First and foremost, this book should ONLY be experienced by way of the audiobook. Yes, the print exists, but much of the charm is lost and the flaws more apparent. My rating is an average of a 2-star story and a 4+-star audio entertainment.

Also, the narrative won't make any sense outside of the established audience for Jane the Virgin. I can't imagine the appeal being anything but the significant good will amassed by an excellent and innovative show.

What works:
- the dedication, which made me weepy right from the get-go
- the evocation of Jane's story through her fiction and the accompanying emotional beats
- the depiction of Jane's Josephine's relationships with her mother and abuela -- by far the most wonderful part of the series
- above all, the narration (note below) both in quality and in commentary style

What is less successful:
- that cover. I didn't care for it in the context of the episodes, and it is worse in reality
- the translation to historical romance rather than contemporary (though somewhat understandable given author Jane's proclivities), which leads to the most problematic development:
-

Spoiler

since artificial insemination isn't really an option in this setting, the impulsive one-night stand was sort of necessary; however, it significantly compromises the heroine's established character

- the telenovela elements, so entertaining in the program, even the ridiculous arch-villain, are simply goofy here
- the tension of the love triangle isn't fully realized
- the character of Michael Martin is nothing short of hagiographic, which makes him less interesting and more of an idealized construct

audiobook note: So how is it I can still recommend the story? It all comes down to the voice talents of Anthony Mendez and Ivonne Coll. I adore Coll's performance as Alba on the series, and I could listen to her read almost anything (though, truth be told, hearing her narrate the love scenes was a bit odd). She has a warmth and a dexterity that shines in storytelling, no matter the content. Anthony Mendez continues his role as the silky-voiced Narrator who also serves as audience fanboy surrogate, cheering on the characters, breaking in with real-time reactions, and magnifying the delight, pathos, and humor of the entire story experience. A true and gifted professional.