Here are answers to common questions about the Jolene Novels and more. If your question isn't here, reach out via the contact page.
The series follows Jolene Stansen, a teenaged ballerina from Santa Barbara, California, her older goth sister Mary, and their various friends (Logan, Piper) and love interests (Matt, Anthony, Justin).
The series follows Jolene Stansen's adventures in ballet, high school, and romance. Start with Not Even Paris (Book 1), then Not Even Paris: The Lost Year (Book 1.5, a novella bridging events in Paris), followed by Not Even Homecoming (Book 2). Book 1.5 is optional but adds depth to Jolene's "lost year" abroad. More books are planned—stay tuned!
Each book has a self-contained story arc, but they're best read in order for character development (e.g., Jolene's growth from shy ballerina to confident teen, and ongoing relationships like with Matt or Anthony). References to past events (e.g., Jolene's time in Paris) will make more sense sequentially.
They're YA (Young Adult) romance with coming-of-age themes, suitable for teens 14+ and adults who enjoy lighthearted high school drama. They include mature elements like kissing, underage drinking (in Book 2 & 3), and emotional topics—see content warnings below.
Each book has an Author Note with specifics. Overall: mild language, romantic tension (kissing, some without consent in Book 2), underage drinking/intoxication (Book 2), body shaming (Book 1.5), metaphorical references to self-harm/anorexia/drug use (Book 1), and ogling behavior. No explicit content. If you spot something I missed, let me know via the contact page!
Character references are at the end of each book (condensed and full versions). The soundtrack (music mentioned in the text) is on rebeccajonesbooks.com/soundtrack—perfect for playlists while reading!
Yes and no! The series is complete in my head and much of it is written, but not all of it is published. Book 3 is in progress (tentative title: Not Even Mine—focusing on more drama with Jolene, Mary, and the crew). No firm release date, but sign up for my newsletter or follow my socials for updates. Aim: 2026/early 2027.
Pure fiction! Jolene's world draws from my love of ballet and high school tropes, but names, characters, and incidents are imagined. Any resemblances are coincidental.
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Email: Rebecca@RebeccaJonesBooks.com. Follow on my socials for real-time chats, or sign up for the newsletter on the site for exclusive previews and release news. I love hearing from readers!
Not currently scheduled, but I'm open to virtual events or signings. Check the events page or sign up for my newsletter for announcements. Personalized signed copies are available in my store.
Available on Amazon (eBook, paperback), Barnes & Noble, and other major retailers. ISBNs: Not Even Paris (979-8-9999681-0-4), Not Even Paris: The Lost Year (TBD), Not Even Homecoming (979-8-9999681-1-1). Links on the books page. Support indie bookstores by requesting them!
Currently print and eBook only. Audio versions are a goal. Sign up for my newsletter for announcements about them!
Yes! For bloggers/reviewers, apply here. ARCs for upcoming books go out via newsletter subscribers first.
The series initially sparked as an answer to the cancelation of "My So-called Life" in the 90s. Jolene and friends have been brewing ever since.
Possibly! The Adventures of Quinn and Courtney, or Mary shorts are definitely being considered! Fan feedback welcome!
The series leans into wholesome, witty YA romance with tropes like grumpy/sunshine dynamics (especially between sisters Jolene and Mary), indulgent love triangles (Jolene's crushes and complications with guys like Matt, Anthony, and Justin), enemies-to-lovers vibes in friendships/rivalries, best friends to more, and forced proximity moments (e.g., group trips, shared classes, or Paris adventures). It's all about emotional growth, banter, and swoony tension—zero explicit content!
Yes! The grumpy/sunshine sisters dynamic shines between optimistic, bookish Jolene (the sunshine) and her more cynical/popular half-sister Mary (the grumpy one). It adds humor, emotional depth, and grounding to the story. Readers love how their contrasting personalities create funny clashes and heartfelt support. Similar vibes appear in other relationships too!
Absolutely—an indulgent love triangle is central, especially in Book 1 and carrying into later books. Jolene navigates crushes and complications (think high school drama with guys like her longtime crush Matt, the charming Anthony, and the bold Justin). It's fun, and focuses on her figuring out what she wants without heavy angst. Some toxic elements—and lots of witty yearning!
Light enemies-to-lovers sparks appear in some dynamics (e.g., initial misunderstandings, rivalries in school/social scenes, or banter that turns flirty). It's more "sparky tension" than outright hate, leading to growth and chemistry. Perfect for readers who love that slow-build shift from friction to feelings.
Yes—several moments use forced proximity for maximum awkwardness and bonding! Think group trips (like the cabin in Book 2), shared classes/projects, Paris living arrangements, or party/holiday chaos where characters can't escape each other. These create great tension, revelations, and swoony scenes.
Definitely! Jolene's friendships (like with Logan or evolving ones with others) sometimes hint at deeper feelings or "best friend energy" turning romantic. It's sweet, slow-burn, and emphasizes trust and comfort—ideal for readers who prefer low-drama, heartfelt connections.
- Glow-up/coming-of-age (Jolene's confidence boost post-Paris, style changes, self-discovery). - High school/teen drama (dances, parties, ASB antics, crushes in class). - Found family/friend group vibes (the evolving crew of friends and family). - Yearning/crush-from-afar (classic pining in math class or from afar). - Misunderstandings that lead to growth (overheard comments, assumptions fixed with communication). The series keeps things light, funny, and focused on emotional payoff.
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