From Powells.com
The Best Books of 2019 (So Far)
Staff Pick
I am officially obsessed with Sandhya Menon! Featuring Indian American main characters, Menon writes contemporary YA romances that make me want to stand up and cheer. Her fundamental respect for her teen characters clearly shows in her sensitive depictions of their struggles and triumphs. There's Something About Sweetie is a companion novel to the New York Times bestselling When Dimple Met Rishi, but also completely stands on its own. It's the story of Ashish, a handsome charmer whose confidence has been rocked by heartbreak, and Sweetie, an insightful track star who struggles to make her mom understand that for Sweetie "fat" isn't a bad word. A stellar example of what the genre can be: empathetic, joyful love stories dealing with real issues and starring diverse protagonists. Recommended By Christine R., Powells.com
Full of heartfelt laughs and swoon-worthy banter, this book is a MUST! Sweetie is just such a force of nature. She accepts and embraces all of herself in a world that overly focuses on flaws that people have. Ashish and Sweetie are hopelessly adorable as they navigate their new relationship, standing up for what they need to succeed in their lives, both individually and as a couple. Sandhya Menon excels with stories that you just can't help but smile and gush over, both while reading and months later. Everyone needs to get on board for the "Sassy Sweetie Project"! Recommended By Mecca A., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
The irresistible companion novel to the New York Times bestseller When Dimple Met Rishi, which follows Rishi’s brother, Ashish, and a confident, self-proclaimed fat athlete named Sweetie as they both discover what love means to them.
Ashish Patel didn’t know love could be so… sucky. After being dumped by his ex-girlfriend, his mojo goes AWOL. Even worse, his parents are annoyingly, smugly confident they could find him a better match. So, in a moment of weakness, Ash challenges them to set him up.
The Patels insist that Ashish date an Indian American girl — under contract. Per subclause 1(a), he’ll be taking his date on “fun” excursions like visiting the Hindu temple and his eccentric Gita Auntie. Kill him now. How is this ever going to work?
Sweetie Nair is many things: a formidable track athlete who can outrun most people in California, a loyal friend, a shower-singing champion. Oh, and she’s also fat. To Sweetie’s traditional parents, this last detail is the kiss of death.
Sweetie loves her parents, but she’s so tired of being told she’s lacking because she’s fat. She decides it’s time to kick off the Sassy Sweetie Project, where she’ll show the world (and herself) what she’s really made of.
Ashish and Sweetie both have something to prove. But with each date they realize there’s an unexpected magic growing between them. Can they find their true selves without losing each other?
Review
“Hits all the right notes.” Booklist (Starred Review)
Review
“There's something about the way Sandhya Menon writes love stories. I'm head-over-heels for this charming, funny, romantic, life-affirming book.” Becky Albertalli, New York Times bestselling author of Simon Vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and Leah on the Offbeat
Review
A thoroughly delightful romance featuring a spirited, confident, and lovable heroine and an unexpectedly dashing romantic hero. Add to your must-read shelves!” Melissa de la Cruz, New York Times bestselling author of Alex and Eliza and Love and War
Review
“Swoon-prone readers will wish the Patel boys came in six-packs.” BCCB
About the Author
Sandhya Menon is the New York Times bestselling author of When Dimple Met Rishi; From Twinkle, With Love; and There’s Something About Sweetie. A full-time dog-servant and part-time writer, she makes her home in the foggy mountains of Colorado. Visit her online at SandhyaMenon.com.