Expectations

This wonderful novel provided precisely the perspective and resolve that I so seldom see in other books and stories in today's age. Too many modern works take issues of morality far too lightly, and too many specifically-Christian works make purity seem "easy" for those who are "really" committed to serving God. Melanie Jeschke's riveting novel "Expectations" acknowledges and deeply explores the challenges and temptations that young adults face throughout adolescence and courtship. The story takes place in 1960s Oxford, England, and while the love story that transpires between the two main characters is perfectly constructed and well-detailed within the setting and time period, the core elements of their relationship and interactions can be lifted from the book and applied to the present day. In other words, Jeschke is providing readers simultaneously with a beautiful, page-turning read AND a blueprint for how to hold oneself and one's love to high, Christian standards. I am an avid reader of "Classics" and "canon works," and sometimes fall prey to the false mentality that all time spent reading should be spent on the day's newspaper or critically-acclaimed great works by writers like James Joyce and Philip Roth. A friend gave me "Expectations" while we were at the beach, and so I made the time for it, anticipating a quick, breezy beach-read. I was floored by what I read. Jeschke's novel was more than worth my time and has stayed with me - the endearing story and the emotional resonance of so many parts - for over a year now. The appeal of "Expectations" is not limited to those who believe in God. For everyone out there who likes any combination of C. S. Lewis, England, the '60s, drinking in pubs, and falling in love, get a copy of this book. You'll be glad you did. I highly recommend beginning by reading Jeschke's first novel in the series, "Inklings." And the third in the series, a prequel entitled "Evasions," has just been released!

Melanie has such a gift for writing. We learn history along with a good romance. She manages to make each book new and fresh. I eagerly anticipate her next novel, due in August, 2006!

This is a great read and true to the spirit of Lewis and Tolkein.

After reading Melanie Jeschke's INKLINGS and INTENTIONS, and enjoying those thoroughly... I was anticipating the sequel, EXPECTATIONS!! Jeschke more than met my expectations in her novel! She blew me away as the story took turns and developed in ways I was not ready for! It is refreshing to read this genre and feel excited, uplifted, encouraged and ready to read more! As soon as I received EXPECTATIONS, I had to read the entire book... THEN, went back and re-read INKLINGS/INTENTIONS and EXPECTATIONS again back to back. Jeschke does a wonderful job of developing her characters with realism and truth that shines through - no "candy store formula" in these novels. The other benefit is that I soooo want to travel to Oxford, Cambridge, Castle Coombe and the other places to see them for myself... preferably WITH Melanie to here her thoughts,etc. You really think you will meet David Mackenzie and Kate and Stuart and crew on the streets of Oxford! THANK YOU, Melanie for writing a great novel and chronicles - CANNOT wait for the next one!

It's not often I read a book more than once. As a matter of fact, in all my years I can only recall reading two books twice. Thus, it is a major surprise to me that I have read these books, The Oxford Chronicles (Inklings and now Expectations), FOUR TIMES!!! I have got to say that they are the BEST romance novels I've ever read. Maybe because it's a story that goes beyond romance. You don't have to be a "romance junkie" to enjoy this excellent piece of literature. Maybe it's because of the time period. I remember the 60's quite well. Or maybe because Mrs. Jeschke's characters are not only believable, but they become so real that you feel as if you're actually a part of what's happening. You identify with their disappointments - you share in their joy. I even cried. Or maybe it's her incredible ability in describing Oxford, Cambridge, Castle Combe and even Paris (I've been to Paris, but would like to return because of the tour I took in Expectations.) I even felt the coldness as I toured beautiful Castle Combe after the snow (I've never been to Castle Combe). Maybe it's because of her in-depth knowledge of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and other "literary giants." I certainly enjoyed and appreciated learning more of Lewis and Tolkien. You come to see them as real people as well as extraordinary men. I especially loved the true story of how Edith and J.R.R. Tolkien met, fell in love and eventually married. The forgotten truth of "purity" in Inklings, is carried over in Expectations, but with OH, SO MUCH MORE! What happens to dreams deferred? Read Expectations and find out. Melanie Jeschke does a SUPERIOR job of putting so many details and intricate parts together to create an enjoyable and compelling story that you won't want to put it down. Trust me, you too will not only read it again and again, but pass it on to friends as well. Thank you Mrs. Jeschke for the great service you have done to the literary world. I like your style! Expectations definitely went beyond my expectations. And this Meticulous Reader has become your number one fan! I look forward to the next book in this series.