Book Smart Kate

Book: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Spice: 🚪

By Sara Desai

I had absolutely no idea what to expect from this novel, but I am so delighted that I had the opportunity to read it. Although technically categorized as a romance, it is much more of a throwback to an old-school comedy “caper” novel. I was laughing from the first page of this outrageously funny book.

Simi and Chloe are ride-or-die best friends. When Chloe is accused of stealing a multi-million-dollar necklace from a museum (she didn’t), Simi brings together a motley crew of strangers to steal it back from the thieves and clear Chloe’s name, picking up the reward money. The gang includes an octogenarian actress, a suit-selling pseudo-gigolo with a heart of gold, an Uber driver with a questionable past, the MMA-aspiring nerd Simi’s parents tried to force her into an arranged marriage with, a French chef, a former priest turned muscle and the mysterious hired recovery artist Jack. 

Is it a crazy, over-the-top plot? Yes. Did I enjoy every minute? Absolutely. As the story unfolds, you become as attached to these characters as they do to each other. Along the way, there are even more madcap characters, adventures, an ice sculpture, an elephant, multiple crimes, and much more. If you are looking for a swoony romance, this isn’t it. But, if you are looking for a riotously good time, this book is 100% a must-read.

Thanks to Valentine PR, NetGalley, Berkley Press, and Sara Desai for the opportunity to read this hilarious book which will be published on July 18, 2023.