting more. I felt like Will and Julia were new found friends and I really cared what was going on with them. By all means get this novel TODAY!”
“TOTALLY ENGROSSING!
This is the first book I’ve read since having my baby last year. I was totally engrossed in the book and struggled with the feeling of not being able to finish it fast enough! I just had to find out as soon as possible how Will and Julia’s story would end...I so desperately wanted them to end up together. I loved how the events unfolded and can’t wait for the author’s next book.”
“I LOVED this book!
It is a romance through-and-through. But, I liked the characters, the plot, and the ending! A must-read if you like love stories.”
“FANTASTIC READ! HATS OFF TO MS. CONWAY!
Loved reading about Will and Julia’s romantic roller coaster ride, and the details of RI were accurate, making the book even more enjoyable. Thanks for writing it, Jayne!”
“FABULOUS!
You know a ‘beach read’ is good when it has greasy spots of sunscreen on it because I didn’t put it down while trying to spray myself and pink drips because I missed my own mouth while drinking because I tried to keep reading as I simultaneously drank my sports drink. It was fabulous! ”
“NICELY WRITTEN STORY
Nicely written story, of boy meets girl in a small New England town with strong characters.. Will hold one’s interest & worth reading. First novel & looking forward to another!”
“ENJOYABLE STORY!
Rarely do I get the time from my busy life to sit, relax and read. Thank you for writing such an enjoyable story!”
“FIVE STARS!
I really enjoyed this book...finished reading it in a day and a half. Couldn’t put it down!”
“COULDN’T PUT IT DOWN!
The storyline of this book was captivating. Being from the Rhode Island area and knowing the various locations described in the book made me feel like I was right there with the characters. I didn’t want to put the book down until I was finished and even then I wanted the story to continue. Looking forward to future publications by this author.”
“VERY ENJOYABLE READ
I originally bought the book due to part of the story being set in Rhode Island. I found that by the time the protagonist entered the story, I was hooked and finished the rest of the book with in a few hours. I was very tired the next day, but intrigued and satisfied with the way the rest of the story unfolded. An interesting and realistic group of people and events. I am looking forward to a next book.”
“GREAT FIRST NOVEL
I really enjoyed this book, Ms. Conway really has a gift, her descriptions of the small towns of RI to the beautiful Verona captured my attention and I could see it all. The development of the characters is amazing, she does a great job of helping you to get to know these two families over the course of the book. I had a lot of trouble putting this down and was reading into the wee hours of the morning because I just had to know what was going to happen next in Will and Julia’s life. I also want to commend Ms. Conway for the way she incorporated 9/11 into the novel, she brought us back to those feelings we had that day, it was very touching. Kudos on a great first novel, can’t wait for the next one!”
“GREAT FIRST NOVEL! CAN’T WAIT FOR SECOND!
Normally I have some difficulty being captured by a book. This book grabbed me from the beginning and held me hostage until I finished. Love that it takes place in Rhode Island. Great character development, felt as if I really knew them and connected with their “Roller Coaster” ride through life. Great read, highly recommended!!! You won’t be disappointed! ”
“OUTSTANDING
I absolutely loved this book. The characters were well developed and I could visualize the people and couldn’t wait to find out what they would do next. I found myself anticipating the next move and quite often was surprised by the turn of events. ”
“What if I Fly? was recommended to me by several local people. So of course having semi-grown up in Bristol, RI, I had to buy it and give it a shot. Sometimes you never know what you are going to get with an indie author, but I was pleasantly surprised. I found myself drawn into Julia and Will’s story and read it in a couple of hours. You all know I am a sucker for second chance love. The story is not all hearts and flowers. It’s raw and gut wrenching at times. But, then, isn’t real romance like that sometimes? I found that this story had an element of reality that some romances don’t have. Some couples are meant to be together, but unfortunately it takes a long time to get to that HEA. Both characters had a lot of baggage that they had to overcome in order to find their way to each to happiness. This is a good book to curl up on a crisp fall day with a cup of tea and just let yourself get lost in. I thought it was a well written debut novel. Ms. Conway is definitely an author to keep an eye on. I look forward to seeing what story she comes up with next!”
“BEAUTIFUL LOVE STORY
I don’t read romances - full of repetition and pathetic whining, if you ask me. So it was actually surprising and exciting to be so drawn in by this beautiful love story. It was easy to root for this smart and confident young woman and her kind and loyal friend Will as they figure out how to be true to themselves and each other. Bring this book to your favorite beach or coffee shop and allow yourself to indulge in a great story.”
“A MUST READ
I do not usually read fiction novels, but I couldn’t resist reading this one since I grew up in one of the various settings. The author accurately depicted the small town in Rhode Island, and created characters that sucked me in. This was a quick, easy read with a few unexpected twists that weren’t unrealistic at all. I can’t say too much more without spoiling it...just read it and you won’t be disappointed. I look forward to the author’s next novel!”
“I FELT LIKE I WAS THERE
Totally enjoyable reading. The story begins in Bristol RI and moves on to New York City, Washington DC and Verona Italy. Each location is described well enough that I could easily visualize them, and the characters defined to the point that the reader can really get to know Will, Jules, Ellie and Avery. The many twists and turns along the way really hooked me and I didn’t want to put the book down and didn’t want it to end. Easily five stars. Can’t wait for the author’s next book.”
“HAD ME HOOKED FROM THE FIRST PAGE
Great book Had me hooked from the first page. I couldn’t put it down and finished it within a day. The characters and the locations were described so vividly, I felt I was there with them. The writer’s description of post 9/11 NYC gave me chills. Highly recommended”
“GREAT SUMMER READ!
I loved this book. It has some good twist and turns and you won’t want to put this book down. I fell in love with the families.”
Say Something
“TRULY LOVELY!
This is a love story that will not go away once you read it. There are so many missed chances and mistakes that will make you hope the next chapter will make them be fixed. I loved the relationship between Della and Jake, flawed that it is by both of their mismatched desires and slap on the forehead revelations. You hope for them to find a way together, never knowing if it will really happen.”— Paula P on Amazon 4/24/17
“I LOVED THIS BOOK!
Did not think I was going to like it as much as I did. I keep stumbling with books set in New England for some reason, which I am loving, especially this one that is set in RI. I loved Della and Jake’s story, I did want to shake Della sometimes, because I felt that she was being selfish, but as the story developed I could see her point. I loved the way that the author presented each point of view. I will definitely read this author again.”
“UNIQUE AND REFRESHING
I really enjoyed this book. Jayne takes the reader on a romance adventure that spans several years with the two main characters. The ending is fairly predictable but the way the book weaves to get there is unique and refreshing. ”
“UNREQUITED LOVE
Ahhhh, the pain of unrequited love, a third chance romance, a hero with his head up his arse, and a case of “be careful what you wish for”. *spoilers removed* Our hero and heroine have been friends since high school, and she has loved him, but was relegated to the friend zone, though was there for him in every aspect of his life for years. He finally gets his head out of his ass, and they start a life together. But, he is a rising music star, and fame comes his way. She doesn’t want to stand in the way of his dreams, he goes down the rabbit hole or stardom, and suddenly she is forced into a life she never wanted for either of them. And they drift apart, headed for disaster. The storyline here was awesome. It had everything I like in my books. Read this great story!!!”
“WOW!
Simply the best book i’ve read in a long while. There’s so much passion, and so much humanity and flaws...I’ve loved it”
“KEEP WRITING!
What a lovely well written novel by Jayne Conway. A sweet retreat into the small town life in Bristol mixed with the excitement of NYC. ”
“LOVED IT!
Was completely enthralled by this book the minute I started it. Loved loved loved it.”
“ENTERTAINING AND REAL
Anyone who has experience unrequited love knows how difficult it is to move on. That’s an underlying premise in this story. Della has been in love with Jake for decades. She has a lifestyle many might envy. And, while she knows she and Jake can only be friends as he’s married, it is a ‘sacrifice’ she’s willing to make so that he can be in her life. Then everything shifts when Jake and his wife split. Suddenly, there is an opportunity and Della decides to take action. Their love is one of sparks and intense need for the other. But, then Jake’s life continues to change and he is catapulted into stardom. What ensues is their journey to see if their relationship can be sustained or if they have made it into a fantasy that is doomed. While this book was entertaining, I also appreciated the deeper level of examining relationships and how choices we make can have devastating effects.”
A Good Wife
“Jayne Conway at her best!
The novel opens with the untimely death of a husband and the reader is drawn into a compelling journey of heart break, grief, changing relationships and redemption. The author’s writing glimmers with passion and light.”
“VERY ENGAGING
As someone familiar with Block Island, I loved this book and story line. So relevant but also timeless questions. I highly recommend.”
“I DID NOT WANT THIS STORY TO END!
So well written, I didn’t want this story to end. Another great book by JC.. each one gets better! I loved the characters, Eve & Gus.. but the entire story was just so good! Once again with the familiar sites of RI, Block Island.. a great, contemporary novel that hit home on so many great issues!”
