A middle-aged Canadian woman finds adventure and love in Cuba in Dusel’s novel of spies, sundresses, and second chances.
Recently divorced 50-something Jane Brown is having an existential crisis. She worries that she’s too boring and timid, and that life is passing her by. Jane’s travel agent friend tries to lift her spirits by sending her on a trip to Cuba. At first, the trip does the trick, and Jane enjoys swimming and reading at her resort. She soon catches the attention of two men: Wilkes, a dapper Southern gentleman, and Dan, a young widower with three children. Her trip gets a little too exciting, however, after someone breaks into her room and ransacks her belongings. Jane soon realizes that she’s being followed and notices clues that indicate that she may be involved in some sort of intrigue. Using her quick wit and a giant leather tote full of useful supplies, Jane starts to unravel the mystery of who’s pursuing her and what they really want. Along the way, she discovers untapped reserves of perception, quick-wittedness, and bravery. Whether she’s speeding through muddy streets in a scooter or running from shady men through the streets of Havana, she finds that she’s braver and more spontaneous than she thought, and she begins to rethink what her future could look like. Overall, Jane is a protagonist who’s easy to root for, but who never comes across as cloyingly sweet; she also looks back on her past with introspection but little self-pity. Dusel’s mystery plot is pleasingly suspenseful—not too simple, but not too convoluted or violent. Jane’s character development is believable and satisfying as her instincts sharpen in believable ways, and it’s easy to see how she builds up her confidence to handle even the most dangerous situations. Her overfull purse is a nice detail; she cleverly uses it to get herself out of sticky situations. Elements of Cuban culture, and a side plot involving Jane and Dan’s children, provide welcome, if slight, additions to the narrative.
A fun and frothy beach read, full of suspense and self-discovery.
I highly recommend this fun and engaging book! While on her first solo holiday after her recent divorce, Jane encounters mystery, danger, and an interesting cast of characters at her resort in Cuba. Her ex-husband always underestimated her, but Jane proves to be more than capable. She finds her way out of a dangerous situation by relying on her wits, whatever she has in her large purse, and knowledge gained from reading novels. I would like to read more of Jane’s adventures!
- Amazon 5 Star Review
Perfect for a holiday. Plain Jane Brown follows a woman who is finding herself after divorce. This book is funny and light-hearted but also has plenty of little mysteries and suspense to keep you turning the page until you finish it! Recommend!
- Goodreads 5 Star Review