Jana Goes Wild is about second chances and leaps of faith. If you’re invested in two characters trying to move through some bad blood and the weight of the past, then you should keep reading this book review.
Summary
Jana Suleiman has never really fit in—everyone always sees her as too aloof, too cool, too perfect. The one time she stepped out of her comfort zone she ended up with a broken heart and a baby on the way. Aaaand lesson learned . Now she’s a bridesmaid for a destination wedding in Serengeti National Park, and almost everyone she knows will be there. Her five-year-old daughter. Her mom. Her friends. Even her potential new boss. And of course (because who doesn’t love surprises!) her gorgeous-but-not-to-be-trusted ex.
Fortunately, Anil Malek is a great dad, even if Jana hasn’t quite forgiven him for lying to her all those years ago. Determined to show he has no effect on her whatsoever, she and the bridesmaids concoct a go-wild list to get Jana through the week. Sing karaoke? Sure. Perform their high school dance routine in front of strangers? Okay. But the more she lets down her guard, the less protection she has against her attraction to Anil. And Jana soon realizes it’s one thing to walk on the wild side . . . and quite another to fall for her ex all over again.
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
I am a fan of Farah Heron so when I saw Jana Goes Wild I was so excited. And while this isn’t my favorite of hers, I think if you’re committed to second chance storylines, this still might be for you. It’s a book about wondering if we can put the past behind us, move forwards, and it doesn’t shy away from the emotional baggage and whiplash. For Jana, not only did Anil lie to her, but she suffered misogynistic rumors and more.
Rightly so, Jana has a twofold chip on her shoulder. This unexpected reunion forces Jana to confront her feelings. To see if it’s possible for Jana and Anil’s relationship to move into friendlier territory. Jana Goes Wild is entirely focused on Jana. On her figuring out her future, her feelings towards Anil, and her ability to leave her comfort zone. While there were some moments that felt particularly repetitive, especially towards the end, I enjoyed it.
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I think if you are intrigued by romantic tension and second chance love – and truly exploring how you get beyond the past (if you can) then you will enjoy Jana Goes Wild. There’s a strong sense of setting which will captivate you and I – predictably so – loved Imani. Additionally, watching Jana unfurl and find a sense of friendship and her own value was certainly precious. Find Jana Goes Wild on Goodreads, Storygraph, Amazon, Bookshop.org, & Blackwells.