This review is based on an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This review may contain spoilers

This was such a heartwarming and cozy romance, perfectly blended with just the right amount of magical realism to make it a fun and whimsical read! I especially loved how the book celebrated a culture different from my own, featuring diverse characters that brought new perspectives. It was fascinating to explore foods and references I hadn’t encountered before, and I enjoyed doing some research to learn more.

The story touched on a variety of themes including falling in love, self-care, and perseverance. It was truly inspiring and a reminder to always strive for better and never give up. The romance between Ziya and Aashiq was so beautifully written—capturing the giddiness of falling in love, the tension, the sweetness, and the challenges and decisions they faced together.

Beyond the love story, we also got to experience Aashiq’s amusing journey of adapting to the real world, as well as Ziya’s struggles with her career, writing, and navigating the complexities of being a single woman in a Pakistani Muslim family. While the resolution of the story felt a little rushed, which was a bit disappointing, the overall conclusion was still satisfying and wrapped up beautifully.

I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartwarming, uplifting love story with no spice.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this opportunity