Book Review: I’ll Pretend You’re Mine by Tashie Bhuiyan
Isn’t it funny how a book can sneak up on you? I was coaxed into reading I’ll Pretend You’re Mine by my friend Farah, who couldn’t wait to dive into it herself. Little did I know, I’d find myself completely engrossed, finishing it in a single binge-session. Thank you, Farah; I owe you one! Tashie Bhuiyan has crafted a delightful romance that intertwines the chaotic forces of celebrity culture and personal growth, and I can’t stop thinking about it.
At the heart of the story is Summer Ali, who’s finally breaking free from a controlling upbringing. With the help of her friend Barbie, she’s in the throes of carving out her own identity. This journey leads her to an unexpected encounter with the charismatic yet notorious playboy actor, Jules. The media’s fascination with their chemistry prompts the duo to embark on a faux relationship to bolster Jules’s career ahead of a potentially Oscar-winning role. Talk about a setup ripe for drama!
What I appreciated most was how Bhuiyan seamlessly intertwined themes of anxiety, friendship, and identity throughout the book. Summer is wonderfully relatable; she grapples with impostor syndrome and the baggage of her emotionally abusive family. As she navigates crowded events while battling anxiety, readers feel her struggles deeply. Jules, on the other hand, presents a fascinating contrast. His character is laced with complexity, having to balance personal loyalty with his need for a clean image. Their chemistry evolves tenderly, as they move from strangers to tentative friends, eventually falling in love, which is depicted in the most heartwarming way. Seriously, those forehead kisses? Melting!
Bhuiyan’s writing style is engaging and refreshing. The pacing carries the reader through the glitz and glam of Fashion Week, award shows, and spontaneous moments of genuine connection between Summer and her friends. The dialogue is sharp, filled with humor, and the emotional beats hit just right. One memorable line that resonated with me was when Summer realizes that "putting yourself first doesn’t mean you’re selfish; it means you’re human." That simple yet profound message is a reflection of what so many of us need to hear.
But it’s not just the romance that shines. The bond between Summer, Barbie, and Zach highlights true friendship, a theme that I wholeheartedly appreciated. Their willingness to support her during her anxiety tangents showcases the importance of surrounding oneself with genuine friends who lift you up during challenging times.
In a world that can often seem trivial, I’ll Pretend You’re Mine beautifully addresses important issues—identity, anxiety, and the consequences of familial expectations—all while wrapping them in a charming, romantic package.
If you’re someone who enjoys contemporary romance blended with real-life challenges, this book is for you. Whether you’re a fan of celebrity culture or just need a heartwarming story with some substance, Tashie Bhuiyan’s latest is not to be missed. It’s a delightful escape that leaves you reflecting on your own life choices while celebrating the beauty of self-discovery.
So grab yourself a cozy blanket and prepare to dive into this 4.5-star gem—you won’t regret it! Thank you, HarperCollins and FrenzyBooks, for the lovely e-ARC that enriched my reading experience.
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