CW: Misogyny; emotional abuse; references to sexual harassment and infidelity

Say You’ll Be Mine is such a delightful fake-dating contemporary with characters I absolutely loved. Seriously, this book is so stinking cute!

Fake dating in contemporary can be very hit or miss for me, but this one worked because Karthik and Meghna had fantastic chemistry. And secretly underneath it all, I think they both wanted to find love (though Karthik may disagree). Also, I loved that we also got an “only one-bed” moment in this book because those are so fun in contemporary romances, and it felt like a realistic setup in this.

While this book isn’t the spiciest, it felt so dang romantic! Part of why it worked so well for me was because Karthik and Meghna are genuinely good and caring people, and things clicked quickly with them. Who wouldn’t love someone who listens to what you say, has your back when you need it, and stands up for you to others? I loved watching their relationship go from essentially strangers who get engaged to friends to something more. And ugh, the pining and slow burn! These two fools were both so in love with each other, but both kept thinking the other was acting a certain way to put on a show for their fake relationship and I loved it! Like the whole bit with the engagement ring? I died! That tension is what I LOVE in a fake dating romance and Kumar executed it flawlessly as I kept yelling at them to admit how they feel and KISS ALREADY.

Now, their romance isn’t without its hiccups. However, I appreciate that Karthik and Meghna talk about what they want out of a relationship like adults. Sure the outcome sucks, but I liked they don’t pressure the other to feel the same way, no matter how much they wish they could. And while Karthik and Meghna have to go their separate ways for a bit, it’s for the better when they come back together. I really loved seeing both of them prioritize themselves during their break to pursue what truly makes them happy – and realizing the final piece of the puzzle was each other. It gave me all sorts of warm and gooey feelings!

I’m unsure if I would classify this as a grump/sunshine romance, but there are some similar vibes. It would be more like a creative, outgoing, sees-the-best-in-everyone vibe with Meghna, versus a more rigid, stern, buttoned-up vibe with Karthik. And I adored these two together so much! Despite their slightly opposite personalities, they cared deeply for their family and friends and would do anything to make those people happy.

Meghna was a delight. She loves her parents dearly even if she feels like she’ll never live up to her mother’s expectation of being an engineer since her passion lies with writing. I loved how outgoing and personable she was – I felt like Meghna was the person I could easily become friends with and know she’d have my back no matter what. She’s a genuinely good person – almost too good to the point where she doesn’t realize she’s being taken advantage of by her best friend/ex-boyfriend that she’s still in love with, Seth (we’ll get to him later).

Compared to Meghna, Karthik is a bit cold and a little awkward in social settings. But once you’re in his head, you realize he just keeps a very tight lid on expressing his emotions. His family dynamics are very different from Meghna’s. He loves his mom dearly and will do anything for her because his dad is absolute trash. Poor Karthik is so worried that he’ll end up like his dad that it basically paralyzes his ability to have a romantic relationship, and all I wanted to do was hug this man and tell him, “You are NOTHING like your father.” Watching him soften up around Meghna and realize the extent of his feelings for Meghna made my heart melt.

Now there is a character I absolutely hated in this book, and I give serious kudos to Naina Kumar because I had such a strong, visceral reaction to this fictional character. And that character would be Seth. My god, how I hated this man! I don’t know what Meghna saw in him and I wish she noticed how terrible he was earlier. It was abundantly clear to me that he was using Meghna to further his own career, and taking credit for her work. There’s nothing more that I hate than men like that! I’m so glad Karthik noticed what a sleazeball Seth was as it gave Meghna the push she needed to see that he’s actually a terrible person. When Meghna finally confronted Seth about it, I was cheering her on from the sidelines because yes, girl! PUT HIM IN HIS PLACE.

I was shocked, SHOCKED I tell you, to discover that this was Kumar’s debut novel! I loved the writing style and the depth of all her characters, even the secondary ones. The pacing was spot-on, and the romance was swoon-worthy. While reading this, I had all the emotions and fell in love with Karthik and Meghna throughout their journey. I cannot wait to see what she writes next as this gave off the perfect rom-com movie vibes.

If Say You’ll Be Mine wasn’t on your radar, it definitely should be! This was so cute and romantic, and I had a blast while reading it, and I think you will too!

Thank you to Random House – Dell/Netgalley for the ARC. All thoughts, ideas, and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I loved this book! It was such a fun, fast, easy, romantic read.

The beginning of the book reminded me a lot of the show Indian Matchmaking on Netflix. I could picture Meghna and Karthik being set up by their parents, going over the "biodata" and sharing tea and food with their parents at their first meeting.

I enjoyed this Indian take on a traditional romance story. The descriptions of clothing, food, and the engagement party for Meghna's best friend were great and had me looking up words to get some visuals on what these items were and looked like. I loved the inclusion of Indian culture and talk about how it differs in various regions of India. I also liked the comparisons of traditional Indian marriage culture versus modern-day culture. It was interesting to see how families meld Indian traditions with American.

The character growth that took place in Meghna and Karthik was also very enjoyable and seeing them overcome their differences/what they thought they wanted made the journey enjoyable.

I look forward to more novels by Naina Kumar and hope she'll continue to educate us more on Indian culture.

Thank you to Netgalley for this early copy. I flew threw this book!

I thoroughly enjoyed this charming romance that taught me a lot about Indian culture. The romance is a slow burn but the chemistry is definitely there. It was a fun read.
Many thanks to Random House and to Netgalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book, in exchange for honest feedback.

I want to start by saying that I really liked that this book had a different spin on the classic "fake-dating" trope. This was the first book I have read where the main characters fake entering an arranged marriage, initially set up by their parents. Having said that, the fake dating trope fell flat for me - it was like a rollercoaster of will-they, or wont-they? and it was just too much back and forth for me personally. The description of the book called the MMC 'grumpy', so I was really hoping for some Grumpy/Sunshine, but that also fell flat if the author was going for that as an added trope. I liked both of the MC, but beyond that there was really nothing amazing about either of them.
(Without giving spoilers) I also did not understand the whole Julie/Seth/Meghna wedding situation and song writing fiasco, it felt like it came out of left field, like an idea that was thrown in, but it just seemed bizarre, and didn't "fit" within the book to me. There were a lot of other side situations taking place that I didn't get either, like Meghna's friend and brother. I am assuming the author was trying to add some depth to the supporting characters, but the side situations just didn't seem to flow with the book.
2.5 stars from me --- I DID like the unique spin on the trope, and I loved the overbearing Indian parents when they had parts in the book, it added humor that I wasn't expecting to get out of this story. I would still recommend this book to any romance reader friends, it just fell flat for me, so I am rating 3 stars - rounding up from 2.5.

Anytime you have a fake dating trope, there’s a good chance someone is going to fall first, fall harder, or fall faster. That is generally what I like most about fake dating—the “suddenly I’m looking at you in a whole new light” realization. This happens to both Meghna and Karthik in Say You’ll Be Mine, a fake engagement turns amorous story, but the way they handle it drove me crazy. It felt like a good portion of the book, neither of them could express their true feelings and hid behind the “we’ll talk later”, or “nevermind” mindset. And that’s the opposite of what I generally WANT out of my romances—for the MCs to express themselves and their feelings. There were definitely opportunities and just when I thought they were making headway, one of them would chicken out and out the relationship back to square one.

I think my other issue was how much of a doormat Meghna was to Seth, letting him run all over her and her feelings. Sure she finally comes around, but it took quite a bit for her to wake up. I really wanted more for Meghna, more for Karthik, but I think the end result is a little Romance lite™️ with a tad more maturity needed. Readers should know that this is very low steam until the 95% mark—perhaps yet another reason why this just wasn’t for me. The I Love Yous came so late that I had trouble believing that they were real and not just infatuation. I think Naina Kumar has the beginnings of a romance career, and this was sweet for a debut, but it just missed the mark for me with what I look for in a fake dating trope. I received an early copy from Random House Publishing Dell. All opinions are my own.

I enjoyed the mix of the fake engagement trope with the cultural overlay of a look at Indian culture as both the H and h have to deal with their perceptions of parental disappointment. Meghna senses that her parents, both engineers, are disappointed in her career choice as an English teacher. And Karthik has to deal with his father's antagonism and his mother’s wish that he gets married. So they agree to a fake engagement. Karthik thinks he’ll never get married because he doesn’t want to turn into his father. Meghna wants a date to her ex’s wedding. Of course, they’ll find out that they are attracted to one another as they get to know each other even though he lives in NYC and she lives in Dallas. Of course, they’ll eventually get to their HEA, but I enjoyed following along as they discover more about themselves and each other.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.

There's just something I really love about a fake dating, arrange marriage book that I LOVE. This is such a CHARMING debut novel.

This book follows as Meghna receives an invitation to her Ex's wedding, Looking for a date, she allows her mom to introduce her to a guy.

Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballentine for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Karthik is feeling the pressure of his parents to get married and settle down, but he'd rather focus on work. The two decide to enter a fake engagement in exchange for Karthik joining Meghna at the wedding.

Over the course of the book, you see the pair slowly get to know each other, become friends before falling in love. I think seeing Karthik fall in love first and really open up about himself was my favorite part of the book overall.

If you're looking for a fun romance book to read, definitely check this one out.

I very much enjoyed this book. I thought the premise of a fake engagement from an arranged meeting was a good way to put the characters together. Meghna & Karthik were wonderful and complex characters. The author really fleshed them out and made them feel real. I enjoyed the developing relationship and the ups and downs. Highly recommend reading this one to see how it plays out.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for advanced copy, and I give my review freely

Naina Kumar's debut romance shines with a delightful mix of tropes – fake dating, family interference, and a touch of miscommunication – all woven into a solid, enjoyable story. The character development of both Karthik and Meghna is a highlight, showcasing their growth throughout the narrative. Despite the slow burn and moments of push and pull between them, Kumar excels at crafting palpable tension and authentic longing, making the eventual realization of their compatibility all the more satisfying. The book adeptly captures the essence of pining, creating an engaging journey as the characters navigate their feelings and relationship dynamics.

Thanks to Netgalley & Ballantine Books for the E-ARC! This was cute. Liked the characters & the setting. Will read more from the author.

This was a fun fake dating/engagement romance with a slow burn. I really enjoyed it - there were characters I loved and characters I hated, but that’s a sign of good writing. There are a couple of interesting side stories too. Highly recommend!

I had such high hopes for this book when I started it. I really was enjoying the author’s writing style and I love nothing more than a fake dating/fake engagement trope. Unfortunately for me there was just way too much miscommunication from the early parts of the book throughout that I could not get on board with this relationship.

This romance was swoony-worthy! Meghna and Karthik both come from Indian families who are pressuring them to make a match and settle down. After an arranged meeting, these two opposites strike a deal for a fake engagement so Meghna doesn’t have to attend her ex-boyfriend’s wedding alone and Karthik can get a break from an onslaught of arranged meetings all over the country and focus on his upcoming work promotion. Meghna is a middle school drama teacher whose parents have a love match and she adores the idea of falling in love and marrying for love. Karthik was raised in a home of an unhealthy marriage ruined by his abusive father so he has sworn off the idea of ever marrying completely.

As the three months of their long distance fake engagement unfold, Meghna and Karthik use phone calls, texting, and weekend trips to develop a close friendship and show up for one another in unexpected ways. Despite the bond and attraction they both grow to feel for one another, their different views on the institution of marriage and career in different cities seem to be a roadblock to any potential real relationship….

Oh man, I really adored these two characters. Despite their opposite viewpoints, there was always respect for one another and open dialogue on the root causes of their differences. That maturity was so attractive to me; add in some seriously fun banter, puns, engagement parties, bachelor weekends, and late-night texting and you get an iconic rom-com for romance lovers. There is pining and unexpected attraction, but my favorite part was watching these two challenge one another into new mindsets and even dreams!

Thanks to the PRH audio program, I listened to the audiobook narrated by Soneela Nankani who did a phenomenal job with both characters POVs, emotions, and personalities. Her emotive narrative had me laughing, sighing, and tearing up! Definitely an outstanding debut and I cannot wait to read what Kumar writes next. Thank you to Dell Publishing, NetGalley, and PRH audio for my early copies in exchange for my honest review.

"Say You'll Be Mine" is a refreshing and engaging story that introduces us to Meghna Raman, a theater teacher and aspiring playwright, and Karthik Murthy, a grumpy engineer. Meghna's world is turned upside down when she discovers her best friend and secret crush, Seth, is engaged—to someone else. Determined to move on, she agrees to her parents' matchmaking attempts, opening the door to a potential match with the engineer they've always envisioned for her.

Karthik, though initially skeptical of arranged setups, finds himself drawn to Meghna's vibrant personality. What begins as a fake engagement to navigate their respective romantic challenges turns into something more profound. As the characters grow protective of each other and discover unexpected commonalities, the chemistry between Meghna and Karthik becomes undeniable. However, their evolving feelings soon face the hurdles of expectations and insecurities, threatening the unexpected real connection that has developed.

"Say You'll Be Mine" not only provides a delightful journey reminiscent of romantic comedies from the nineties but also offers a poignant exploration of the impact of culture and family on intimate relationships. The characters are well-developed, and the narrative skillfully balances humor, romance, and introspection. Meghna's pursuit of her passion and Karthik's resistance to his parents' expectations add depth to the storyline. Overall, this novel is a heartwarming and thought-provoking read, blending nostalgia with a modern perspective on love and relationships.

This book had me from the very beginning. The way the author drew me into the lives of both Meghna and Karthik and made me care for their personal struggles was perfect. I was cheering for them as individuals and as a couple. It was entertaining seeing them struggle against their obvious attraction and growing feelings. Every touch, every smile, hesitation, the looks they sent each other!! Such a well written fake engagement that in combination with the family dynamics, complicated feelings and the one bed situation made me a goner for their story.

I really enjoyed Say You'll be Mine - it falls into the fake relationships trope, which has been done a lot, but this one was so well written and the characters so likable and relatable that it felt new. Meghna is a single Indian-American woman, who has been in love with her white male best friend/ex-boyfriend since college. Her mother tries to fix her up, and she agrees. Karthik is a good looking man, but very career focused, and with a bad example from his father's marriage, he doesn't want to get married but agrees to the set up to appease his mother. Meghna and Karthik's relationship feels real, their growing friendship and attraction blossoms but they want different things and both have family and career issues they are dealing with too. Can't believe this is a debut author - I would definitely read her future books!

4.5 STARS

What a charming read! It's been awhile since I have enjoyed a romance novel and Say You'll Be Mine was so refreshing. It definitely brought to mind the romcom's of the 90s! So bravo! The characters were ones you rooted for and could relate with. The chemistry was compelling and it was simply sweet and wonderful.


Read if you like:
- When Harry Met Sally (who doesn't? Am I right?)
-Grumpy/Sunshine trope
- MC's that you like and can relate with
- Great chemistry

Thank you to Random House and Netgalley for the advanced copy!

This is a cute book that I would recommend. The main character will become one of your favorites! I kept going back to it whenever I would put it down!

I found this book to be a very fun romantic read. I do not know much about Indian culture, so I learned many things from this book. I know it's a romance so obviously they were going to get together, but I was so invested and was enamored with their story. Reading about the growth Meghna had throughout this book, what was brought on by her and what changes she made because Karthik showed her how she should be treated. He builds her confidence and always gives her credit where she should have it. Karthik is not your usual grump to sunshine trope, but I really like him because it's not that he even is a grump; he has more of a shy personality. I thought the romance was well paced as this book takes over the course of several months. Long distance is hard, but this novel wrote it so well. The connection that these two develop over time made me care about them more and the sweet moments they had a lot more than other books where it feels like they only knew each other a week. I really came to care for both Meghna and Karthik by the end of the book. My only problem was even though they do talk, and they do communicate with each other there was still some miscommunication. It's a part of the story and I don't think this story would be as good without it, but I still found it frustrating at time. I am very excited to share this with friends and think it will be perfect for those wanting to read something sweet and romantic around Valentines Day.

3.5 stars rounded up. This was a charming one-sit (!!) debut, but the pacing and miscommunication were off for me.

Say You'll Be Mine follows Meghna, an English teacher living in Dallas who is single and shocked to receive a wedding invitation (and an ask to be best man!) from her college best friend/boyfriend/writing partner (Seth) who she's kind of still in love with, and Karthik, a grumpy engineer living in New York whose parents have a broken relationship so he's sworn off ever being partnered, let alone being married. Their parents try to set them up, and they cook up a fake engagement scheme -- Meghna gets a date to Seth's wedding, Karthik demonstrates to his engineering firm that he can follow through on commitment, and both their parents lay off them for at least a little bit. Of course, the lines get blurry between fake engagement and real feelings.

I really liked the way that Meghna and Karthik started relying on one another as they got closer, even as they were denying their feelings for one another. And I loved the small details and snippets that Karthik paid so much attention to -- Meghna's Hindi joke tee shirts, Bombay toast, how much tea Meghna drinks. It was so clear how he was falling for her.

That said... there was so much miscommunication. The number of times when one of them would tentatively broach the conversation of their feelings being real, and the other one would be like "well I can tell they don't have feelings for me so I guess I'll lie and shut this down" was too high. And it was made more annoying, I think, by the fact that this was in 3rd person. So the inner monologue we got felt distant, as opposed to maybe understanding what Meghna and Karthik are feeling in a 1st person kind of way.

The timing also felt slightly off to me. Sometimes a couple of weeks would pass between chapters without knowing very much about what happened in that time. I think the book might have benefitted from a couple of additional chapters connecting, for example, when Meghna and Karthik agree to their fake engagement scheme and their first event together.

I also don't love reading about the I-am-broken-and-can't-ever-get-married MMC. It's such a flat response to whatever happened in their parents' marriage, and it's so inflexible and frustrating. Especially when all the MMC can say in response to "why don't you ever want to get married?" is just "no."

One more thing that I LOVED was that Meghna, as the best man in Seth's wedding, wore a fitted tux. I mean, 🥵

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House-Ballantine for providing me with an eARC of Say You'll Be Mine in exchange for my honest review.