I decided to pick this up through Libby based on all the good things I was seeing on Instagram. All I can say is, Wow! I am so glad I did! Asian characters and an Autism rep? Yes, please! As a parent with children with Autism, I am so happy to see Autism representation in novels. I could see Autistic characteristics in Khai that are truly spot on for some people with the diagnosis. The sensitivities were accurate, as well as Khai’s lack of communication with Esme. I read the book rooting for both Khai and Esme’s relationship, hoping they could work out things that it’d simply take a conversation to overcome. I thought there was just the right amount of sexiness within the story, the scenes were thoughtful, relatable, and fun without being raunchy. I’d recommend this book if you’re into a slow burn hate to lovers vibe, with a disability representation, and a bit of sexiness that’s nowhere near hard core. The audiobook was perfect!
5 Stars
Synopsis:
“Khai Diep has no feelings. Well, he feels irritation when people move his things or contentment when ledgers balance down to the penny, but not big, important emotions—like grief. And love. He thinks he’s defective. His family knows better—that his autism means he just processes emotions differently. When he steadfastly avoids relationships, his mother takes matters into her own hands and returns to Vietnam to find him the perfect bride.
As a mixed-race girl living in the slums of Ho Chi Minh City, Esme Tran has always felt out of place. When the opportunity arises to come to America and meet a potential husband, she can’t turn it down, thinking this could be the break her family needs. Seducing Khai, however, doesn’t go as planned. Esme’s lessons in love seem to be working…but only on herself. She’s hopelessly smitten with a man who’s convinced he can never return her affection.” – Goodreads
Links to Purchase (No Affiliate): Amazon