Hani and Ishu's Guide to Fake Dating

I don't have many authors whose books I would grab just on the strength of their name without at least checking out the synopsis, but on the strength of The Henna Wars and now Hani and Ishu's Guide to Fake Dating I am delighted to add Adiba Jaigirdar's name to that very short list. I absolutely loved spending time with Hani, Ishu, their families and friends, and was completely enthralled by this novel from start to finish. I admit that, as a young adult romance, it doesn't tick any of my usual genre boxes, but Jaigirdar has such a talent for incorporating deep themes into ostensibly light stories without either dragging down the tone and pace of her work or doing any disservice to the issues her characters must navigate.

Hani and Ishu's Guide to Fake Dating includes probably the best depiction of a toxic friendship that I have ever read. It also delves into homophobia, Islamophobia, and dysfunctional intergenerational relationships, all while telling an adorably romantic tale of first love. Jaigirdar also deftly shows readers Bengali culture and Dublin culture, especially their intersections. I came away from this book feeling as though I learned a lot, yet didn't recall any moments of feeling I was being taught! Over everything though I fell in love with Hani and Ishu's relationship even before they could see for themselves where their hearts were taking them. A charming, thought-provoking romance novel with all the feels!