A review by bookobsessedmommy
Sugar, Spice, and Can't Play Nice by Annika Sharma

emotional funny inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

The typical merger includes cash, shares, and promises of seats on the board, but this merger is anything buy typical. Two families promise to marry their kids to one another to cement their business relationship, but Payal and Ayaan are not here for it. Payal is a budding fashion designer looking for fun, not forever. Ayaan is the black sheep of the family, with a revolving door of girlfriends and no interest in settling down. Their parents expect to drag them to the altar kicking and screaming, but are surprised when each agrees to the match, but there are terms. Our MC's attempt to play nice for the sake of their ambitions, and are surprised to find themselves feeling more. Secrets always come to the light though, and their spark could get snuffed out before the flames can grow. Great follow up to Love, Chai, and Other Four-Letter Words, following another member of the Chai Masala Club. This story moves a bit slower than I would like and the descriptions of the clothes Payal designs started to blur into endless lists, especially at the fashion show. I would have loved to see some sketches/examples so I could properly picture them. The 3rd act conflict felt a bit dragged out, but it did give Ayaan an opportunity for even more character growth. I assume there will be books for each of the other friends, and I'm excited to read them.