plumpaperbacks's review
challenging
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
I went into this book not at all sure what to expect and ended up loving it. I was instantly interested in Khayyam’s and Leila’s stories and charmed by Alexandre. I always love books set in France, and this was no exception.
I’ll admit that Khayyam and Alexandre’s relationship was a bit insta-lovey, but they were super cute and I’m honestly not too bothered by it. He made her a flower crown and took her to a secret garden nook for a private picnic. 🥺 This is peak romance and no one can change my mind. I’ve also realized that it’s always European guys that make me swoon while I’m reading, despite being a massive lesbian, and that American guys both in and out of books need to step up their game. (Note to self: go to Europe to find a girlfriend.)
With this book, Ahmed has written a story unlike any other I’ve read that I know I’ll be thinking about for some time. I would’ve liked a bit more from the ending, but that aside, it was amazing from cover to cover.
Representation
I’ll admit that Khayyam and Alexandre’s relationship was a bit insta-lovey, but they were super cute and I’m honestly not too bothered by it. He made her a flower crown and took her to a secret garden nook for a private picnic. 🥺 This is peak romance and no one can change my mind. I’ve also realized that it’s always European guys that make me swoon while I’m reading, despite being a massive lesbian, and that American guys both in and out of books need to step up their game. (Note to self: go to Europe to find a girlfriend.)
With this book, Ahmed has written a story unlike any other I’ve read that I know I’ll be thinking about for some time. I would’ve liked a bit more from the ending, but that aside, it was amazing from cover to cover.
Representation
- French-Indian-American Muslim protagonist
- Indian side characters
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexism and Misogyny
Moderate: Death, Racism, Slavery, and Drug use
sidbookreviews's review
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
4.0
Mad, Bad & Dangerous to Know is a love letter to all the invisible women of history. It is also a romantic adventure through Paris, and a truly fascinating historical mystery. Leila and Khayyam's stories intertwine beautifully over the course of the book, making it one that you won't want to put down. Mystery, history, romance and Paris are all blended together in this wonderful book, making for a truly special read, and a powerful ode to the nameless women, especially women of colour, whose stories were never told.
Full review to come on my blog!
Full review to come on my blog!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny and Sexism
Moderate: Drug use
Minor: Islamophobia and Racism
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