As an introvert, Jana Suleiman often feels out of place in large groups and sticks to her comfort zone. The one time she tried something new—by falling in love with the charming Anil Malik—she was left heartbroken with a baby on the way. Jana vows to never repeat her mistakes and to avoid Anil at all costs. Now as a bridesmaid in a destination wedding in Tanzania with her mom and 4-year-old daughter, Jana is surprised, and frankly, quite upset, to find the father of her child suddenly joining the trip as a groomsman. Jana desperately wants to avoid Anil, but the heart wants what it wants.

Incidentally, I read JANA GOES WILD on a destination wedding in Tulum, and I immensely enjoyed how the novel reflects my IRL experience. I adore the descriptions of the wedding, the celebration of love, and all the touristy things described in the book. Attending weddings & reading about them always allow me to reflect on my own marriage and how different personalities have shaped how we celebrate & show love.

But on top of the cute, fun rom-com, JANA GOES WILD also explores how past mistakes can hold us back. I resonate with Jana as we're both extreme introverts who never know what to do at large parties and have trouble forgiving people who've wronged us. While this is oftentimes a self-protective mechanism, Hernon also shows that it can inadvertently keep us from moving forward. While I don't necessarily agree with all the characters' decisions in JANA GOES WILD, I adore Hernon's messages that by letting go of others' pasts mistakes, we're setting ourselves free too.

As a novel featuring Muslim South Asian characters, there are also plenty of descriptions of delicious food and fun wedding traditions that I adore. For those looking for a light read that will transport you to a vacation full of love, great food, and fun adventures, JANA GOES WILD is your perfect next read

Thank you to Forever for the gifted ARC.