A fresh, witty rom-com romp set against the backdrop of a high-profile music competition and a riotous Indian weddingZurika Damani is a naturally gifted violinist with a particular love for hip hop beats. But when you're part of a big Indian family, everyone has expectations, and those certainly don't include hip hop violin. After being rejected by Juilliard, Zuri's last hope is a contest judged by a panel of top tier college scouts. The only problem? This coveted competition happens to take place during Zuri's sister's extravagant wedding week. And Zuri has already been warned, repeatedly, that she is not to miss a single moment.In the midst of the chaos, Zuri's mom is in matchmaking mode with the groom's South African cousin Naveen-who just happens to be a cocky vocalist set on stealing Zuri's spotlight at the scouting competition. Luckily Zuri has a crew of loud and loyal female cousins cheering her on. Now, all she has to do is to wow the judges for a top spot, evade getting caught by her parents, resist Naveen's charms, and, oh yeah . . . not mess up her sister's big fat Indian wedding. What could possibly go wrong?

A fresh, witty rom-com romp set against the backdrop of a high-profile music competition and a riotous Indian wedding

About the Author
S. A. Patel is the author of adult and YA debuts publishing in 2020. The Trouble with Hating You, written under the pseudonym Sajni Patel, is the first of two women's fiction titles to be published with Grand Central/Forever. Fabulous early buzz has been building-Apple Books has selected it for their "10 Debuts to Read" in 2020, and Publishers Weekly has called it a "fast-paced romp of a debut . . . the cultural specificity Patel brings makes this rom-com feel fun and fresh." Her YA debut, The Knockout, published in January 2021 from Flux. She currently lives in Texas.

Reviews
A vibrant and luscious celebration of the Indian culture. I couldn't have enough of everything--the extravagant wedding, the gorgeous outfits, the food, and of course, Patel's trademark strong female mains! -- Jesse Q. Sutanto, bestselling author of Dial A for Aunties
Many teens will be able to relate to Zurika's persistence in following her dreams and courage in speaking up for herself. Zurika also embraces her Indo-Trinidadian roots and bucks against white beauty standards... Patel leverages Zurika's budding romance with Naveen well, and their sweet but competitive relationship will leave readers hopeful. This warm hug of a novel will find a cherished spot on many bookshelves. * Booklist *
Provides a sweeping portrait of the South Asian diaspora, and offers an affectionate and lushly detailed window into the family's wedding experience. * Publishers Weekly *
From prayerful puja to high-energy garba dances, Patel lovingly portrays the rich and vibrant festivities of a Gujarati Hindu wedding celebration. . .A sweet and entertaining romp. * Kirkus Reviews *



Book Information
ISBN 9781419754531
Author Sajni Patel
Format Hardback
Page Count 304
Imprint Amulet Books
Publisher Abrams