TL;DR
In "By the Book," Jasmine Guillory weaves a modern fairy tale about Isabelle, an editorial assistant in publishing, who discovers love and self-acceptance while helping a brooding author overcome his writer's block.
What is By the Book about
"By the Book" is a contemporary romantic novel and the second installment in the "Meant to Be" series, which features reimagined fairy tales. The story follows Isabelle, a young Black woman working at a publishing house, who feels stagnant and unfulfilled in her career. When tasked with motivating the elusive author Beau Towers, she ventures to his Santa Barbara home, only to realize they both grapple with their insecurities. The narrative explores themes of ambition, identity, and the transformative power of connection, all while drawing parallels to the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast.
By the Book 6 Key Takeaways
Isabelle's struggle with her career.
At 25, Isabelle finds herself stuck as an editorial assistant, living at home and feeling the weight of being the only Black employee at her publishing house. This dissatisfaction propels her to seek more fulfillment in her life.
The challenge of motivating Beau Towers.
Izzy is sent to encourage Beau, a high-profile author, to meet his manuscript deadline. Her initial optimism is quickly met with his withdrawn demeanor, presenting her with the challenge of breaking through his defenses.
The development of the relationship between Izzy and Beau.
As they spend time together, Izzy and Beau open up about their struggles and dreams. Their mutual understanding fosters a budding romance that brings depth to their characters.
Confronting personal insecurities.
Both Izzy and Beau confront their pasts and insecurities. This journey of self-discovery is integral to their growth and the evolution of their relationship.
The culmination of Izzy’s professional ambitions and personal growth.
As Beau begins to write and Izzy supports him, she also finds her voice in the publishing world. The connection they build not only enhances Beau's work but also helps Izzy reclaim her ambitions.
The importance of acceptance and love.
The novel emphasizes that true understanding and acceptance of oneself and others are vital for personal growth, echoing the fairy tale's core message of love conquering inner demons.
Top By the Book Quotes
- "Sometimes, to truly know a person, you have to read between the lines of their story."
- "Love is not just about finding someone; it’s about understanding and accepting each other’s flaws."
- "In the pursuit of our dreams, we often forget to acknowledge our own worth."
Who should read By the Book?
"By the Book" is ideal for readers who enjoy contemporary romance with a touch of whimsy and depth. Fans of modern fairy tales and those seeking narratives that explore identity, ambition, and love will find inspiration and resonance in this engaging tale.
By the Book Best Reviews
- "By the Book is a charming and witty retelling filled with humor and heart that captures the essence of romance in a fresh way." - BookPage
- "Guillory's reimagining is not just a love story; it's a celebration of identity and ambition amid a modern fairy tale backdrop." - Bustle
- "This novel effortlessly combines romance and self-discovery, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary love stories." - Kirkus Reviews
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By the Book FAQs
Is By the Book part of a series?
Yes, By the Book is the second novel in the Meant to Be series, which features modern reimaginings of classic fairy tales.
What is the central message of By the Book?
The novel conveys themes of self-acceptance, the importance of understanding and loving oneself, and the transformative power of genuine connections.