I really enjoyed this novel about a young couple trying not to fall in love. Dimple is driven and single minded, and Rishi is a hopeless romantic, so that’s a bit of a gender flip. The story was very sweet and enjoyable to read. 

I liked the (sometimes conflicting) themes of being true to oneself, and honouring one’s parents and culture, and I thought this book did a good job of examining the tension between these two ideals. I was particularly touched by the scene where Rishi denies his true self among kindred spirits in order to be who his parents want him to be; the soul-crushing sadness of that moment was very gently but effectively portrayed. I also loved how Dimple’s adventure caused her to grow closer to her parents, and appreciate them more. 

I was encouraged to read this book by a great episode of the Hazel, Harry, Katniss and Starr Young Adult Fiction podcast.