Book Review: From Nowhere (Wildfire, #2) by Jewel E. Ann
When I first dove into From Nowhere, the second installment in Jewel E. Ann’s Wildfire series, I was enthusiastic, riding high off the emotional whirlwind that was From Air. Jewel has a knack for portraying deep, multifaceted relationships, and I was eager to see how she would craft another heartwarming narrative. However, I must admit, while I had a good time with this story, it didn’t quite hit me in the feels the same way its predecessor did.
The story follows Maren as she navigates her budding romance with Ozzy, a widower whose life, along with that of his daughter Lola, takes a transformative turn with her arrival. The connection between Maren and Ozzy is the heart of the story, but the way it unfolds was a mixed bag for me. Their first meeting was refreshing and creatively executed, yet I found myself yearning for a deeper emotional connection between them. Their chemistry was palpable and punctuated by adorable moments—flowers, sweet notes, and playful banter—but I felt something was missing.
One aspect that made me a bit uncomfortable was the relationship dynamics with Ozzy’s daughter, Lola. While she had her moments of adorable childhood behavior—arguing about shower times, adoring sweet treats, and expressing curiosity about her father’s dating life—some of her lines seemed more suited for a teenager. For instance, her acceptance of Dad’s intimacy felt a bit off for a ten-year-old, leading to awkward moments in the dialogue that pulled me from the story. It would have been more fitting for her to support his dating life rather than discuss his romantic escapades.
Yet, despite my reservations, Lola blossomed as a character, and her bond with Maren was heartwarming. It was clear that she was missing that motherly connection, and her joy around Maren was evident. Their evolving family dynamic, along with Ozzy’s heartwarming journey of fatherhood, were highlights that resonated with me.
The subplot surrounding Tia, Ozzy’s previous partner, added layers of conflict but was also a point of contention for me. While I understand her perspective, her treatment of both Ozzy and Maren throughout the book left much to be desired. It took a serious event for her to finally come around, which felt like a slightly predictable trajectory.
One of my favorite moments, however, was a poignant scene near the end where progress was made by a character in such a beautiful way that it made me tear up. Jewel excels at crafting these tender, powerful moments, showcasing how trauma can shape, but also liberate us. In my opinion, those scenes are where her writing shines brightest, drawing her readers into the emotional core of her characters.
Overall, I enjoyed From Nowhere, and while it didn’t leave me breathless like From Air, it still provided a satisfying glimpse into the lives of its characters. If you relish heartwarming tales of love, family, and personal growth, you will likely find a lot to appreciate here. I’m eagerly looking forward to Will’s story next, especially after that intriguing little tease at the end!
In summary, this book offers a charming mix of sweet moments and familial connections, making it a delightful read for anyone who enjoys heartfelt contemporary romance.
Thank you to Jewel E. Ann, the publishers, and Valentine PR for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Discover more about From Nowhere (Wildfire, #2) on GoodReads >>
