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Jundi
Jane Austen meets The Jungle Book in the midst of a colonial rebellion.
Jundi is a land of mystery and wonder. Deep in the jungle, legends of the White Tiger swirl. Some say he is a beast who rules the other animals. Others claim he symbolizes the rebels who refuse to come under colonial rule.
Gillian has lived in a colonial villa on the edge of the jungle her entire life. She has never known another home beyond the land of Jundi. When her mother decides to leave because of the stirring rebellion, Gillian will return through the only means that she can find, marriage to an officer in the military.
Max, burned by love in the past, will only consider marriage if it enhances his military career. When the old colonel’s daughter shows interest, he will gladly secure Gillian as a means to further his chance of promotion. But he doesn’t expect his heart to become entangled with his ambition.
Gillian seals her future in Jundi, but even that will not be enough to answer the call of the White Tiger within the jungle’s beating heart.
Will Gillian’s and Max’s paths align, or will the rebellion tear their lives apart?
Jundi is a land of mystery and wonder. Deep in the jungle, legends of the White Tiger swirl. Some say he is a beast who rules the other animals. Others claim he symbolizes the rebels who refuse to come under colonial rule.
Gillian has lived in a colonial villa on the edge of the jungle her entire life. She has never known another home beyond the land of Jundi. When her mother decides to leave because of the stirring rebellion, Gillian will return through the only means that she can find, marriage to an officer in the military.
Max, burned by love in the past, will only consider marriage if it enhances his military career. When the old colonel’s daughter shows interest, he will gladly secure Gillian as a means to further his chance of promotion. But he doesn’t expect his heart to become entangled with his ambition.
Gillian seals her future in Jundi, but even that will not be enough to answer the call of the White Tiger within the jungle’s beating heart.
Will Gillian’s and Max’s paths align, or will the rebellion tear their lives apart?
- GenresFantasy
Unknown Binding
Published June 4, 2024
2 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Ella Walker Henderson
23 books66 followersElla Walker Henderson is the author of character driven epic fantasy, full of adventure and a dash of romance. Some of her favorite tropes are enemies to friends to lovers, the heroine's journey, and the chosen duo's quest. She writes about women who must fight for what they love, whether on a battlefield or among friends. As she's always a fan of a good plot twist, you may not know which characters to trust.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 14, 2024
A thrilling friends-to-enemies-to-lovers historical fiction with a touch of fantasy. The writing styles of Jane Austen, Thomas Hardy and Elizabeth Gaskell meets the stories of The Blue Sword, The Adventures of Tarzan and The Jungle Book with very important aspects of discrimination, colonisation and liberation.
PLOT SUMMARY
Miss Gillian Posenby is 23 years old, born and raised in a villa on the land of Jundi near the edge of the jungle. She has always been drawn to the jungle, and the tales she’s heard growing up about the White Tiger, its ruler with great powers – though believed to be a myth. Gillian has often dreamt of the tiger, and it is said if you do you are chosen to one day be permitted into the White Tiger Village, secretly hidden in the jungle.
Due to conflict between Ambrith the land where her family is from and Jundi from threats of a rebellion, Gillian and her widowed mother (Gilian’s father died in the military 4 years ago) are advised to leave Jundi. Gillian is most reluctant to leave, expected to settle down and marry in Ambrith, but Jundi is the only home she has ever known.
There is a great desire for her to marry family friend Captain Max Bexley, an excellent rifleman of the Ambrithian army. He is expected to wed before he is called away to Jundi, and is immediately captivated by Gillian when they meet. They come to the realisation that they can use each other for their own benefit: Max marrying into the family of the most respected fallen military hero would help him to excel in his already excellent military career, Gillian marrying Max would help her fulfil her desire to return to Jundi.
It is a quick marriage of the greatest convenience, though with each passing day any love they had slips away. Max, after all, is the enemy of the people Gillian has grown up with; and Gillian keeps trying to enter the jungle against Max’s wishes, and he grows suspicious of her actions wondering if she is a spy. But when Max gets captured by the White Tiger Villagers, Gillian must put aside their differences to save him. With an imminent war and inhumane orders from his superiors, Max is torn between duty and love.
This is told from the third-person past-tense POV of Gillian and Max.
OVERALL OPINIONS
When I heard this book is “Jane Austen meets The Jungle Book”, I was most intrigued because the combination is rather rare. Just as Gillian is drawn to the jungle so too was I drawn to this story. And what a tale it is! A beautiful combination of charm and compassion. Every page was eloquently described, and I can see why people would compare it to the likes of Jane Austen, especially during the first half of the book.
The book can be split into three parts: the first part is the introduction to Gilian, her family, the upcoming rebellion, then her journey to Ambrith and the meeting and marriage to Max; the second part is her return to Jundi, the conflicts in their marriage and Max’s disappearance; the third part is the White Tiger Village and the deescalating of the whole situation. I loved the first third where they go to Ambrith and Gillian and Max gets to know each other. Some of the story could be considered predictable (for example, where Venkat is after he disappears) but not fully (I did not expect who was behind this).
The title of the book being Jundi is the most fitting choice as this whole story is more about Jundi than any other thing: from its culture to its stories and its desire for peace. Jundi is all our protagonist Gillian has ever known and is drawn to, and it touches the hearts of all who are there, especially Max.
Interestingly, the prologue and epilogue are from the point of view of the White Tiger when he encounters Gillian as a child and adult respectively. I like that we also have a poem as an epigraph, The Tyger by William Blake. Again, very fitting as this compares the fierce nature of the human soul to a tiger in a jungle – which introduces the aspect of the White Tiger before even beginning the book.
Gillian and Max’s relationship is so complex and I love that it eventually goes from a marriage of convenience with ideal attraction to them working together and supporting each other’s beliefs. I like that they both have lost their fathers and looked up to them the most and bond over it. I also like the character development of them both: Gillian realises she does not have to be directly in Jundi to help them obtain their peace, and Max sees the error of his ways and the people of Jundi. The thing I love the most about Max is he always values Gillian’s opinions even from the first time they speak.
Overall, I really enjoyed this, there has not been anything like it in a while, and I am very interested in checking out her series “Of Wind and Lightning”. More strong female characters in a fantasy setting? Sign me up!
<< Positives >>
🠚Strong female character. I always love this when it is done and done well.
🠚Max’s character arc. This was the most interesting element.
🠚Supportive characters had a purposeful role to the story. Nagular is important within the Jundi community, his getting locked up is the thing that sets a lot of the events into motion. His son Venkat, of course, became a potential love interest. Characters like Max’s sister Rachel and the little girl Inda from the White Tiger Village.
🠚I liked that there were no real villains. The Ambrithians and the colonel could be considered the villains but ultimately everyone is misguided.
🠚I love the whole idea of the White Tiger and when we finally get to meet it. Reminded me of Aslan from Narnia.
🠚A perfect beguiling book cover. Random fact, but the model on the front is a model who supplies stock photos called faestock, and I was obsessed with her work when I was a teenager! I used to put her on the front cover of various fanfictions I used to write. The stock image they picked for the cover can be seen [here].
<< Negatives >>
🠚The relationship was more of a secondary element to the overall plot and I would have loved more moments and chemistry between Max and Gillian. This is a clean book which I accept and can understand if that is why the romance is not so prominent. I just feel it is a waste.
🠚I hated Venkat? Like, he is annoyed at Gillian for not coming to visit sooner, before she left Jundi the first time as if she was able to, and expecting them to start a relationship when she is already married and as if 8 years haven’t gone by since his disappearance? Reddest flag. Max is a whole green jungle.
🠚I feel there should have been an epilogue where we see how Gillian and Max are in Ambrith. I would have liked to have seen a conversation between Gillian and her mother when she returned.
CHARACTERS
-ˋˏ ꒰ Gillian꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ Gillian is a quiet, reserved, well-spoken woman like you would expect from such a time period – but she is not afraid to speak her mind, defy people and stand up for what she believes in. In this manner, she reminds me of Bathsheba Everdeen from Far From the Madding Crowd or Margaret Hale from North and South.
-ˋˏ ꒰ Max꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ Max has the most interesting character development, as mentioned above. Overall, I love his fierce loyalty to his wife and the way he wants to protect her. I like that he goes from concerning about how he is perceived by his men, particularly his wife having him look like a laughing stock for if he is “unable to control” her how will his men take him seriously, to showing his men how highly he respects her and waits for her directions at the end.
It is heartwarming how much he wants to do the right thing, though is torn if it is ever a military order. It is sweet that his loss of innocence is restored through many of the female characters (Rachel, Gillian, Inda). I like that by the end of the story, he no longer wants to be in the military.
FAV QUOTES
• Her vibrant beauty drew him more strongly with each hour he spent with her. Being with her was like being with Rachel in some ways. She pulled at that same feeling of innocence in him. He felt again as if he could be the young man he was as a youth, with hope in the world to come.
• A goal formed in his heart to win a real smile from her, not the one she gave to everyone else.
• When he looked at her, the warmth in his chest surprised him. He wanted to protect her. She felt like an anchor of innocence.
• Gillian was surprised that Max cared to share his opinions and ask for hers. He seemed to listen even if he wasn’t convinced. Her mother had always taught her that men would prefer if she didn’t offer her ideas, only listened to theirs.
• Gillian had climbed both of these [trees]. She had a spirit that he envied and that he had seen in no other woman.
• She was done playing the delicate female, not now, not ever again.
• Something had drawn Max to Gillian, something she hadn’t understood from the beginning. But she thought back to the words he had surprised her with, the other reason he had married her: that she was different from any woman he had ever known.
• He wanted to be there for her even more than his own glory. The realization surprised Max enough to distract him from the pounding in his head. He cared for Gillian, more than he’d thought.
• Her father and theirs, killed on opposite sides of the same old conflict.
• Gillian felt echoes of Max in [Venkat’s] words, with his unyielding sense of duty. Only, they fought on opposite sides, and more than ever, she wanted the people of Jundi to be the side that won, no matter what that meant for Ambrithians and their way of life in Jundi.
• She had thought that being in the White Tiger or even a place with Venkat was how she would achieve this union of purpose.
• “I shouldn’t have to choose between my duty and honor and loving you.”
• “I can’t say no. I’ve always followed orders.” He sank down on his heels, his head in his hands. Tears seeped through the cracks between his fingers…“what does that make me?” | She leaned down, shaky herself, and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. “It makes you an honest man.”
• “I know it’s not what you need, but a part of my wants to keep you away from the pain, safe somewhere else.” | She held tighter to him. “No, this is where I belong, what I’m meant to do. And maybe all the more so beside you.”
• “You would sacrifice so much?”| “Willingly for you, my dear.”
• And when she dug her fingers into the Jundi soil for the last time and touched them to hear heart, she knew that her home would come with her.
══════════ ⋆★⋆ ══════════
I received an advanced copy from LibraryThing’s April giveaway in exchange for an honest review and I’d like to thank Ella Walker Anderson and LibraryThing for the opportunity. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
“You are a part of Jundi, and Jundi is a part of you. It will always be. You have a place here, even when your purpose takes you beyond.”[ Contains some spoilers ]
PLOT SUMMARY
Miss Gillian Posenby is 23 years old, born and raised in a villa on the land of Jundi near the edge of the jungle. She has always been drawn to the jungle, and the tales she’s heard growing up about the White Tiger, its ruler with great powers – though believed to be a myth. Gillian has often dreamt of the tiger, and it is said if you do you are chosen to one day be permitted into the White Tiger Village, secretly hidden in the jungle.
Due to conflict between Ambrith the land where her family is from and Jundi from threats of a rebellion, Gillian and her widowed mother (Gilian’s father died in the military 4 years ago) are advised to leave Jundi. Gillian is most reluctant to leave, expected to settle down and marry in Ambrith, but Jundi is the only home she has ever known.
There is a great desire for her to marry family friend Captain Max Bexley, an excellent rifleman of the Ambrithian army. He is expected to wed before he is called away to Jundi, and is immediately captivated by Gillian when they meet. They come to the realisation that they can use each other for their own benefit: Max marrying into the family of the most respected fallen military hero would help him to excel in his already excellent military career, Gillian marrying Max would help her fulfil her desire to return to Jundi.
It is a quick marriage of the greatest convenience, though with each passing day any love they had slips away. Max, after all, is the enemy of the people Gillian has grown up with; and Gillian keeps trying to enter the jungle against Max’s wishes, and he grows suspicious of her actions wondering if she is a spy. But when Max gets captured by the White Tiger Villagers, Gillian must put aside their differences to save him. With an imminent war and inhumane orders from his superiors, Max is torn between duty and love.
This is told from the third-person past-tense POV of Gillian and Max.
OVERALL OPINIONS
When I heard this book is “Jane Austen meets The Jungle Book”, I was most intrigued because the combination is rather rare. Just as Gillian is drawn to the jungle so too was I drawn to this story. And what a tale it is! A beautiful combination of charm and compassion. Every page was eloquently described, and I can see why people would compare it to the likes of Jane Austen, especially during the first half of the book.
The book can be split into three parts: the first part is the introduction to Gilian, her family, the upcoming rebellion, then her journey to Ambrith and the meeting and marriage to Max; the second part is her return to Jundi, the conflicts in their marriage and Max’s disappearance; the third part is the White Tiger Village and the deescalating of the whole situation. I loved the first third where they go to Ambrith and Gillian and Max gets to know each other. Some of the story could be considered predictable (for example, where Venkat is after he disappears) but not fully (I did not expect who was behind this).
The title of the book being Jundi is the most fitting choice as this whole story is more about Jundi than any other thing: from its culture to its stories and its desire for peace. Jundi is all our protagonist Gillian has ever known and is drawn to, and it touches the hearts of all who are there, especially Max.
Interestingly, the prologue and epilogue are from the point of view of the White Tiger when he encounters Gillian as a child and adult respectively. I like that we also have a poem as an epigraph, The Tyger by William Blake. Again, very fitting as this compares the fierce nature of the human soul to a tiger in a jungle – which introduces the aspect of the White Tiger before even beginning the book.
Gillian and Max’s relationship is so complex and I love that it eventually goes from a marriage of convenience with ideal attraction to them working together and supporting each other’s beliefs. I like that they both have lost their fathers and looked up to them the most and bond over it. I also like the character development of them both: Gillian realises she does not have to be directly in Jundi to help them obtain their peace, and Max sees the error of his ways and the people of Jundi. The thing I love the most about Max is he always values Gillian’s opinions even from the first time they speak.
Overall, I really enjoyed this, there has not been anything like it in a while, and I am very interested in checking out her series “Of Wind and Lightning”. More strong female characters in a fantasy setting? Sign me up!
<< Positives >>
🠚Strong female character. I always love this when it is done and done well.
🠚Max’s character arc. This was the most interesting element.
🠚Supportive characters had a purposeful role to the story. Nagular is important within the Jundi community, his getting locked up is the thing that sets a lot of the events into motion. His son Venkat, of course, became a potential love interest. Characters like Max’s sister Rachel and the little girl Inda from the White Tiger Village.
🠚I liked that there were no real villains. The Ambrithians and the colonel could be considered the villains but ultimately everyone is misguided.
🠚I love the whole idea of the White Tiger and when we finally get to meet it. Reminded me of Aslan from Narnia.
🠚A perfect beguiling book cover. Random fact, but the model on the front is a model who supplies stock photos called faestock, and I was obsessed with her work when I was a teenager! I used to put her on the front cover of various fanfictions I used to write. The stock image they picked for the cover can be seen [here].
<< Negatives >>
🠚The relationship was more of a secondary element to the overall plot and I would have loved more moments and chemistry between Max and Gillian. This is a clean book which I accept and can understand if that is why the romance is not so prominent. I just feel it is a waste.
🠚I hated Venkat? Like, he is annoyed at Gillian for not coming to visit sooner, before she left Jundi the first time as if she was able to, and expecting them to start a relationship when she is already married and as if 8 years haven’t gone by since his disappearance? Reddest flag. Max is a whole green jungle.
🠚I feel there should have been an epilogue where we see how Gillian and Max are in Ambrith. I would have liked to have seen a conversation between Gillian and her mother when she returned.
CHARACTERS
-ˋˏ ꒰ Gillian꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ Gillian is a quiet, reserved, well-spoken woman like you would expect from such a time period – but she is not afraid to speak her mind, defy people and stand up for what she believes in. In this manner, she reminds me of Bathsheba Everdeen from Far From the Madding Crowd or Margaret Hale from North and South.
-ˋˏ ꒰ Max꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ Max has the most interesting character development, as mentioned above. Overall, I love his fierce loyalty to his wife and the way he wants to protect her. I like that he goes from concerning about how he is perceived by his men, particularly his wife having him look like a laughing stock for if he is “unable to control” her how will his men take him seriously, to showing his men how highly he respects her and waits for her directions at the end.
It is heartwarming how much he wants to do the right thing, though is torn if it is ever a military order. It is sweet that his loss of innocence is restored through many of the female characters (Rachel, Gillian, Inda). I like that by the end of the story, he no longer wants to be in the military.
FAV QUOTES
• Her vibrant beauty drew him more strongly with each hour he spent with her. Being with her was like being with Rachel in some ways. She pulled at that same feeling of innocence in him. He felt again as if he could be the young man he was as a youth, with hope in the world to come.
• A goal formed in his heart to win a real smile from her, not the one she gave to everyone else.
• When he looked at her, the warmth in his chest surprised him. He wanted to protect her. She felt like an anchor of innocence.
• Gillian was surprised that Max cared to share his opinions and ask for hers. He seemed to listen even if he wasn’t convinced. Her mother had always taught her that men would prefer if she didn’t offer her ideas, only listened to theirs.
• Gillian had climbed both of these [trees]. She had a spirit that he envied and that he had seen in no other woman.
• She was done playing the delicate female, not now, not ever again.
• Something had drawn Max to Gillian, something she hadn’t understood from the beginning. But she thought back to the words he had surprised her with, the other reason he had married her: that she was different from any woman he had ever known.
• He wanted to be there for her even more than his own glory. The realization surprised Max enough to distract him from the pounding in his head. He cared for Gillian, more than he’d thought.
• Her father and theirs, killed on opposite sides of the same old conflict.
• Gillian felt echoes of Max in [Venkat’s] words, with his unyielding sense of duty. Only, they fought on opposite sides, and more than ever, she wanted the people of Jundi to be the side that won, no matter what that meant for Ambrithians and their way of life in Jundi.
• She had thought that being in the White Tiger or even a place with Venkat was how she would achieve this union of purpose.
• “I shouldn’t have to choose between my duty and honor and loving you.”
• “I can’t say no. I’ve always followed orders.” He sank down on his heels, his head in his hands. Tears seeped through the cracks between his fingers…“what does that make me?” | She leaned down, shaky herself, and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. “It makes you an honest man.”
• “I know it’s not what you need, but a part of my wants to keep you away from the pain, safe somewhere else.” | She held tighter to him. “No, this is where I belong, what I’m meant to do. And maybe all the more so beside you.”
• “You would sacrifice so much?”| “Willingly for you, my dear.”
• And when she dug her fingers into the Jundi soil for the last time and touched them to hear heart, she knew that her home would come with her.
══════════ ⋆★⋆ ══════════
I received an advanced copy from LibraryThing’s April giveaway in exchange for an honest review and I’d like to thank Ella Walker Anderson and LibraryThing for the opportunity. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
January 8, 2024
Gillian is the daughter of a fallen military hero whose only home has been in her non-native land of Jundi. She may be Ambrith by blood but she has never set foot there and finds the idea of leaving the jungle unthinkable. But with the rebellion on the rise and the tension of the natives becoming palpable, she may not have a choice. Her mother forces her hand and they set sail back to ‘home’ to family and places she has only ever heard about with much protest along the way. Additionally, her mother is starting to pressure her into marriage now that she is considered way past due to settle down and hopes to introduce her to a family friend once they return to Ambrith.
Max has an impressive military career and only hopes to further improve it in the jungles of Jundi. Forced to wait to travel to his next assignment, he decides to go home and visit the family he hardly sees. While there, he hears that some old family friends are returning from Jundi and the daughter happens to still be unattached. After being heartbroken he stopped hoping for love in his marriage and looks for opportunity. The fact that Gillian is the daughter of a respected military hero appeals to his career goals and hopes that she may be open to courting. Upon meeting her, he is not only drawn to her for what her reputation can bring but her as a person. What starts out as being only an opportunity may be able to be more for him but he is hesitant to hope.
Gillian sees in Max a way to go back to her home. And once home, she realizes that she had been more sheltered than she would have liked about events going on around her, both current and from the past. Both Gillain and Max are forced to make choices as they desperately chase the peace they thought they wanted.
Set in a world similiar to ours but definitely not, we are treated to the jungles and magic of Jundi. Gillian struggles against Victorian-style society norms and is continuously underestimated and considered abnormal next to other Ambrithian girls. She longs to belong to Jundi but it is clear that she does not. Max lets his ambition come first and struggles to reconcile what his head and his heart truly want. These two ideals come into a conflict that will have consequences for whichever he chooses. Before the decision is made for him, he is given the opportunity to understand what he is truly fighting for. This is a story of two people making selfish decisions and discovering something bigger than themselves and finding comfort in each other as they put aside their differences. That what we think we want may not be right and the lessons along the way help create a stronger purpose. This story reminds me of one of my favorite books from my childhood, The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, but with more adult tones to it (clean romance but more mature in how the themes are handled). A world I look forward to coming back to whether it be through rereading or additional stories from this author.
Max has an impressive military career and only hopes to further improve it in the jungles of Jundi. Forced to wait to travel to his next assignment, he decides to go home and visit the family he hardly sees. While there, he hears that some old family friends are returning from Jundi and the daughter happens to still be unattached. After being heartbroken he stopped hoping for love in his marriage and looks for opportunity. The fact that Gillian is the daughter of a respected military hero appeals to his career goals and hopes that she may be open to courting. Upon meeting her, he is not only drawn to her for what her reputation can bring but her as a person. What starts out as being only an opportunity may be able to be more for him but he is hesitant to hope.
Gillian sees in Max a way to go back to her home. And once home, she realizes that she had been more sheltered than she would have liked about events going on around her, both current and from the past. Both Gillain and Max are forced to make choices as they desperately chase the peace they thought they wanted.
Set in a world similiar to ours but definitely not, we are treated to the jungles and magic of Jundi. Gillian struggles against Victorian-style society norms and is continuously underestimated and considered abnormal next to other Ambrithian girls. She longs to belong to Jundi but it is clear that she does not. Max lets his ambition come first and struggles to reconcile what his head and his heart truly want. These two ideals come into a conflict that will have consequences for whichever he chooses. Before the decision is made for him, he is given the opportunity to understand what he is truly fighting for. This is a story of two people making selfish decisions and discovering something bigger than themselves and finding comfort in each other as they put aside their differences. That what we think we want may not be right and the lessons along the way help create a stronger purpose. This story reminds me of one of my favorite books from my childhood, The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, but with more adult tones to it (clean romance but more mature in how the themes are handled). A world I look forward to coming back to whether it be through rereading or additional stories from this author.
July 25, 2024
Jundi was a really unique read with Jungle book vibes, mystery elements surrounding the narrative of the white tiger, political issues and a sort of marriage of convenience.
The book was well written and I was soon engaged in the story, wanting to read more of these jungle “fables” or fairy tales and to find out what was behind the mystical creature of the white tiger, what happened years before with Jillian’s childhood friends and see the romance between Jillian and Max progress.
The character growth of both characters was done well and they both understand that there are always different perspectives on a situation and that even if Jillian always stood by the Jundi people, never mistreated the servants, she still was regarded as one of the rich Ambrithians. So she definitely had a sort of “identity crisis”, because she didn’t really belong to either place, while Max had to learn the hard way that following commands can’t always be right.
The aspect that made this book a 4 rather than 5 star read is probably that the ending is a bit rushed. The romance but mostly the political situation is resolved too easily for my taste. It’s kind of the same with the white tiger. The explanation we got - if you can call it that - was a bit disappointing and I eventually wondered why it even was part of the story. There was probably just too much going on and I would have appreciated if there would have been a focus on one aspect of the story. Then I could have overlooked that the other aspects didn’t seem fleshed out enough. But we have a romance that didn’t completely convince me with a totally unnecessary kind of love triangle, problematic family dynamics and history that aren’t really resolved, a mystery that isn’t really one and political intrigue, injustice and a threat of a revolution that is stopped so immediately, I really wondered why there had to be so much bloodshed and how this could realistically work.
I still enjoyed this book a lot and think the premise is more than promising. The jungle setting is unique and very well done and I loved the different perspectives of the people of Jundi and Ambrith and that this isn’t portrayed as completely black and white. With focusing on either the mystery, the suspense and political part OR the romance, this could have been a solid five star read.
This was my first book by the author, but I am definitely intrigued and will try another one of her books soon.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read a copy of this book. I received the book via LibraryThing and leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
The book was well written and I was soon engaged in the story, wanting to read more of these jungle “fables” or fairy tales and to find out what was behind the mystical creature of the white tiger, what happened years before with Jillian’s childhood friends and see the romance between Jillian and Max progress.
The character growth of both characters was done well and they both understand that there are always different perspectives on a situation and that even if Jillian always stood by the Jundi people, never mistreated the servants, she still was regarded as one of the rich Ambrithians. So she definitely had a sort of “identity crisis”, because she didn’t really belong to either place, while Max had to learn the hard way that following commands can’t always be right.
The aspect that made this book a 4 rather than 5 star read is probably that the ending is a bit rushed. The romance but mostly the political situation is resolved too easily for my taste. It’s kind of the same with the white tiger. The explanation we got - if you can call it that - was a bit disappointing and I eventually wondered why it even was part of the story. There was probably just too much going on and I would have appreciated if there would have been a focus on one aspect of the story. Then I could have overlooked that the other aspects didn’t seem fleshed out enough. But we have a romance that didn’t completely convince me with a totally unnecessary kind of love triangle, problematic family dynamics and history that aren’t really resolved, a mystery that isn’t really one and political intrigue, injustice and a threat of a revolution that is stopped so immediately, I really wondered why there had to be so much bloodshed and how this could realistically work.
I still enjoyed this book a lot and think the premise is more than promising. The jungle setting is unique and very well done and I loved the different perspectives of the people of Jundi and Ambrith and that this isn’t portrayed as completely black and white. With focusing on either the mystery, the suspense and political part OR the romance, this could have been a solid five star read.
This was my first book by the author, but I am definitely intrigued and will try another one of her books soon.
* Thank you to the author for letting me read a copy of this book. I received the book via LibraryThing and leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
May 23, 2024
This book sometimes gave me some serious Jungle Book vibes but in an adult-clean romance way. We are immediately introduced to a headstrong Gillian who remains stuck in the divide between her heritage with the Ambrithian people and those of Jundi she has been raised around. The story quickly shows power imbalances between females and men and the colonization and subjugation of the Jundi people under the fort's command.
A mystical white tiger runs the jungle and visits Gillian in her dreams, and she is desperate to find out how she fits in with the country she's wanted to belong to for so long. But her mother ships her off to Ambrithian to be safe when the rebellion worsens. Gillian will do anything to get back to Jundi, including marrying Max, an ambitious military man who is all too happy to marry Gillian for the prestige of her late father's military history.
Max and Gillian are set in their ways and find themselves at opposite ends of the conflict in Jundi. Gillian is desperate to find her place within Jundi's people, even at the cost of staining Max's military career. Gillian continues to cut through social norms as she fights for what she believes in. Max wants to move up in rank quickly and avoids seeing Jundi through Gilian's eyes. Throughout the book, they must make choices as the rebellion and deaths increase, depending on where they stand, and figure out what matters most.
I enjoyed the character growth of both Max and Gillian as they learn to see things from each other's points of view. Including the dreams and mysticism of the white tiger and his people who rule the jungle was interesting and added an otherworldy element. The ending was good, although there is still much to be done, and it is relatively open to the reader's imagination on what happens. If you enjoy a period piece with forced proximity, marriage of convenience, slow burn, and small fantasy elements, this book is for you.
I didn't rate this book four stars because I felt, at times, there was still a lot of development between Gillian and Max that needed to happen, and the ending was really sudden. The buildup was good, so the ending seemed fast and left a lot unanswered. I would still recommend this book, as mentioned above; these are just a few things to note.
A mystical white tiger runs the jungle and visits Gillian in her dreams, and she is desperate to find out how she fits in with the country she's wanted to belong to for so long. But her mother ships her off to Ambrithian to be safe when the rebellion worsens. Gillian will do anything to get back to Jundi, including marrying Max, an ambitious military man who is all too happy to marry Gillian for the prestige of her late father's military history.
Max and Gillian are set in their ways and find themselves at opposite ends of the conflict in Jundi. Gillian is desperate to find her place within Jundi's people, even at the cost of staining Max's military career. Gillian continues to cut through social norms as she fights for what she believes in. Max wants to move up in rank quickly and avoids seeing Jundi through Gilian's eyes. Throughout the book, they must make choices as the rebellion and deaths increase, depending on where they stand, and figure out what matters most.
I enjoyed the character growth of both Max and Gillian as they learn to see things from each other's points of view. Including the dreams and mysticism of the white tiger and his people who rule the jungle was interesting and added an otherworldy element. The ending was good, although there is still much to be done, and it is relatively open to the reader's imagination on what happens. If you enjoy a period piece with forced proximity, marriage of convenience, slow burn, and small fantasy elements, this book is for you.
I didn't rate this book four stars because I felt, at times, there was still a lot of development between Gillian and Max that needed to happen, and the ending was really sudden. The buildup was good, so the ending seemed fast and left a lot unanswered. I would still recommend this book, as mentioned above; these are just a few things to note.
June 24, 2024
Jundi was an interesting take on colonization and influence in the world. I think that the book did a wonderful job showing how communication is an important tool in all relationships we hold, however I did think that the overall feel of the book was rather bland and vague.
Gillian the daughter of a dead warhero has lived her whole life in the jungles of Jundi. She wants nothing more than to be a part of the jungle. However tensions are rising between the people of Jundi and her home country leading to escalating violence. She is forced to leave the only home she knows when her mother flees back to the continent. Gillian has a plan though to return to her beloved Jundi. Marrying a rifleman who is close with her family she is able to return right away to the jungle. However her marriage suffers under the deception and expectations of herself and her husband, and life in the villa where she grew up has changed while she was away.
I found overall the narrative was engaging. When I began I believed that it would be just another white woman saves the natives kind of story. There is some of that, but I think that the emphasis put in that Gillian is not to speak for the jungle but to give them the voice to speak for themselves is nice. That said I did think that the overall writing of the book made the story feel rushed and vague. Things happen very quickly and while I enjoyed many scenes I feel like at times there wasn't a lot of payoff when issues were resolved. Especially the ending. For there to have been so much tension, distrust, and prejudice things resolved with barely any conflict. Also there was sometimes where I got a little sick of Gillian. She was constantly wondering what to do and needed someone to tell her or affirm her choices many times.
Overall I feel like the book wasn't bad, but it reminded me somewhat about a book for children which intends to introduce a social issue via a narrative and then show a neat resolution and moral. It's a pleasant quick read, but I don't think it will really stick in the mind.
Gillian the daughter of a dead warhero has lived her whole life in the jungles of Jundi. She wants nothing more than to be a part of the jungle. However tensions are rising between the people of Jundi and her home country leading to escalating violence. She is forced to leave the only home she knows when her mother flees back to the continent. Gillian has a plan though to return to her beloved Jundi. Marrying a rifleman who is close with her family she is able to return right away to the jungle. However her marriage suffers under the deception and expectations of herself and her husband, and life in the villa where she grew up has changed while she was away.
I found overall the narrative was engaging. When I began I believed that it would be just another white woman saves the natives kind of story. There is some of that, but I think that the emphasis put in that Gillian is not to speak for the jungle but to give them the voice to speak for themselves is nice. That said I did think that the overall writing of the book made the story feel rushed and vague. Things happen very quickly and while I enjoyed many scenes I feel like at times there wasn't a lot of payoff when issues were resolved. Especially the ending. For there to have been so much tension, distrust, and prejudice things resolved with barely any conflict. Also there was sometimes where I got a little sick of Gillian. She was constantly wondering what to do and needed someone to tell her or affirm her choices many times.
Overall I feel like the book wasn't bad, but it reminded me somewhat about a book for children which intends to introduce a social issue via a narrative and then show a neat resolution and moral. It's a pleasant quick read, but I don't think it will really stick in the mind.
March 5, 2024
This book really surprised me- in the best way possible. Ella Walker Henderson did a wonderful job creating an incredible story of love and character growth told from the viewpoints of our main characters Gillian and Max.
Gillian is the daugher of a military man who live in Jundi, a not-quite territory of Ambrith. Gillian wants nothing more than to live within the jungle that is ruled by the mysterious White Tiger. When circumstances change and Gillian is forced to leave Jundi to travel to Ambrith for the first time, she knows that the only way back to Jundi is through the one thing she's avoided- marriage.
This brings us to Max, a military man focused on advancing his career through any means necessary- including marriage to a woman with a military hero father. Max and Gillian enter into a marriage if convenience to achieve their individual goals and return to Jundi.
Once arriving in Jundi, threats of a rebellion cause Max and Gillian to open up to each other and realize that they may not be the people they once thought. The character development and introspection truly drive this story and allow the characters to grow both individually and as a couple.
I'm not sure what I expected when I decided to pick up this story, but I'm so glad I did. Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading a fictional take on territories, a gradual love story without spice, and anyone who just wants something a little different.
Gillian is the daugher of a military man who live in Jundi, a not-quite territory of Ambrith. Gillian wants nothing more than to live within the jungle that is ruled by the mysterious White Tiger. When circumstances change and Gillian is forced to leave Jundi to travel to Ambrith for the first time, she knows that the only way back to Jundi is through the one thing she's avoided- marriage.
This brings us to Max, a military man focused on advancing his career through any means necessary- including marriage to a woman with a military hero father. Max and Gillian enter into a marriage if convenience to achieve their individual goals and return to Jundi.
Once arriving in Jundi, threats of a rebellion cause Max and Gillian to open up to each other and realize that they may not be the people they once thought. The character development and introspection truly drive this story and allow the characters to grow both individually and as a couple.
I'm not sure what I expected when I decided to pick up this story, but I'm so glad I did. Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading a fictional take on territories, a gradual love story without spice, and anyone who just wants something a little different.
July 14, 2024
Jundi is a light fantasy book that seem like a retelling or at least inspired on The Jungle Book.
The story happens in a colonial time, and tells the story of Gillian and her love for Jundi (the land where she was born and lives).
As rebellion aproaches her mother makes her move away to the city and away from "her" Jungle. She tries to no avail to stay, and then tries a desperate measure: marry a soldier that is being sent to Jundi because of the rebellion so she can return to her beloved land.
Max is that soldier. He is part of the millitary and aspires to grow and wants to rank higher as he can. Marrying Gillian gives him a boost, mainly due to her father's history.
So they marry, and afterwards realize that they are supporting different sides in the war! How can Gillian connect to someone who is helping destroy what and who she loves? How can Max love someone who is jeopardising his career?
Can they find a way in between?
The world building is good and the writing can capture us and emerse us in the story. There is a little romance even though it is not the main part of the story, but it's there. The same goes with the fantasy part. It is mild, but always present.
As a romantic I kept rooting for them and kept hoping that they could put their differences away. The author made realistic and beliavable choices to bring them together. I really enjoyed it!
The story happens in a colonial time, and tells the story of Gillian and her love for Jundi (the land where she was born and lives).
As rebellion aproaches her mother makes her move away to the city and away from "her" Jungle. She tries to no avail to stay, and then tries a desperate measure: marry a soldier that is being sent to Jundi because of the rebellion so she can return to her beloved land.
Max is that soldier. He is part of the millitary and aspires to grow and wants to rank higher as he can. Marrying Gillian gives him a boost, mainly due to her father's history.
So they marry, and afterwards realize that they are supporting different sides in the war! How can Gillian connect to someone who is helping destroy what and who she loves? How can Max love someone who is jeopardising his career?
Can they find a way in between?
The world building is good and the writing can capture us and emerse us in the story. There is a little romance even though it is not the main part of the story, but it's there. The same goes with the fantasy part. It is mild, but always present.
As a romantic I kept rooting for them and kept hoping that they could put their differences away. The author made realistic and beliavable choices to bring them together. I really enjoyed it!
May 28, 2024
Jundi by Ella Walker Henderson is friends-to-enemies-to-lovers. Two people on opposite sides of a conflict, nearly strangers when they marry, must navigate their loyalties and hearts. Gillian desires to be reunited with the land she grew up in and loves. Max desires to further his military career. They quickly find themselves at cross purposes. Gillian is so wrapped up in protecting herself and the land she loves that she’s unfair toward her new husband, Max. He wants to understand her but he has a duty to his country. There are prejudices on both sides, an occupying military presence, Jundi rebels, and magical creatures in the heart of the jungle. I received an ARC and my review is voluntary.
Notable Quotes:
He showed the men behind them that he watched for her direction. Max portrayed a clear message: it was she who had won the Jundi trust, not him.
“You are not in isolation from your husband. He is your partner, too, though your sides are now opposite.”
She didn’t associate war and the jungle together.
Notable Quotes:
He showed the men behind them that he watched for her direction. Max portrayed a clear message: it was she who had won the Jundi trust, not him.
“You are not in isolation from your husband. He is your partner, too, though your sides are now opposite.”
She didn’t associate war and the jungle together.
June 11, 2024
Jundi is a regency romance intertwined with themes of colonialism, resistance, and individual responsibility. Gillian was raised in Jundi and feels a special connection to the land, so when worsening tensions force her to go to Ambrinth, she views marriage as a way to go back home. Max, on the other hand, is a soldier who sees Gillian's status as a an opportunity to advance his career.
The two grow closer, and their relationship is wholesome and well done, and the growth they both must go through as they grapple with the realities of their situation is nice to see. It's clear that Walker-Henderson has put a lot of thought into the characters' (and her) place in the conversation on colonialism and its impacts.
One of the overarching ideas here is the empowerment of disenfranchised voices -- creating a space for them, but not speaking for or over them. I appreciate this, though I wish there were more/more central characters from Jundi. I always end up wanting to see more of Walker-Henderson's minor characters than we actually get.
Overall, a fun, worthwhile read!
The two grow closer, and their relationship is wholesome and well done, and the growth they both must go through as they grapple with the realities of their situation is nice to see. It's clear that Walker-Henderson has put a lot of thought into the characters' (and her) place in the conversation on colonialism and its impacts.
One of the overarching ideas here is the empowerment of disenfranchised voices -- creating a space for them, but not speaking for or over them. I appreciate this, though I wish there were more/more central characters from Jundi. I always end up wanting to see more of Walker-Henderson's minor characters than we actually get.
Overall, a fun, worthwhile read!
February 20, 2024
Georgette Heyer meets the Jungle Book!
Regency Romance sometimes deals with serious subjects and issues. Jundi by Ella Walker Henderson addresses prejudice in colonialism and women's rights in a wonderful, engaging way. The author has done her usual highly inventive world building so that the reader feels comfortable with some things being very familiar, yet the surprises and imaginative creatures and peoples that come out of the jungle will keep you turning the pages to the wee hours of the morning.
I read this book in two days, in between much business and running around. I love the character of Jundi. She cares and she loves with discrimination. She expects much from her man and also is willing to give more than he knows to ask for. She thinks she is bargaining away her happiness and all along she is raising both of them to greater humanity.
Thank you, Ella Walker Henderson, for another brilliantly written, soulful, stretching story!
Regency Romance sometimes deals with serious subjects and issues. Jundi by Ella Walker Henderson addresses prejudice in colonialism and women's rights in a wonderful, engaging way. The author has done her usual highly inventive world building so that the reader feels comfortable with some things being very familiar, yet the surprises and imaginative creatures and peoples that come out of the jungle will keep you turning the pages to the wee hours of the morning.
I read this book in two days, in between much business and running around. I love the character of Jundi. She cares and she loves with discrimination. She expects much from her man and also is willing to give more than he knows to ask for. She thinks she is bargaining away her happiness and all along she is raising both of them to greater humanity.
Thank you, Ella Walker Henderson, for another brilliantly written, soulful, stretching story!
May 15, 2024
Jundi was a truly entertaining read. A subtle fantasy book, this story explores colonialism and the exploitation and subjugation of the jungle people of Jundi. Woven throughout is a love story, and a story of a strong willed young woman who will do what it takes to obtain her wishes.
The world building done by Henderson really submerges you into the colonial era, and the jungle the military is trying to wrest from the natives. The character development is also very well done. You see Max’s growth in his beliefs, as well as Gillian’s growth when she realizes that loving Max is not such a bad thing if she can convince him to see her point of views.
The fantasy is very light in this book, but there is a touch of it. The book is just very realistic, and very enjoyable. Highly recommend for anyone who wants an easy, satisfying read that also deals with a few heavy issues.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The world building done by Henderson really submerges you into the colonial era, and the jungle the military is trying to wrest from the natives. The character development is also very well done. You see Max’s growth in his beliefs, as well as Gillian’s growth when she realizes that loving Max is not such a bad thing if she can convince him to see her point of views.
The fantasy is very light in this book, but there is a touch of it. The book is just very realistic, and very enjoyable. Highly recommend for anyone who wants an easy, satisfying read that also deals with a few heavy issues.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 28, 2024
My utmost gratitude to the author and LibraryThing for this e-ARC!
Firstly, I was starting to have a reading slump and couldn't get on with a sci-fi in hand. Then this novel came, just in time, as time and again has proven that a historical romance is always able to boost my reading mojo!
The overall premise reminds me of a strong-willed female version of Tarzan with Alice in Wonderland vibe but with Miss Marvel and her mom in mind LOL! Don't get me wrong... it is the way they communicated sure reminds me of them LOL!
I've enjoyed the story from the start to the end and liked that this historical romance is a little different from the usual suspects. As such, it sure felt like a breath of fresh air! More context and less sex! The journey from the moment Gillian and Max meet to their rushed wedding and the eventual understanding of each other, falling in love and all... it was such a lovely happy ever after!
Now, back to that half read sci-fi!!!
Firstly, I was starting to have a reading slump and couldn't get on with a sci-fi in hand. Then this novel came, just in time, as time and again has proven that a historical romance is always able to boost my reading mojo!
The overall premise reminds me of a strong-willed female version of Tarzan with Alice in Wonderland vibe but with Miss Marvel and her mom in mind LOL! Don't get me wrong... it is the way they communicated sure reminds me of them LOL!
I've enjoyed the story from the start to the end and liked that this historical romance is a little different from the usual suspects. As such, it sure felt like a breath of fresh air! More context and less sex! The journey from the moment Gillian and Max meet to their rushed wedding and the eventual understanding of each other, falling in love and all... it was such a lovely happy ever after!
Now, back to that half read sci-fi!!!
May 30, 2024
When I chose this, I think it was the cover and description that appealed to me. In particular, I liked the idea of a fantasy romance in a jungle setting, and I felt the author brought that setting to life with lots of charming imagery.
I found that I was actually interested in the fantasy and adventure elements of the story more than the romance, at least to begin with. In particular, I was keen to know more about the mysterious White Tiger legend.
As the story progressed, I warmed more to the romantic element of it. I didn't feel it dominated the story too much. It was just a pleasant addition to an already charming story, and this was lovely to read.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found that I was actually interested in the fantasy and adventure elements of the story more than the romance, at least to begin with. In particular, I was keen to know more about the mysterious White Tiger legend.
As the story progressed, I warmed more to the romantic element of it. I didn't feel it dominated the story too much. It was just a pleasant addition to an already charming story, and this was lovely to read.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 15, 2025
Are you in the mood for a regency romance or a jungle journey? Well, why not both?🤓
I appreciate receiving an early copy to this fun read! It started off great, got a little slow back in Jundi, then picked up quickly for the rest of the book, keeping me hooked!
The conflict of the rebellion pulls Gillian and Max in different directions, and it hurt to see the hurt they caused each other! It was fun to read about the role switch when a certain character disappeared on a mission: the protector becomes the protected. The White Tiger being the leader of the jungle, and his protective nature, was really interesting, especially since lions are usually considered the jungle leader. (There’s no magic in this but the White Tiger). I enjoyed reading about the Jundi people, especially as Gillian learns about them. I hope this isn’t the last Gillian sees of them!
I appreciate receiving an early copy to this fun read! It started off great, got a little slow back in Jundi, then picked up quickly for the rest of the book, keeping me hooked!
The conflict of the rebellion pulls Gillian and Max in different directions, and it hurt to see the hurt they caused each other! It was fun to read about the role switch when a certain character disappeared on a mission: the protector becomes the protected. The White Tiger being the leader of the jungle, and his protective nature, was really interesting, especially since lions are usually considered the jungle leader. (There’s no magic in this but the White Tiger). I enjoyed reading about the Jundi people, especially as Gillian learns about them. I hope this isn’t the last Gillian sees of them!
May 29, 2024
Great social justice awareness!
One of the many problems with colonization is being torn between two cultures. While marrying into a culture different from one’s own has its own set of challenges, at least the parties are making that decision themselves and as adults. But children born on foreign soil are not given the choice of how much or how little of each culture to absorb. Part of both worlds yet belonging to neither is no way to grow up. And in cases like our heroine, allegiances are constantly questioned.
Life lessons:
Massacres are not victories.
Choose a side and take a stand, not excuses.
Instilling fear in others is a form of cowardice.
As usual, looking forward to more by this author!
One of the many problems with colonization is being torn between two cultures. While marrying into a culture different from one’s own has its own set of challenges, at least the parties are making that decision themselves and as adults. But children born on foreign soil are not given the choice of how much or how little of each culture to absorb. Part of both worlds yet belonging to neither is no way to grow up. And in cases like our heroine, allegiances are constantly questioned.
Life lessons:
Massacres are not victories.
Choose a side and take a stand, not excuses.
Instilling fear in others is a form of cowardice.
As usual, looking forward to more by this author!
June 3, 2024
OK, gonna be honest, almost DNF this in the first couple of chapters because of how annoying I found the female protag Gillian. Luckily, the side characters (her mother!) and male protag drew me in, because this was a surprising and interesting reluctant romance.
1) It was very fast paced, and focused more on Gillian's desire to be a bridge (not a voice) for the Jundi people.
2) Very little magic, closer to a magical realism.
3) Very obvious analogs to British Imperialism. A bit of a wish fulfillment book, but I felt that the author was coming from a place of respect. (With the disclaimer that I am a non-BIPOC person, and so, to use the words of the book, I am not a voice for that community. : )
1) It was very fast paced, and focused more on Gillian's desire to be a bridge (not a voice) for the Jundi people.
2) Very little magic, closer to a magical realism.
3) Very obvious analogs to British Imperialism. A bit of a wish fulfillment book, but I felt that the author was coming from a place of respect. (With the disclaimer that I am a non-BIPOC person, and so, to use the words of the book, I am not a voice for that community. : )
June 1, 2024
4.5*
This was a pleasure to read - the writing style was natural, flowing and practically read itself (and no I wasn't using text-to-speech you cheeky monkey!)
I don't know if I agree that this is Jane Austen meets The Jungle Book, but it was definitely *something* meets The Jungle Book. Gillian shared some characteristics with Elizabeth Bennet; it had some themes that are Austenesque, but not so much in style (that is no dis on this book at all). By style that I mean that the writing here seems more personal, warmer and of course delves into territory that Austen didn't.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a pleasure to read - the writing style was natural, flowing and practically read itself (and no I wasn't using text-to-speech you cheeky monkey!)
I don't know if I agree that this is Jane Austen meets The Jungle Book, but it was definitely *something* meets The Jungle Book. Gillian shared some characteristics with Elizabeth Bennet; it had some themes that are Austenesque, but not so much in style (that is no dis on this book at all). By style that I mean that the writing here seems more personal, warmer and of course delves into territory that Austen didn't.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2023
In true Ella Walker Henderson form, this novel has such a fleshed out world it makes you feel like these countries and people really exist. I really enjoyed the way this book showed how conflict and war is never a simple, uncomplicated issue. The blend of spirituality/mythical elements woven into the plot gave it an extra flare of mystery, and helped send a good message by the end. The slow burn romance and character arc of the main characters complimented and often mirrored the world around them. If you're looking for a quick but intriguing read, this standalone is the right pick for you.
December 18, 2023
Jundi by Ella Walker Henderson is the story of Gillian who has always lived on the edge of the jungle and who must get married in order stay there. But war is on the horizon.
The writing style in this book was such that you could see the world before your eyes. The story was flowing and easy to read. Gillian and Max are two lovely characters and their slow burn romance was nice to read about. I loved how the author mixed some mythical elements into the story, and there is also some mystery.
All in all, a lovely book to read in a couple hours.
The writing style in this book was such that you could see the world before your eyes. The story was flowing and easy to read. Gillian and Max are two lovely characters and their slow burn romance was nice to read about. I loved how the author mixed some mythical elements into the story, and there is also some mystery.
All in all, a lovely book to read in a couple hours.
June 7, 2024
Jundi is a story that will transport you to another world, one where the jungle is more than it seems. I was intrigued from the moment I heard about this book, especially with the idea that Pride & Prejudice meets Jungle Book. The story did remind me of Pride & Predjudice a bit. The way the author writes reminds me of that time period, and I enjoyed it very much.
The ending was a little abrupt for me. I would have liked to see something just a little more, but that could just be me. Overall, it was a great story and very enjoyable!
The ending was a little abrupt for me. I would have liked to see something just a little more, but that could just be me. Overall, it was a great story and very enjoyable!
June 3, 2024
An epic adventure story
Ella Walker Henderson has done it again. This standalone story is in a world a bit like ours and not quite. It's a bit like Jane Austen's world landed in the Jungle Book. Gillian and Max go on an adventure deep into the Jungle and into their hearts to save a way of life in danger of being wiped out by military force. I don't want to give spoilers so I will stop but enough to say this novel is excellent.
Ella Walker Henderson has done it again. This standalone story is in a world a bit like ours and not quite. It's a bit like Jane Austen's world landed in the Jungle Book. Gillian and Max go on an adventure deep into the Jungle and into their hearts to save a way of life in danger of being wiped out by military force. I don't want to give spoilers so I will stop but enough to say this novel is excellent.
June 6, 2024
I really enjoyed the book. But I did feel sometimes there could have been more done with the plot. I do like that it is open for a sequel in that regard
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2024
It is not typical to see a romance take place in the jungle but this one does. I really enjoyed it and the characters had a lovely romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2024
It started out really well. Enjoyable, easy read. I felt like the agreement was achieved to easily and quickly. I like that the main characters recognized that there would still be more work to do.
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