Make a Wish, Anna

Juliana Chan’s Make a Wish, Anna is a compelling exploration of ambition, love, and self-identity set against the backdrop of the high-pressure world of Hollywood. The narrative follows Anna, an unassuming makeup artist entangled in a tumultuous relationship with Chris Steward, a rising movie star. The novel opens with a poignant moment at Anna's birthday celebration, where she hesitates over her wish, foreshadowing her internal struggles throughout the story. Anna gave up on her wishes after losing her parents. When handsome movie star Chris becomes her client, she never anticipates his romantic interest. As their connection deepens, she longs for the love and security she’s missed. Yet, mistrust leads to tough choices. Can Anna learn that true wishes often unfold in unexpected ways? 

The plot intricately weaves the threads that hold Anna’s life together, balancing her professional aspirations with her emotionally charged relationship with Chris. As the story progresses, we see the highs of their romance, depicted through charming interactions and moments of tenderness, juxtaposed with the lows of jealousy, secrecy, and misunderstanding. The introduction of characters like Derek, a charming director with a romantic interest in Anna, augments the depth of the plot and creates an additional level of intrigue and the friction that forces her to confront her insecurities and choices. Juliana Chan’s characters are sophisticated yet deeply flawed. Anna is broken in many ways and is portrayed as a relatable figure struggling with inadequacy in a glamorous industry. Her reflections on her past – marked by the tragic loss of her parents – deepen her character, showcasing the emotional scars that haunt her decisions and interactions. In contrast, while charismatic and talented, Chris presents a façade of confidence that gradually reveals his brokenness, especially concerning his past relationships and public persona. 

The setting of Hollywood presents both a backdrop of glamour and the challenging facts about fame and success in the entertainment industry. The interiors of lavish studios, glamorous red-carpet events, and the vibrant life of Los Angeles capture the allure of the entertainment industry. However, it also exposes the darker side of celebrity life – the pressures and expectations that strain personal relationships. The conflict in Make a Wish, Anna is nuanced and cleverly developed. Anna struggles with professional challenges while navigating the complications of a hidden romance, leading to moments of intense self-doubt and introspection that resonate deeply with readers. While the characters are unforgettable, you’ll fall in love with Chan’s exquisite and delectable prose in this story about love, struggle, and what it means to be real in the world.