As the village of Rainy Bay works out the kinks in their first Indigenous Food Days, Winnow works out the kinks in her love life. Hired to forage and cook for the festival, Winnow arrives in the rural Minnesota community to find her host Niigaanii, is as annoyingly attractive as he is unwelcoming. Can Winnow and Niigaanii pull thorns from the past and harvest the love they find in a berry patch?
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: The plot is based on a romance that has a rocky start, but Hart draws readers in with a bit of mystery and appealing characters. Fans will be invested in the main couple's outcome.
Prose: Hart uses unique and original language patterns of the area and culture, adding to the novel's setting and tone while allowing readers to experience more than just the central romance; this story will create lasting imagery while appealing to the senses.
Originality: Authentic language and Hart's conscientious writing style make this a unique book that provides readers with a rich sensory experience.
Character/Execution: Hart's strong but charming characters are delightful, not only in their quest for romance but also in their determination to overcome challenging circumstances—and to take chances when it counts.
Date Submitted: August 28, 2023
"Native Love Jams is a joyful, sexy, lush-language, fabulous read! Hart's characters burst from the page in all their quirky, endearing aliveness, and her stunning descriptions of territory and delectable food will make you hungry for more. Treat yourself to this celebration of Indigenous love!" --Mona Susan Power, author of A Council of Dolls