New Pangaea- An Evolution into the Fifth World, by Brenda Duffey, is a  story of a woman trying to find herself and a restless man ready to settle down. Who is Mehrrani Bijan? After her father’s death, because of their faith, Rani and her mother fled Iran to New Mexico. The haunting memories of her father’s loss had instilled a deep fear of loving and losing in Rani. Distancing herself from relationships other than with her mother, Rani decided it was time to find her independence and much-needed answers about her dad’s death and a stone he left her from Iran that connected the answers she sought to FBI agent Josh Overton’s case.

After being sent to Arizona for a murder investigation, Josh had coincidently run into Rani several times. However, this case and the stunning, philosophical woman he couldn’t stop thinking about began to make him question whether he still loved the chase and his job or if he wanted something more.

Overall I really enjoyed this book. I loved the cultural aspects, the characters were each remarkably original, and the setting was well-written. I love the depth of Rani’s character and how her upbringing helped shape her personality. Rani’s deep connection and admiration for the reservation’s Navajo people are touching and add depth to her story. Her friendship with Listie is very well written, it really shows how friendship can be formed in the most unexpected circumstances, and sometimes a random stranger can become someone important to you.

Rani’s inner turmoil to find herself and overcome the grief from her father’s loss and her struggle to let people into her life because she is so afraid of losing them really built on how you should appreciate the people in your life for as long as you have them because you never know what will happen. The relationship between Josh and Rani is unconventional, and it seems like they skipped a few steps in the love department. However, the romance is sweet and cute, and Josh and Rani are well-developed characters. The novel is overall well written and has a beautiful, engaging story.

New Pangaea- An Evolution into the Fifth World is a suspenseful thriller that follows the mystery of ancient stone tablets that are brought out of Iran during the revolution. Readers will enjoy following Rani on her journey of self-discovery and faith and solving the mystery of her father’s past.

Pages: 192 | ASIN : B07964LTQL

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2022/12/05/new-pangaea/