cover image Tastes Like Shakkar

Tastes Like Shakkar

Nisha Sharma. Avon, $18.99 trade paper (352p) ISBN 978-0-06-300114-5

Sharma loosely riffs on Much Ado About Nothing in this hilarious and red-hot sequel to Dating Dr. Dil. Wedding planner Bobbi Kaur is determined to knock it out of the park for her best friend’s nuptials, especially since a promotion at her uncle’s wedding planning business is riding on the event. Two things stand in Bobbi’s way, however: someone is sending mysterious notes that threaten to derail the wedding, and she’s forced to work with the attractive yet infuriating chef Benjamin Padda. Beneath Benjamin and Bobbi’s constant bickering is the memory of a flirtatious moment they once shared, which could have led to more if Benjamin hadn’t put his foot in his mouth. Working together is difficult, but with Bobbi striving to prove herself to her uncle, and Benjamin wanting to step out of his father’s shadow, the pair agree to a truce to ensure the wedding goes smoothly. One thing may still get in their way, though: their undeniable attraction. With a charming (and lovingly meddlesome) supporting cast and plenty of glamorous pre-wedding events along the way, this exhilarating rom-com hits all the right notes. Readers will have no trouble cheering on these sparring hearts. Agent: Joy Tutela, David Black Literary. (Aug.)