A Shortcut to Africa
by Jalna J. Broughton
You must sign in to see if this title is available for request. Sign In or Register Now
Send NetGalley books directly to your Kindle or Kindle app
1
To read on a Kindle or Kindle app, please add kindle@netgalley.com as an approved email address to receive files in your Amazon account. Click here for step-by-step instructions.
2
Also find your Kindle email address within your Amazon account, and enter it here.
Pub Date Feb 28 2026 | Archive Date Apr 15 2026
Talking about this book? Use #AShortcuttoAfrica #NetGalley. More hashtag tips!
Description
Orphaned Sally Ann lives in the Msawi Nature Reserve with her grandfather, happy, settled and on the verge of adulthood. The unexpected arrival of Willem Van Cleef however starts a chain of events that no one could have foreseen.
Willem is bewitched by Sally Ann’s youthful beauty, but she immediately dislikes him. Jealous of her close relationship with Blondi, her grandfather’s deputy, Willem struggles to forge the relationship with her that he so desires.
Meanwhile Blondi, aware of Willem’s interest, realises his platonic love for Sally Ann has grown into something much deeper. He is desperate not to lose her to another man.
Set in the fictitious Msawi Nature Reserve, the story explores its rich wildlife and the stunning archaeological find at Lizard Rock as well as the unique customs and deep spirituality of the gentle Msawi tribe. When the youngsters have the chance to take part in one of their ancient ceremonies however, they find that they have a much greater role to play than they could have expected as their personalities are tested in the build up to the finale.
A Note From the Publisher
Available Editions
| EDITION | Ebook |
| ISBN | 9781806344536 |
| PRICE | £4.99 (GBP) |
| PAGES | 320 |
Available on NetGalley
Average rating from 3 members
Featured Reviews
Librarian 1775997
A Shortcut to Africa by Jalna J. Broughton is an engaging and immersive read that captures the spirit of travel, curiosity, and personal discovery. Broughton brings the journey to life with vivid descriptions and thoughtful reflections, making it easy to feel transported alongside her. The blend of adventure and introspection adds depth, turning what could have been just a travel narrative into something more meaningful.
What stands out most is the author’s ability to highlight both the beauty and complexity of the places and experiences she encounters. There’s an authenticity in the storytelling that makes the book feel genuine and grounded.
At times, the pacing can slow in sections that focus heavily on detail, but overall it adds to the richness of the experience rather than detracting from it.
A compelling read for anyone who enjoys travel writing with heart, insight, and a strong sense of place.
Jalna J. Broughton does a fantastic job in writing a really well done young adult romance novel, it had that feel that I was looking for and was invested in what was happening in this universe. The characters were wonderfully written and worked with the storyline being told. I was invested in what was happening and glad I got to read this.
I really really loved this setting! What a wonderful safari trip this was!
I enjoyed meeting the characters.
I finished this delightful book around 4am. Im still thinking about it.
All the different animals described I could see in my mind. I loved seeing all of them.
I was sad when this story ended.
Sally Ann was wonderful! I loved her spirit and integrity to learn from her grandfather about the preserve they were living on.
5 stars for a job well done.
The writing was fantastic!
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
Readers who liked this book also liked:
Yishay Ishi Ron
Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery & Thrillers