Because of the title and Reay's first book I thought I was in for another retelling of a classic. I couldn't have been more wrong. While there are references to Austin, her books, and even to Hemingway, this is an original story about a woman who is trying to rebuild her family relationships. This comes about as she cares for her sister who is going through cancer. I enjoyed Reay's second book and look forward to more in the future. In the opening chapters, as Elizabeth was describing her life in New York City as a chef, I was totally bored. She was self-absorbed and seemed to have issues with her family and those she worked with. As the story developed and Lizzy went to Seattle to care for her sister, Jane, I began to comprehend why the things of her past had affected her present so dramatically. Both Lizzy and Jane learned about each other and grew and were able to open themselves up. I came to see that this story was about relationships.I loved the connections that were made between the books that individuals read and the type of food they liked. Lizzy's cooking for cancer patients became a way of using her talents for unselfish means. She began to put herself out there and take risks and became a loving person.
What do You think about Lizzy & Jane (2014)?
Liked her first book better but that didn't keep me tron staying up until 1am to finish it.
—Jesus
Pretty good-especially for someone or their family going through cancer.
—Lory
The book kept my attention, but overall it fell a bit flat.
—Peaches
Decent story but I grew tired of the cooking references.
—pianokid12
