My Lady Jane audiobook

“My lady,” he said gallantly, “I’m willing to stop whenever you are. Perhaps you’d be better off sticking to more womanly pursuits, like embroidery or music or-“She bashed him in the ribs. 4 1/2 stars. This was so much fun. So much fun. Turns out that a good laugh at my country's expense is exactly what I needed right about now.Before you pick up this book, make sure of two things:1) You know what you're about to read. This is a silly, lighthearted historical comedy, full of Monty Python-style jokes, puns and mockery. I also thought the story was very well-executed, but don't be expecting a high-angst drama (beyond the comical variety).2) Be in the mood for it. Like I said, it's a very specific type of book and it won't suit everyone. I usually prefer tension, action and "oh shit, what's going to happen next" books. But I sat down to read this wanting something funny, entertaining and undemanding. That's what I got.If you meet those two requirements, there's really nothing to dislike. This book does exactly what it promises and it does it very well. It's the kind of laugh snort embarrassingly out loud story that will get you some strange looks from other people. I just couldn't stop giggling to myself. “I asked him to change back to talk to me, but he won’t,” Jane said. “It’s disrespectful to remain a horse in the bedchamber, I should think.” This is a Tudor retelling set during the reign of the young Edward VI. In this reimagining, instead of the infamous divide between Protestants and Catholics (fostered by Henry VIII's disregard for the Catholic church), we see a war between Verities and Eðians. The latter have the power to shapeshift into various animals, and the former hate them for it.Mocking sexist attitudes and the ridiculous social graces of the 16th Century upper classes, the story unveils the "true story" about Lady Jane Grey - the one that history has hidden from us. She was a woman who wore pants. She couldn’t be trusted. I've already said that it's very funny, but for such a light, silly book, it is remarkably well-plotted. The story itself, behind the quips and hilarity, is compelling and features all kinds of royal backstabbing, secrets and craziness.It is a warm, lovable, over-the-top rewriting of history and I enjoyed every minute of it. Unlike most funny books, the humour remains constant throughout, never running dry or feeling forced. I only hope this trio of authors continue to write comedy together. Because it dazzles.Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Youtube | Store

It was amusing. It was romantic. It was slightly based on medieval history. And it was a gem.I'm dancing like a happy ferret! “You may think you know the story. It goes like this: once upon a time, there was a sixteen-year old girl named Jane Grey, who was forced to marry a complete stranger (Lord Guildford or Gilford or Gifford-something-or-other), and shortly thereafter found herself ruler of a country. She was queen for nine days. Then she quite literally lost her head.” As the authors kindly inform us, that is not the story they narrate us. The original story is flat and a little morbid (unless you're enjoying beheadings-in that case I can recommend you some great TV shows). My Lady Jane though is refreshing. It takes place in a divided England, only religion is not the cause of this division. There are shapeshifters and the ones-who-hate-shapeshifters-and-want-to-burn-them-alive-or-chop-their-heads-whatever-just-kill-them. There is a spoiled king who doesn't want to die before being kissed. There is a feisty girl who loves books better than people (no it's not me in case you're wondering) and a boy that spends his days as a horse and villains who want the throne for themselves and outlaws and everything you could ask for from a historical fiction/ fantasy/ comedic book. That's why I'm still dancing like a happy ferret. The first thing that occured to me as I started reading My Lady Jane was that Jane's books' titles reminded me of The Sims Medieval. The second was that since Jane's mother was Frances Brandon Grey, her grandfather was the first Duke of Suffolk, Charles Brandon. Which means that this was her grandfather.That lucky bitch.After recovering from the shock that I'm reading about Henry Cavill's descendant, I recalled everything I know about british history (knowledge acquired by watching every historical television series and searching Wikipedia for hours) and I realized I didn't mind the changes! In fact, I preferred the changes! The writing trio did a marvelous job, there was not a single moment I wanted to put the book down! The sarcastic and hilarious narration, the conspiracies, the strong-minded female characters and the swoonworthy steed are My Lady Jane's trademarks, and I kept giggling and swooning and thanking the book gods for this creation! Three authors yet you could not possibly tell, their writing was flawless, fluid and utterly enjoyable! Do not expect a thought-provoking, life-altering book, but you'll love it nonetheless! “Through books she could see the world.” Jane, Edward and Gifford (you can call him G, I call him my lord husband). Three different but equally fascinating (and stubborn) characters that will seize your heart from the start! Jane is undoubtedly the main one (you know, My Lady Jane), and you can't help but relate to her, especially when it comes to her precious books! She's the book girl, supporter of the weak, and does not tolerate male authority. Which means she constantly fights with my her husband G, the husband she hated (and unfairly judged) at first but later she couldn't help but fall in love with, because he has that effect. My only problem with her was that she thought she could do everything alone (when she couldn't) and would never listen to the voice of reason when it came to her safety. Obviously it's a trait that every YA heroine shares, regardless the time setting and the circumstances. In My Lady Jane, Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton and Jodi Meadows combine their divine writing powers (a gift from the book gods if you ask me), which result into a story full of humor, romance, magic and adventure that will make you smile and wish that school history books were written in the same fashion!I'm off to dance like a happy ferret!

4.5 stars This revisionist retelling of Lady Jane Grey's brief reign and romance shouldn't work--but it does! It's deliriously dotty and clever, with affectionate nods to great absurdist historical comedies like THE PRINCESS BRIDE, Monty Python, and even, I think, Black Adder and LADYHAWKE. The ridiculously punny humor had me giggling from beginning to end.It's also superbly well-crafted, especially considering the three POVs were written by three different authors, and the historical details and context are inserted with just the right touch. Most notably, the strict mores and sexism of the time are observed and acknowledged before they are slyly subverted, particularly in the fantastically endearing and capable women (only one of whom wields a weapon). It's hard to believe a tragic moment in history could be turned into such a delightful confection of joyous alternate history, but The Lady Janies have done it. Review to come. Love it to pieces.

I freaking loved this. I'm making everyone I know read it ASAP! P.S. Video review to come

If you’re looking for a fluffy YA historical fiction that also included fantasy… this is it! I ended up laughing out loud a few times and definitely recommend it. The way the authors decide to retell - and let’s call it what it is - pretty much completely change history, was a lot of fun! I hope they’ll come out with more!

3.75⭐️Without a doubt, the silliest book I’ve ever read and I loved every joyous moment of it. RTC~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~DedicationFor everyone who knows there was enough room for Leonardo DiCaprio on that door.And for England. We’re really sorry for what we’re about to do to your history.Oh, I cannot wait for this.

Definitely not my normal cuppa, but still a cute book!I'm not a history buff, so I had no idea (or at least no recollection) of any Lady Jane or her short-lived reign as Queen of England.Not that I'd let a thing like that stop me... So it turns out that this was a fictionalized (read: alternate universe) version of that story.But with the added bonus of shapeshifters & a happy ending!Oh, oh! And it's funny! Yeah. So if you are someone who knows about this lady, or even historical stuff in general, I'm betting you'll enjoy this even more than I did.

Honestly I-...no that's not a good start.IF YOU EVER READ THIS BOOK, DON'T. LISTEN TO THIS BOOK FIRST OMGSH PLEASE YES IT IS THE BEST EVER PRAISE GOES TO KATHERINE KELLGREN OMGSH YOU WERE MADE TO READ THIS BOOK TO ALL THE WORLD.I finished two point five incredible books on the same day, so my brain is a little fried from delight. Seriously I have to keep reminding myself to come write this review and stop dancing in the kitchen with the dogs or asking the cats if they are actually from the bloodline of King Henry VIII's.*composes self*I was so giddy about everything in this book. Like seriously so giddy. I was always laughing out-loud which was completely awkward when you are standing in line at the check out, let me tell you.If you are in need of a laugh and a light read, read this book I beg you.If you are in need of a feminist-like book, read this book I beg you.If you are in need of a history lesson, read this book I beg you.Seriously this is about Queen Jane's reign of like, what, nine days? I am not too sure, since I am not an expert on the matter, but these author's are. They did their homework and found out the very (not so) truth of what happened in that time with Queen Jane.Young King Edward is dying. He caught a tragic disease. He's never been kissed and all he has in the world are his two darling sisters, his beautiful cousin Jane and his dog, Pet (how original, I know). Since he doesn't have any children, his throne would go to his sister Mary, unfortunately, until one of his advisers gives him another idea...Jane is the Belle of the story. The girl who just wants to read books (so, you know, all of us) and then read some more books and then HER MOTHER MARRIES HER OFF TO A GUY WHO TURNS INTO A HORSE (That's the beast, if you weren't catching on). She is mortified, humiliated and NOT HAPPY. HE IS A HORSE WHAT IN BLAZES IS SHE SUPPOSE TO DO WITH A HORSE.Said horse, Gifford, can't control that by day he is a steed and by night he is a man. And why does she always have her nose in a book anyway? Is she not pleasant looking? Heaven forbids he marries someone who looks like an animal.Gifford belongs to a group of people called Eðian (eth-y-un). They have two different forms. But they are hated by those who don't. I kind of got the whole Protestants and Catholics feel from the tension between the two groups.And that's all I am going to say to you. You should know the gist of this story (it is history, you know) but a lot of the major details were missed in the history books. You'll have to read this book to know the (not so) truth.So if you fit in any of the categories listed above (needs a laugh, likes equality, history buff) then you should read this book. It was really hilarious.

Oh my goodness, that was the best thing ever!Is it possible for a book to be sweet, funny, awesome, and led by a cast of amazing narrators? Indeed it is, because that book is My Lady Jane.When I first heard about it, I was skeptical. A comical retelling of Lady Jane Grey, written by three different authors? It sounded like a recipe for disaster. As it turned out, I've never read a better co-authored novel. The writing flowed so I couldn't tell the authors apart and the chapters transitioned smoothly.The plot was absolutely hilarious and witty. The comparisons to The Princess Bride were spot on. I appreciated that the humor wasn't silly or crude (as I was afraid it would be), but clever and sarcastic.Meet Jane. She's about to marry a total stranger since her cousin, Edward VI, is dying, and she's next in line for the throne, but all Jane wants to do is read her books. Meanwhile, Edward has problems of his own to worry about - there are plots to overthrow him, he's slowly dying of "the Affliction," and he's never even kissed a girl!There were ties to the original Jane Grey story, but the world was changed so that the courts raging against each other were "Verities" and "Eðians." Eðians are people who possess the power to shape-shift into animals, but there are those in the court who deem them "beasts" and believe they should be burned at the stake. So. Her husband was a horse.And no one had told her. I loved the slow-burn romance. Jane and Gifford, otherwise known as "G," were total strangers upon their first meeting (at their wedding) and hated each other. Of course, they gradually learned to tolerate one another, though there were too many infuriating almost-kisses in my opinion (The Lady Janies could be so cruel!). In their bedchamber, Jane set a pillow and blanket on the floor next to the bed.“Jane, I cannot allow you to sleep on the floor,” G said gallantly.She smiled. “The pillow and blanket are for you, my lord.” From a book I didn't expect much from, this turned out to be absolutely magical, adventurous, and heartwarming. I don't see how anyone could fail to fall in love with this story and its wonderful characters.

What a DELIGHT. This book was such a treat. I already want to read it all over again. Easiest 5 stars I've given all year. Also, pro tip: if you guys want to read this you should definitely consider the audiobook! One of the best I've ever listened to. Everything about this was just SO DAMN GOOD.

This was so lovely and entertaining! I don't think it was quite at the level of loving and engrossing me, but I enjoyed it a lot!I especially loved the characters and the mixing in of actual history with a fictional book. It was quite well done!I guess this would be labeled a comedy, and it was funny, but I never laughed out loud. A lot of internal laughing happened, though.THE REFERENCES. SO MANY REFERENCES. My life is lived in references to books and tv shows and movies so all the little Easter eggs were right up my ally.Overall really enjoyable kind-of historical fiction with a magical twist!

If you told me I would read a story about a girl who marries a man who turns into a horse and then becomes the Queen of England (for nine whole days, may I add) and has to attempt to save all of England I probably would have laughed at you. But then again it's 2018 so I really shouldn't be surprised that YES, I read a story like this, and YES, I loved it. I'm still trying to figure out three things though:1) HOW IS THIS EVEN REAL?2) WHY DID I ENJOY THIS SO MUCH?3) WHY DOES THIS MAN WHO TURNS INTO A HORSE REMIND ME OF MY HUSBAND SO MUCH? (Seriously, they even have the same nickname)These are the important questions, my friends. Before I get started, I just want to note, if you have not read this yet do yourself a favor and listen to the audiobook. It is amazing and the narrator is a riot. She brought the story to life so well and had me howling at my desk at work while listening to this. If my coworkers didn't already think I was a lunatic they do now. MOVING ON!Jane, our MC, who like us shares a book addiction, can't be bothered by literally anything other than her books. She especially cannot be bothered that she's next in line for the throne when her cousin Edward dies. So when her cousin, who is very much dying, marries her off to a total stranger in an attempt to save the throne she is obviously less than pleased. All goes as well as possibly expected when you're getting married to a total stranger and know that you have partake in the "the special hug" later that night. I swear to God I can't even make this stuff up. Anyway, it all goes as expected until Jane's new husband, Gifford (a.k.a) G, literally turns into a horse the morning after they are married. Yes friends, you read that right. A HORSE.Now I don't want to give away too much about this story because you just need to experience this for yourself. And it is quite the experience. But just know that Jane, G, and Edward go an epic journey to save all of England from a certain vengeful someone who is trying to secure the throne. I'm no history guru and will admit that I did have to look up who Lady Jane Grey was before starting this but that only furthered my love for this story. The authors did a fantastic job of twisting England's history into a magical, hilarious, heart-warming love story that instantly hooks its readers (it also includes a much happier ending for Lady Jane Grey as well).I mean seriously, JUST READ THIS! “No horse jokes," he said."My lord, I apologize for the horse joke. If you put down the book---unharmed!---I will give you a carrot."He brandished the book at her. "Was that a horse joke?""Neigh.""Was that a horse joke?” Again, this is quite the experience.All in all, if you're looking a fun, fast-paced, epic journey to go on with the most lovable characters ever then look no further than this. And if you don't like this OFF WITH YOUR HEAD!!! (just kidding 😉)P.S- this includes the hate to love trope! (a.k.a the best trope ever)

okay but the title shoulda been my king Edward cause he was the highlight of this book for me. until he wasn't. but still! buddyread with chandler 👑 and veronique 🌹 so initially I said I wanted a wild ride, I wanted to laugh a ton & I wanted to understand what was going on. check, check & check !!but like... it was still kinda lacking. anyways, onward to the good! the bad! & my messy review! Edward : a teenage king suffering from the Affliction, with only a year to live and the poor boy hasn’t even had his first kiss. it’s a sad life for Edward, who decides; Life is short. And then you die. not gonna lie, from the looks of things, he was a horrible king, but I STILL FELT BAD FOR MY BOY. like who to trust when everyone’s against you? so glad he pulled through. yeah yeah he was anti-feminist but that’s to be expected in that era, and he changed so it’s alllll good. Jane : so like, I think I expected to like her a lot more than I ended up liking her. she wasn’t exactly the most... intriguing? like i was kinda done with her bullshit near the end of the book. and like, I get she wasn’t expected to be reading YA fantasy but her obsession with books about literally everything wasn’t exactly relatable. but like. she treats her books well. that’s always nice. Gifford : when I say I love horses... I mean all horses except for Edians. kinda ruined the vibe for me, didn’t you G? and to think that he was actually ok with the nickname G? like noooope your Gifford Dudley in my book still, son. Needless to say; I didn’t really like him all that much. BESS : YOU SEE THAT ALL CAPS? it’s cause I actually loved her and needed more from her! Queen ELIZABETH?? my lack of history knowledge made that a plot twist folks, and I loved it. Like I literally. Wish. There. Was. More. Bess. She just seemed so smart & fit to be queen. Gracie : yeah, nope. I’m done with “I can’t forget you’re king therefore I shan't accept your love for me” trope because like, the boy is in front of you in peasant clothes and he could be executed any minute I do not believe this counts as being "king". I did like the narration a lot though! I could hear the British voice going through my head as I read , and it added a load to the experience. In the end... I was just lacking some, like, realistic aspects? and somehow things always worked out in the favor of our trio. I thought there was going to be some excitement, especially when they were fighting the mythical bear but... nope. The fantasy was just stupid to be honest. Also... I’m no history person, I took the required credit in grade 10 and that’s about it, so I can’t say much about the accuracy. But technically speaking, it’s not supposed to be that accurate, right? so why y'all complaining?This did make me laugh though. You really have to read it for yourself, but it’s super light and entertaining. Like don’t expect executions and gory history and crazy fantasy - read this book when you’re ready to have some fun, relax, and read about (mostly Edward) but Lady Jane :) Now I actually have an interest in her beheading and I’m going to do some research !! ---------------------INITIAL THOUGHTS ; I’m diving headfirst into a book that supposedly will - make me laugh - give me a roller coaster ride - I don’t understand anything in the synopsis so I better understand what’s going on - I literally thought “Cynthia Hand” was “Claudia Gray” so yeah that’s me for you

Well this was an absolute delight.All the hype was true! I was a bit worried at first but even at the introduction, I got it. I have to be honest though- I think this is the type of book that will really only appeal to you if this is your type of humor (very much British humor with nods to "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" and even little references to "The Princess Bride" and "Tangled" - yep, the Disney movie.)Not to mention, the story was absolutely charming. Granted, I wasn't 100% familiar with the real story- but I feel like I am now, even though this stretched the truth by miles (literally... and with humans having the magical ability to turn into animals.) The narrators frequently interject the story providing hilarious tid bits of information on actual history. Even still, it was a super light read and the perfect book if you're in the mood for comedic relief mixed in with a fantasy take on historical fiction. Really, the dedication says it all... “DedicationFor everyone who knows there was enough room for Leonardo DiCaprio on that door.And for England. We’re really sorry for what we’re about to do to your history.” It follows 3 characters - Jane, Gifford, and Edward - who all have their fun little personalities. I was entertained on every page. Needless to say, though this might have been a little predictable at times- I was still hyped up and rooting for all of them individually. I have to say, Gifford was probably my favorite. His personality was hysterical and he was so precious - though Edward was right behind him.Even with all the humor, some of the legit quotes in here surprised me.. "The fool thinks he is wise," G retorted. "But the wise man knows himself to be a fool.” Overall, this gets a standing ovation from me and a glowing recommendation- so long as you are clear on what to expect! Basically what I'm saying is this book is precious and needs to be a movie. Lastly, if you're looking for something similar- check out "These Vicious Masks"! This really reminded me of the humor in that book - both are a fun take on historical fiction with the added bonus of magic and comedic relief. My Blog ~ Instagram ~ Twitter ~ Etsy

4.75 stars!!!Full mini reviewI'm willing to MARRY a horse if it goes by the name of Gifford Dudley. Now this book is about the Tudors which were quite known as England's most notorious dynasty. What I love about this book is its captivating writing style and the charming characters. It was a delightful, exciting, magical, and hilarious book. When I read this book, I became curious on what really happened to lady Jane Grey's reign for nine freaking days! I was also intrigued about her life and her adorable husband's life. I read the true story and I was amazed because the authors managed to recreate the history. They added humor, magic, adventure, and romance which made this book absolutely phenomenal. The authors combined their genius minds and impressive writing skills to come up with a bloody brilliant book.Let's talk about Lady Jane. I like her character because she's headstrong, stubborn, smart, and of course, she's a bookworm. But what really made me fall in love with this book is Gifford Dudley or "G" for short. He's a gentleman. He's also smart, kind, charming, and funny. I also liked this book because the two main characters were kind of falls to the category of "enemies to lovers". Their romantic relationship developed slowly. It was such a tease in a really good way.All in all, this book was romantic, sweet, touching, witty, enchanting, and really incredible. I wasn't expecting to love this book. It surprised the hell out of me. I really can't wait to read the next book.

UPDATE 12-13-15The ARCs are here! Please ask the publicity department at HarperTeen, as we do not have very many ourselves to give away! So pretty!UPDATE 10-15-15And WE HAVE A COVER, people. And it is oh-so-beautiful.UPDATE 9-3-15Well, the book is through copy edits, it has a cover (check back for the reveal), a jacket copy, and it is well under way to becoming a real book!It turned out SO GREAT, you guys. It may be the best book, in some respects, that I have ever worked on. Woohoo!