An #ownvoices debut novel about a fiercely independent Indian-American woman who defies tradition--including suitors approved by her parents--and ends up running away from the one who might turn out to be Mr. Right. Perfect for fans of Helen Hoang and Jasmine Guillory!

A laugh-out-loud debut about first impressions, second chances, and finding your soulmate in the most unexpected place. Liya Thakkar refuses to play by the rules. An Indian-American, MBA-toting biochemical engineer, Liya has always fought against the role of women in her culture. If there's one thing she knows, it's that she will never, ever be a docile Indian housewife. So when a visit to her parents' house ends up being an ambush with a probable suitor, Liya bolts. Catching sight of his 'date' sneaking out the back door, Jayesh Shah is shocked and angry--mostly on behalf of his mother, who is taking the failed meeting personally. But then Jay is relieved, he's heard rumors about Liya... and she definitely doesn't seem like the type of woman who wants to get married. Liya and Jay would love to pretend the other doesn't exist, but Jay happens to be the new hotshot lawyer hired to rejuvenate Liya's failing company. Try as they might, they can't avoid one another for long. Liya thinks Jay is domineering and cocky, Jay thinks Liya is unpredictable and cold. But the more time they're forced to spend together, the more these assumptions are stripped away. Will Liya's fear of losing her independence mean turning her back on true love?