Book Perfume

It is a truth universally acknowledged that an inspired Pride and Prejudice retelling will win me over every time.

Not since Bridget Jones’s Diary has an Austen adaptation stolen my heart as much as Sonali Dev’s new novel, Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors. Set in present-day California, it tells the story of Dr. Trisha Raje, an acclaimed (also see: PROUD) neurosurgeon who has somehow still attained black sheep status in her massively overachieving , influential, and wealthy Indian American family. Her life couldn’t be more different than that of DJ Caine, a street-smart chef from humble beginnings who may hold a bit of a chip on his shoulder against the silver-spooned elite—especially one haughty doctor who inadvertently insults him on their first meeting. DJ makes up his mind about Trisha instantly (SNOB) before making one inconvenient discovery: she’s the only surgeon who can save his sister’s life. First impressions, long-held prejudices, and—yes—stirring attraction chase DJ and Trisha through this beautifully woven tale, and I must tell you how ardently I admired and loved it.

With this book, Sonali Dev pulls off an outstanding feat: she pays beautiful homage to the eternally beloved Austen classic, while also crafting a tale that feels unique, original, and brand new. The elements we revere in Pride and Prejudice are all here (including a wicked Wickham), but the characters and plot are fresh, creative, and stand entirely on their own merit. In addition to the themes of rushed judgments and bull-headed soulmates, Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors tackles race, class, family dynamics, the immigrant experience, and straddling cultural heritage with the American dream. I loved Trisha, DJ, and all of the other unforgettable characters that gave this novel its flavor. The fact that I was constantly moved and surprised by where the story turned—despite it being inspired by a tale as old as time (and a novel I’ve analyzed within an inch of its life)—speaks to the utter beauty of this book and the sheer talent of Sonali Dev.

Fans of Jane Austen cannot afford to miss this book, but I can promise you it is an absolute delight even if you’ve never read the source material. Do yourself a favor and sink your teeth into Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors. Once you get a taste of this delicious treat, you’ll be begging for seconds.

Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors is out today! For more on this book and Sonali Dev, visit sonalidev.com and follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! Buy the book now at Barnes and Noble, IndieBound, Amazon, or wherever you buy your books. And don’t forget to check out Sonali’s fellow Tall Poppy Writers!