The Trouble with Hating You | South Asian Representation and Romance

4/5 stars

Liya is a biochemical engineer who has worked hard to reach a management position. She’s thriving as a single woman living in Houston. The only thing standing in her way from being super happy is the fact that her parents keep trying to set up arranged marriages for her. After she literally runs into her next potential suitor after bolting from dinner, she is frustrated to realize that her suitor is also the good-looking lawyer hired to save her company. 

I was excited to read another diverse romance. This one features Liya, an Indian-American woman who sometimes struggles with her parents’ expectations. This book gave me a small glimpse into Indian culture and the pressure children can still feel even after they’ve grown. Liya was a character I struggled to relate to, but I sympathized with her struggles (also note, trigger warning for sexual assault). At times, I found her need to be independent from both family and friends a bit tiresome, but I tried to remember that I do not have her struggles and do not live in her culture. 

Her romance with Jay was very enjoyable. I liked the romance progression/trope of going from hating someone to loving them. Jay was supportive and understanding. The book was a bit lacking in the steam department, though I expected that. 

Overall, this was a solid romance that delivered a unique story of learning to love oneself and others. I appreciated having more own voices representation on the bookhselves.