Books Like...

'I Can't Think Straight' by Shamim Sarif is a story of two women, Tala and Leyla, who are torn between their true feelings and family expectations. Tala, a Palestinian Christian living in London, is engaged for the fourth time but feels something is missing. Leyla, a British Indian woman, is also in a relationship with a man but lacks the spark. When Tala and Leyla meet, they are drawn to each other, navigating a romance amidst cultural and religious differences. The book explores themes of love, friendship, family, and coming to terms with one's true self.

The novel is written in a beautifully descriptive style, weaving together elements of humor, passion, and love. It delves into the complexities of the characters' backgrounds, including their cultural and religious heritage, and highlights the emotional roller coaster of relationships, whether romantic, familial, or friendly. Through the story of Tala and Leyla, the book captures the struggles, joys, and growth that come with being true to oneself in the face of societal expectations and personal desires.

'Up on the Roof' by A.L. Brooks is a slow-burn romance that delves into the lives of Megan and Lena, two women with contrasting personalities and backgrounds. Megan, a funny and caring woman, offers Lena, a shy individual with OCD and anxiety, a place to stay after a storm destroys Lena's apartment. As the two navigate their differences and emotional baggage, their initial discomfort evolves into friendship and eventually romance. The book skillfully weaves together quirky characters, hilarious mishaps, and heartfelt moments, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and unconditional love.

The writing style in 'Up on the Roof' is praised for its excellent dialogue, engaging storytelling, and relatable characters. A.L. Brooks skillfully portrays the inner struggles and insecurities of the protagonists while exploring themes of family, acceptance, and personal growth. The book offers a unique take on the romance genre by incorporating realistic issues and nuanced character development, creating a compelling and heartwarming narrative.

Dulhaniyaa by Talia Bhatt is a vibrant and emotional novella that captures the essence of Bollywood musicals while weaving a poignant lesbian love story. The plot follows Esha, who returns to Mumbai for an arranged marriage but finds herself falling for her dance instructor, Billu. The writing is rich and evocative, transporting readers into the world of Mumbai's streets and the deliciousness of its food, all while exploring complex themes of culture, societal expectations, and the struggles of queer identity.

The book's writing style is immersive, making readers feel as though they are part of a romantic Bollywood film. It elegantly combines humor and heartfelt moments with serious commentary on gender and sexuality, all wrapped in a sweet slow burn romance. Esha's journey reflects many individuals' experiences with identity and familial pressure, mingling joy and sorrow in its narrative. As emotions unfold, the climax brings a grand Bollywood twist, leaving readers wishing for more.

'The World Unseen' by Shamim Sarif is a beautifully written novel set in apartheid South Africa, where two women, Amina and Miriam, find each other and navigate a forbidden love amidst a backdrop of discrimination, hatred, and violence. The story delves into the challenges faced by the Indian community, exploring themes of narrow-mindedness, prejudice, and the heavy price paid by those who dare to be different. Through captivating prose, the author weaves a tale of love, courage, and defiance against societal norms, set against the tumultuous political landscape of 1950s South Africa.

The narrative skillfully intertwines the personal journeys of Amina and Miriam with broader themes of repression, expression, courage, and integrity. As the women grapple with their feelings and strive to break free from oppressive societal constraints, the story evolves into a poignant exploration of tradition, defiance, and the power of choice in the face of adversity.

In 'The Wicked and the Willing' by Lianyu Tan, the story unfolds in 1927 colonial Singapore, focusing on the orphan Gean Choo who becomes a servant to the vampire Verity. As Gean Choo develops feelings for Verity and her loyal helper Po Lam, the narrative delves into dark themes of abuse, horror, and the complex dynamics of their relationships. The book skillfully weaves together elements of gothic horror, violence, and romance, creating a gripping and intense storyline that keeps readers engrossed.

The writing style of 'The Wicked and the Willing' is described as dark, captivating, and well-crafted, with a focus on psychological realism that allows readers to understand the characters' motivations and actions. The narrative presents multiple perspectives, exploring the flaws and complexities of the main characters, while also offering readers the unique opportunity to choose between different endings, adding an interactive element to the storytelling.

In The Jasmine Throne, readers are introduced to a richly woven fantasy world where Princess Malini, exiled to the treacherous Hirana temple by her despotic brother, and Priya, a maidservant with forbidden temple magic, must work together to keep Ahiranya safe and overthrow the emperor. The story delves into complex political machinations, betrayal, mystery, and magic, all set against a backdrop of intricate worldbuilding and compelling storytelling. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, offering a depth of character development and exploring themes of strength, love, revenge, and the blurred lines between them.

The writing style of Tasha Suri in The Jasmine Throne is described as evocative and beautiful, incorporating elements from South Asian myths and motifs to create a unique and immersive reading experience. The world she has crafted is reminiscent of ancient to medieval South Asia, filled with symbols, cultural items, and fantastical elements that set it apart from traditional fantasy settings. The book expertly weaves together themes of imperialism, zealotry, and decolonization, all while showcasing morally grey female characters and a slow-burn romance that captivates readers from start to finish.