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A review by oceanwriter
The Matchmaker by Aisha Saeed
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.75
Though single herself, Nura Khan has been a successful matchmaker and is running the family business. That is until one dissatisfied customer starts seeking revenge. Nura’s life is in danger as well as her family’s and friends’. The mystery.
Nura has been secretly in love with Azar, though he’s not expressed interest in her after years of friendship. These feelings are not helped when Azar masquerades as her fiancé for the sake of the business. The romance.
I enjoyed the voice of the narration as well as being immersed into a culture I’m only moderately familiar with. As for the overall plot lines, I feel it was too crowded. There was a lot going on and I felt pretty ‘meh’ about it all. I wouldn’t personally categorize this as a full-on thriller. I think I might have enjoyed it more if there was a more solid central focus: mystery or romance. I typically enjoy the pairing, but it felt loud here from both sides. That said, I’m sure there are some people who will love this combination.
Thanks to Ballentine and NetGalley for providing a free digital ARC of the book.
Graphic: Kidnapping, Stalking, and Car accident
Moderate: Death, Domestic abuse, and Drug use
Minor: Dementia, Death of parent, and Cultural appropriation