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ladyinverse's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
this was such a cute story aaaaa. i definitely prefer Dos and Donuts of Love vs this, but this had such a charming and adorable story.
I desperately cannot stand the two friends of Hani's which I know was the point lol
I desperately cannot stand the two friends of Hani's which I know was the point lol
melodys_library's review against another edition
4.0
First and foremost: I loved that this book was so unapologetically Bengali.
At first, I was pretty upset when the white girl at school wasn’t punished for framing Ishu for cheating and there was no justice for Ishu. She and the white girl were treated differently by the principal when each was thought to be lying. But then the more I thought about it, the closer this is to the unfortunate reality for brown girls - subject to white tears of manipulation and viewed as the antagonists when we try to stand up for ourselves. But the overall message is still clear: Stand up for yourself and call out injustices. I also was upset that Nik’s parents did not go to her Mehndi night and the book ended implying that they would not attend her wedding. But then again, that is the cultural reality. I was just hoping for a happy ending, and that wasn’t the point of this book at all.
At first, I was pretty upset when the white girl at school wasn’t punished for framing Ishu for cheating and there was no justice for Ishu. She and the white girl were treated differently by the principal when each was thought to be lying. But then the more I thought about it, the closer this is to the unfortunate reality for brown girls - subject to white tears of manipulation and viewed as the antagonists when we try to stand up for ourselves. But the overall message is still clear: Stand up for yourself and call out injustices. I also was upset that Nik’s parents did not go to her Mehndi night and the book ended implying that they would not attend her wedding. But then again, that is the cultural reality. I was just hoping for a happy ending, and that wasn’t the point of this book at all.
blackberryreads's review against another edition
4.0
This got me out of a reading slump!! Such a real and important book, surprisingly realistic for a fake dating story. The writing style was immaculate, plus everyone knows I’m a sucker for enemies to lovers. Both characters were flawed yet likable, especially Ishu. Idk if I want to be her or date her
ahhnomzilla's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
ganiara's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
this is one of the books that has the same effect as a warm hug: comforting and familiar
humphrey_hedgy's review against another edition
5.0
Its a beautiful story, showcases real people with real depth.
I feel really seen by this story, as an Asian immigrant in the UK who identifies as a bi woman, I feel less alone in my struggles. But at the same time, very sad. Sad that this is unfortunately true for many.
I really appreciated that there isnt a neat little bow to wrap everything up. It makes it real. Because it is impossible to expect people like Aisling to sudden turn out to be understanding.
I feel really seen by this story, as an Asian immigrant in the UK who identifies as a bi woman, I feel less alone in my struggles. But at the same time, very sad. Sad that this is unfortunately true for many.
I really appreciated that there isnt a neat little bow to wrap everything up. It makes it real. Because it is impossible to expect people like Aisling to sudden turn out to be understanding.
bnwolgamot's review against another edition
4.75
I loved the development of Hani and Ishu’s relationship, and I also loved the evolution of their relationships with their families, and the consequent devolution of the friendship with Aisling and Dee (who can SUCK IT)
huntea's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
rosatulipan's review against another edition
3.0
3.5!
This is the first book I've read in almost one sitting for a while now, and it was really sweet and necessary.
This is the first book I've read in almost one sitting for a while now, and it was really sweet and necessary.
lindseyam's review against another edition
3.0
★★★ ½
a cute sapphic romance with good bit of typical romance tropes.. which is exactly what i wanted so!! not many complaints on that front besides i wish their first kiss felt more romantic/well written instead of feeling so forced and focused on making this ‘romcom’ type moment
anyways! i <3 heart ishu so bad.. like that’s my new fictional gf guys
a cute sapphic romance with good bit of typical romance tropes.. which is exactly what i wanted so!! not many complaints on that front besides i wish their first kiss felt more romantic/well written instead of feeling so forced and focused on making this ‘romcom’ type moment
anyways! i <3 heart ishu so bad.. like that’s my new fictional gf guys