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Two Houses
Mixing love and art might end up being an epic disaster…
…or the beginning of a beautiful collaboration.
If there’s one thing Priya Gupta wants, it’s to land the collection of the year for her family’s NYC auction house, gaining the approval of her father in the process.
Running an extremely close second? For a very small sinkhole to open up under the feet of Gavin Carlyle, her childhood rival turned auction-house competitor, so she never has to see his smug, irritatingly handsome face again.
Neither of those options seem likely, especially since Gavin is dead set on winning the same collection—and his pockets are as deep as his family's extensive art world connections. Plus, he has charm to spare. Though Priya would walk over hot coals before ever admitting that.
When they are both invited to a posh country estate to spend the week wooing the prospective client, their longtime rivalry creates sparks, all right, just not the kind either Priya or Gavin ever expected…
…or the beginning of a beautiful collaboration.
If there’s one thing Priya Gupta wants, it’s to land the collection of the year for her family’s NYC auction house, gaining the approval of her father in the process.
Running an extremely close second? For a very small sinkhole to open up under the feet of Gavin Carlyle, her childhood rival turned auction-house competitor, so she never has to see his smug, irritatingly handsome face again.
Neither of those options seem likely, especially since Gavin is dead set on winning the same collection—and his pockets are as deep as his family's extensive art world connections. Plus, he has charm to spare. Though Priya would walk over hot coals before ever admitting that.
When they are both invited to a posh country estate to spend the week wooing the prospective client, their longtime rivalry creates sparks, all right, just not the kind either Priya or Gavin ever expected…
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 23, 2021
31 people are currently reading
940 people want to read
About the author
Suleena Bibra
4 books33 followersSuleena Bibra studied art history in college and loves to travel every opportunity she gets. A bit indecisive, she has worked as a museum intern, lawyer, workers’ compensation adjuster, and private investigator. Author is best, though, so she can continue living out a bunch of other careers without changing out of her pajamas. Suleena writes RomComs heavy on banter, shenanigans, and aggressive whimsy. She spends the rest of her time annoying her bulldog with her love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 24, 2021
Thank you so much to Harlequin - Carina Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Oh my god. This is how you do enemies/rivals to lovers. Suleena Bibra is a powerhouse and I truly cannot wait for everyone to read this book. I can’t believe this is her debut novel. Her writing style and dialogue is so natural and is filled with such witty banter. I absolutely loved following Priya and Gavin. Their relationship was set up perfectly from the first chapter and had such great development over the course of the novel. I also loved how even when Priya and Gavin became “lovers,” they didn’t lose their chemistry and banter. I feel like a lot of enemies-to-lovers pairs become completely different people once they get together but I loved how Priya and Gavin still keep each other on their toes with their pranks, teasing, and competitive nature.
I also loved the desi rep in this book! I’ve read several books featuring desi women paired with white men where the woman has to bend over backwards to explain her culture and background. But, because Gavin is so familiar with the Guptas, he simply loves Priya for who she is without any random insensitive behavior and remarks about her family values and background. I also really appreciated the discussion Priya initiates about how she has to work 10 times as hard as a woman of color than Gavin does in their business. They’re honestly so great together and the 🔥scenes left me shook omg.
I can’t wait to read more of Suleena’s works in the future! I’m so sad that this book is only being published as an ebook with no print copies, but on her website this book is listed as part of the “Love Auction” series, which makes me so excited for her upcoming projects.
Oh my god. This is how you do enemies/rivals to lovers. Suleena Bibra is a powerhouse and I truly cannot wait for everyone to read this book. I can’t believe this is her debut novel. Her writing style and dialogue is so natural and is filled with such witty banter. I absolutely loved following Priya and Gavin. Their relationship was set up perfectly from the first chapter and had such great development over the course of the novel. I also loved how even when Priya and Gavin became “lovers,” they didn’t lose their chemistry and banter. I feel like a lot of enemies-to-lovers pairs become completely different people once they get together but I loved how Priya and Gavin still keep each other on their toes with their pranks, teasing, and competitive nature.
I also loved the desi rep in this book! I’ve read several books featuring desi women paired with white men where the woman has to bend over backwards to explain her culture and background. But, because Gavin is so familiar with the Guptas, he simply loves Priya for who she is without any random insensitive behavior and remarks about her family values and background. I also really appreciated the discussion Priya initiates about how she has to work 10 times as hard as a woman of color than Gavin does in their business. They’re honestly so great together and the 🔥scenes left me shook omg.
I can’t wait to read more of Suleena’s works in the future! I’m so sad that this book is only being published as an ebook with no print copies, but on her website this book is listed as part of the “Love Auction” series, which makes me so excited for her upcoming projects.
Did not finish
August 13, 2021we get it he’s good looking and that makes u irritated u dont have to repeat this to the reader every five paragraphs
December 5, 2021
It was a cute romance and somewhat of a fun plot. But wasn't quite my kind of romance to get more then 3 stars. Enjoyable and a nice listen but nothing more
October 18, 2021
I liked this! You don't read many modern house parties and I was into it here. I don't think the book will ultimately end up being that memorable for me, but I enjoyed reading it and would definitely pick up the author again.
September 18, 2021
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to Harlequin - Carina Press for providing me this arc via Netgalley!
I love a good enemies to lovers, but this wasn't it. The portrayed relationship, and the story in general, lacked depth, development and was overly focused on how hot the main characters were.
Thank you to Harlequin - Carina Press for providing me this arc via Netgalley!
I love a good enemies to lovers, but this wasn't it. The portrayed relationship, and the story in general, lacked depth, development and was overly focused on how hot the main characters were.
Did not finish
October 2, 2021(free review copy) DNF at 25% ~ maybe I’m just weary of the “OMG he’s hot but I hate him but I still want to have sex with him but I hate him but OMG he’s hot” trope 🤷🏼♀️ I’m in the mood for some more grown-up conflict these days I guess
October 22, 2021
4.5 STARS
I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Priya Gupta has dreamed of running the family company, Loot, for as long as she can remember. The only problem? Her father seems to prefer her twin brother Ajay (who would rather become a painter).
Gavin Carlyle is the heir at a competing auction-house of Loot’s and Priya has grown up thinking of him as an annoyance.
Gavin is charming and constantly competing with Priya for clients looking to sell art.
When opportunity strikes for her to land a major collection that would expand Loot’s business from just Indian art, Priya will do whatever it takes. Even if that means spending a week at a lavish country home competing against Gavin for the collection. As the week goes on, Priya starts to see Gavin in a whole new light. Can they ever be more than just rivals?
This was absolutely adorable and I found myself so excited to figure out what would happen next. I relate to Priya a lot— so focused on work and success that you put off relationships. Her and Gavin’s relationship was so swoon worthy and I love how the story ended.
I would recommend if you like:
•rivals to lovers
•competitive banter
•teasing
•irresistible blonde men
•a girl boss women lead
I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Priya Gupta has dreamed of running the family company, Loot, for as long as she can remember. The only problem? Her father seems to prefer her twin brother Ajay (who would rather become a painter).
Gavin Carlyle is the heir at a competing auction-house of Loot’s and Priya has grown up thinking of him as an annoyance.
Gavin is charming and constantly competing with Priya for clients looking to sell art.
When opportunity strikes for her to land a major collection that would expand Loot’s business from just Indian art, Priya will do whatever it takes. Even if that means spending a week at a lavish country home competing against Gavin for the collection. As the week goes on, Priya starts to see Gavin in a whole new light. Can they ever be more than just rivals?
This was absolutely adorable and I found myself so excited to figure out what would happen next. I relate to Priya a lot— so focused on work and success that you put off relationships. Her and Gavin’s relationship was so swoon worthy and I love how the story ended.
I would recommend if you like:
•rivals to lovers
•competitive banter
•teasing
•irresistible blonde men
•a girl boss women lead
January 4, 2022
*I received a free copy of Two Houses. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*
Oh my goodness, the ways I loved Priya and Gavin. Enemies to lovers, in a way for these two, because they grew up children of the bosses of two competing auction houses. And there had always been (un)healthy competition between them. From the first day of school up until now.
I loved their banter and their pranks, but also their art knowledge, their business knowledge, and their loyalty. Priya especially had to fight on all fronts, because her dad wanted the business to stay firmly in the niche he had created for it - not seeing how beneficial Priya's work was both to her and to the company overall.
The romance was absolutely delicious, I loved seeing Priya falling for Gavin, because she really, really didn't want to.
Oh my goodness, the ways I loved Priya and Gavin. Enemies to lovers, in a way for these two, because they grew up children of the bosses of two competing auction houses. And there had always been (un)healthy competition between them. From the first day of school up until now.
I loved their banter and their pranks, but also their art knowledge, their business knowledge, and their loyalty. Priya especially had to fight on all fronts, because her dad wanted the business to stay firmly in the niche he had created for it - not seeing how beneficial Priya's work was both to her and to the company overall.
The romance was absolutely delicious, I loved seeing Priya falling for Gavin, because she really, really didn't want to.
November 23, 2021
3.5/5
Suleena Bibra's debut romance novel is a steamy childhood rivals-to-more romance featuring a spunky Indian American protagonist and the man she's always at odds with. Reading Two Houses was an immersive experience for this reader. From the beginning, the main character, Priya's voice absolutely sparkles. She's funny, witty, and smart. Add to that her obvious passion for art, it made her a very well-rounded character. Her and the love interest, Gavin, obviously don't get along but there's some fierce chemistry underneath their quips. It's fun watching them dance around each other and push each other's buttons. The house party setting also added a fun element to this book. Their banter, sexual tension, and steamy kisses kept me invested in them as a couple. Plus, Suleena Bibra was not afraid to bring all the heat to this book - there's a very memorable mutual masturbation scene, people! I had a great time reading this book and can't wait to read more from the author in the future!
Suleena Bibra's debut romance novel is a steamy childhood rivals-to-more romance featuring a spunky Indian American protagonist and the man she's always at odds with. Reading Two Houses was an immersive experience for this reader. From the beginning, the main character, Priya's voice absolutely sparkles. She's funny, witty, and smart. Add to that her obvious passion for art, it made her a very well-rounded character. Her and the love interest, Gavin, obviously don't get along but there's some fierce chemistry underneath their quips. It's fun watching them dance around each other and push each other's buttons. The house party setting also added a fun element to this book. Their banter, sexual tension, and steamy kisses kept me invested in them as a couple. Plus, Suleena Bibra was not afraid to bring all the heat to this book - there's a very memorable mutual masturbation scene, people! I had a great time reading this book and can't wait to read more from the author in the future!
October 7, 2021
A charming romance book debut from Suleena Bibra!
This childhood rival to lovers book is a fun read. I adore the moments when Priya and Gavin are together. It’s fun to read how they eventually realize how much they have in common than their differences. I like the family dynamic in this story, especially with Priya’s case where familial loyalty, traditions, and seniority factor so much into how it built Priya’s character and her reasoning to break away from it – especially with her capabilities and hard work. It’s a very relatable theme.
Throughout the book, you’ll read about how much Priya “hates” Gavin, and yet can’t seem to stop herself commenting on his looks, character, and accolades. While I see it as a hint to her true feelings, it does feel like a significant amount.
Overall, I enjoyed this book with its delightful characters, swoony moments, and funny banter!
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin – Carina Press, and the author for the e-ARC!
This childhood rival to lovers book is a fun read. I adore the moments when Priya and Gavin are together. It’s fun to read how they eventually realize how much they have in common than their differences. I like the family dynamic in this story, especially with Priya’s case where familial loyalty, traditions, and seniority factor so much into how it built Priya’s character and her reasoning to break away from it – especially with her capabilities and hard work. It’s a very relatable theme.
Throughout the book, you’ll read about how much Priya “hates” Gavin, and yet can’t seem to stop herself commenting on his looks, character, and accolades. While I see it as a hint to her true feelings, it does feel like a significant amount.
Overall, I enjoyed this book with its delightful characters, swoony moments, and funny banter!
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin – Carina Press, and the author for the e-ARC!
October 25, 2021
I have seen some mixed reviews about this book, but I think it’s a solid debut from Suleena Briba. Two Houses follows Priya and Gavin, heirs to rival two art auction-houses in a sort of enemies-to-lovers cute story. They have known each other since kindergarten and have been competing ever since – until they realize that rivalry might not be the only thing they are feeling towards each other.
I liked their chemistry and banter, although at the beginning of the books their actions toward each other were a bit much, and the fact they understood each other’s world. At first, I was a little frustrated that Priya just seemed to accept her father’s favoritism over her brother just because she loved them both, but I’m glad we got to see a supportive family all throughout the book.
I definitely think you should give this one a try!
I received an e-Arc in exchange for an honest review. Thank you HARLEQUIN – Carina Press and Netgalley!
I liked their chemistry and banter, although at the beginning of the books their actions toward each other were a bit much, and the fact they understood each other’s world. At first, I was a little frustrated that Priya just seemed to accept her father’s favoritism over her brother just because she loved them both, but I’m glad we got to see a supportive family all throughout the book.
I definitely think you should give this one a try!
I received an e-Arc in exchange for an honest review. Thank you HARLEQUIN – Carina Press and Netgalley!
October 14, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! There is so much to enjoy here--tons of witty banter, forced proximity, some serious sexy times--it was a joy to read from beginning to end. I also really loved reading about a career that was new to me (both main characters run art auctions at their family's auction houses). It was such an interesting world to be in, on top of these delightful characters.
February 7, 2023
So what does it mean to fall in love with someone who you don't like? Does it mean realizing you've misjudged them; does it mean recognizing their positive aspects over their negative aspects; does it mean you've been the wrong one all along, not them?
Or is it constant bickering, no character development, and random make-out sessions that end in love confessions? Because TWO HOUSES falls closer to the latter.
The positives of this book? There's an easy, humorous feel to this book. Every word flows perfectly into the next; you never have to stop to overthinking, or to dissect what the author is trying to get across. 99% of the time, she'll tell you outright that the main character felt sad / happy / distressed / in love. Even the romantic growth was realistic; despite my qualms with this being labeled as "enemies-to-lovers", both main characters fit together well, and their bickering was, well, funny. It's not always that I can say I genuinely enjoyed reading about the chemistry between two characters. But Gavin and Priya? There was definitely love between them.
However, again—was this love realistic? Sure, there's no reason for me to judge a book so harshly. It wasn't all bad, truth be told. But it did strike me at times that they fell into each other a little too easily for me to be convinced they were enemies. The author seemed to use the same three phrases to demonstrate the loathing between the characters, just twisted to fit the situation: "I'm better than you", "I'm going to win", and "I hate you". Even when the characters seemed to make progress, they'd be dragged three steps back, right to where they'd begun. While people are flawed, I find it hard to believe these characters had any motivation to behave so—well, childishly.
I do recommend this book to people who want to pass the time; there's nothing particularly bad about it. But, yes, it's certainly not advanced literature. (Or even, you know, good.) If your eyes are half-closed, you might be able to enjoy it.
Or is it constant bickering, no character development, and random make-out sessions that end in love confessions? Because TWO HOUSES falls closer to the latter.
The positives of this book? There's an easy, humorous feel to this book. Every word flows perfectly into the next; you never have to stop to overthinking, or to dissect what the author is trying to get across. 99% of the time, she'll tell you outright that the main character felt sad / happy / distressed / in love. Even the romantic growth was realistic; despite my qualms with this being labeled as "enemies-to-lovers", both main characters fit together well, and their bickering was, well, funny. It's not always that I can say I genuinely enjoyed reading about the chemistry between two characters. But Gavin and Priya? There was definitely love between them.
However, again—was this love realistic? Sure, there's no reason for me to judge a book so harshly. It wasn't all bad, truth be told. But it did strike me at times that they fell into each other a little too easily for me to be convinced they were enemies. The author seemed to use the same three phrases to demonstrate the loathing between the characters, just twisted to fit the situation: "I'm better than you", "I'm going to win", and "I hate you". Even when the characters seemed to make progress, they'd be dragged three steps back, right to where they'd begun. While people are flawed, I find it hard to believe these characters had any motivation to behave so—well, childishly.
I do recommend this book to people who want to pass the time; there's nothing particularly bad about it. But, yes, it's certainly not advanced literature. (Or even, you know, good.) If your eyes are half-closed, you might be able to enjoy it.
August 25, 2021
This was an interesting book to read.
Gavin and Priya work for their families' auction houses and they're rivals. They've pretty much grown up in the same circles but there's always been that edge of competition between them.
Being invited to the same house party on account of the same project puts them together under one roof and things between start to change.
I liked the all the art talk and the Indian culture and family dynamics, even though Priya's dad was a jerk.
It was good to see how Gavin and Priya made it work in the end.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Sexual content and language.
Gavin and Priya work for their families' auction houses and they're rivals. They've pretty much grown up in the same circles but there's always been that edge of competition between them.
Being invited to the same house party on account of the same project puts them together under one roof and things between start to change.
I liked the all the art talk and the Indian culture and family dynamics, even though Priya's dad was a jerk.
It was good to see how Gavin and Priya made it work in the end.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Sexual content and language.
September 13, 2021
Wow... Two Houses is one of the best debuts I've read in ages. I was hooked from the first page and couldn't stop reading until I finished it. It's flirty (and a little steamy 😉), funny, and a smart updated take on Romeo + Juliet without being too heavy handed about it...
Priya Gupta loves art and working as an auctioneer for her family's auction house, but hates that her twin brother is seen as the heir apparent and that her father refuses to expand beyond Indian art. She knows that they need to push the boundaries in order to grow the business, so when she hears the rumor that a prominent collector is about start offloading some of his pieces, she jumps at the chance to show her father what she can do. Only one small problem... her childhood rival turned auction-house competitor Gavin Carlyle. Ok, maybe two problems... she's attracted to him almost as much as she hates him - his charm, his ease, his good looks, and the fact that he jet-sets around the world with supermodels. When the collector invites Priya and Gavin to his country house for a week-long house party to vie for his business, the competition heats up... almost as much as their mutual attraction... but can their family and professional rivalries be overcome? Only one way to find out...
There's so much to love about this book - the banter is top notch, the Gupta family antics are hilarious, and the NYC art scene (particularly in an auction house) is fresh. And there are so many sweet moments between Priya and Gavin that are really well written. I enjoyed the tension between these two quite a lot, especially without the gruesome ending, unlike Romeo + Juliet. Really, its just a perfect enemies-to-lovers with so much great banter, some pranks, and romance. If you like The Hating Game, The Spanish Love Deception, or Shipped, you'll love Two Houses!
Thanks to Suleena Bibra, HarperCollins/Carina Press, and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Priya Gupta loves art and working as an auctioneer for her family's auction house, but hates that her twin brother is seen as the heir apparent and that her father refuses to expand beyond Indian art. She knows that they need to push the boundaries in order to grow the business, so when she hears the rumor that a prominent collector is about start offloading some of his pieces, she jumps at the chance to show her father what she can do. Only one small problem... her childhood rival turned auction-house competitor Gavin Carlyle. Ok, maybe two problems... she's attracted to him almost as much as she hates him - his charm, his ease, his good looks, and the fact that he jet-sets around the world with supermodels. When the collector invites Priya and Gavin to his country house for a week-long house party to vie for his business, the competition heats up... almost as much as their mutual attraction... but can their family and professional rivalries be overcome? Only one way to find out...
There's so much to love about this book - the banter is top notch, the Gupta family antics are hilarious, and the NYC art scene (particularly in an auction house) is fresh. And there are so many sweet moments between Priya and Gavin that are really well written. I enjoyed the tension between these two quite a lot, especially without the gruesome ending, unlike Romeo + Juliet. Really, its just a perfect enemies-to-lovers with so much great banter, some pranks, and romance. If you like The Hating Game, The Spanish Love Deception, or Shipped, you'll love Two Houses!
Thanks to Suleena Bibra, HarperCollins/Carina Press, and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 12, 2021
Priya Gupta works for her family's NYC action house, gaining her fathers approval in the process.
Smug & irritatingly handsome Gavin Carlyle, her childhood rival turned auction-house competitor, is out there to steal all her hardwork right under her nose, which she can't let it happen. So the game of pranks, auctions, snarky banter begins until a weekend away at a posh countryside brings them in closed proximity.
This was such a fun and entertaining story. Laughed my way throughout.
Priya was hilarious, beautiful & goofy af. Her relationship with Gavin felt just so perfect. Whether they were enemies or lovers, the spark & chemistry between them was off charts.
Gavin was a understanding, infuriating & hot all at the same time.
I loved the crazy Indian meddling family relationship depicted.
If you liked The Hating Game or The Spanish Love Deceptiom, you'll definitely enjoy this one.
Smug & irritatingly handsome Gavin Carlyle, her childhood rival turned auction-house competitor, is out there to steal all her hardwork right under her nose, which she can't let it happen. So the game of pranks, auctions, snarky banter begins until a weekend away at a posh countryside brings them in closed proximity.
This was such a fun and entertaining story. Laughed my way throughout.
Priya was hilarious, beautiful & goofy af. Her relationship with Gavin felt just so perfect. Whether they were enemies or lovers, the spark & chemistry between them was off charts.
Gavin was a understanding, infuriating & hot all at the same time.
I loved the crazy Indian meddling family relationship depicted.
If you liked The Hating Game or The Spanish Love Deceptiom, you'll definitely enjoy this one.
August 27, 2021
This year is the year that I discovered that as much as I despise the original Romeo and Juliet I really like "retellings"
Gavin and Priya work for their families' auction houses and they're rivals. They've pretty much grown up in the same circles but there's always been that edge of competition between them.
Being invited to the same house party on account of the same project puts them together under one roof and things between start to change.
I very much enjoyed the Bollywhood atmosphere and the art talk, and I like how both of the main characters are well developed and how they get together in the end. Also, the smut level was soooo good.
I had a really fun time reading this story.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Gavin and Priya work for their families' auction houses and they're rivals. They've pretty much grown up in the same circles but there's always been that edge of competition between them.
Being invited to the same house party on account of the same project puts them together under one roof and things between start to change.
I very much enjoyed the Bollywhood atmosphere and the art talk, and I like how both of the main characters are well developed and how they get together in the end. Also, the smut level was soooo good.
I had a really fun time reading this story.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 26, 2021
Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a decent contemporary romance with two warring auctioneers who are childhood enemies and secretly crush on each other. There were some funny moments and sweet moments. I did wish their was bit more angst and sexual tension but entertaining nonetheless.
This was a decent contemporary romance with two warring auctioneers who are childhood enemies and secretly crush on each other. There were some funny moments and sweet moments. I did wish their was bit more angst and sexual tension but entertaining nonetheless.
October 5, 2021
3 stars
This book started strong. I really liked the enemies to lovers vibe between our main characters but then it became a bit predictable and cliché and it lost me for a while.
Still by the end I was back on track and having fun. I think with a second pov this book would've been perfect.
Overall a fun entertaining enemies to lovers/ childhood friends book.
This book started strong. I really liked the enemies to lovers vibe between our main characters but then it became a bit predictable and cliché and it lost me for a while.
Still by the end I was back on track and having fun. I think with a second pov this book would've been perfect.
Overall a fun entertaining enemies to lovers/ childhood friends book.
Read
October 1, 2021Categories
Contemporary Romance, Multicultural & Interracial Romance, Romantic Comedy
Contemporary Romance, Multicultural & Interracial Romance, Romantic Comedy
August 8, 2022
3.5 Stars
3 Chili Peppers
As someone who graduated with a degree in Art History, I'm extremely bias to this book because of all the art that was talked about and organized between the two competing houses. Plus, it's based in New York and a part of it in Long Island (where my parents grew up).
That said, this is an enemies to lovers trope that came to a screeching holt when Gavin makes a bet with Priya and if he wins, they go on a date. Priya has always had a crush on Gavin and they've known each other since elementary school but he's always been her sworn enemy and the two have pretty much competed since they left.
This book is cute. The chemistry was there for me but I really wish we got to know Gavin a bit more.
To be honest, I loved Priya's mom the most. She's an absolute boss and I want to be her friend. She loves her daughter and understands the racism and sexism of their industry and also between their culture and the industry. Priya has to go above and beyond to prove herself to her father, a potential client she's been trying to get for years and in her job. I related to her the most with this. Having to work your way up the hard way in corporate culture as a woman is exhausting and demanding. I genuinely loved reading and relating to this part of the novel.
Chili peppers are 3 bc it does get hot and steamy but not in grand detail as other spicy books I've read.
3 Chili Peppers
As someone who graduated with a degree in Art History, I'm extremely bias to this book because of all the art that was talked about and organized between the two competing houses. Plus, it's based in New York and a part of it in Long Island (where my parents grew up).
That said, this is an enemies to lovers trope that came to a screeching holt when Gavin makes a bet with Priya and if he wins, they go on a date. Priya has always had a crush on Gavin and they've known each other since elementary school but he's always been her sworn enemy and the two have pretty much competed since they left.
This book is cute. The chemistry was there for me but I really wish we got to know Gavin a bit more.
To be honest, I loved Priya's mom the most. She's an absolute boss and I want to be her friend. She loves her daughter and understands the racism and sexism of their industry and also between their culture and the industry. Priya has to go above and beyond to prove herself to her father, a potential client she's been trying to get for years and in her job. I related to her the most with this. Having to work your way up the hard way in corporate culture as a woman is exhausting and demanding. I genuinely loved reading and relating to this part of the novel.
Chili peppers are 3 bc it does get hot and steamy but not in grand detail as other spicy books I've read.
October 31, 2022
Book 110 of 2022
I am surprised that I have no heard much about this book or author because I was surprised at how much I really enjoyed this one. I have been reading a lot of heavy books lately dealing with difficult mature topics, and I was in the mood for a light, fun romance and that is exactly what I got.
I think that there is a rise right now on Indian-female lead characters, and I am HERE for it. I love how the culture (and the yummy food) is brought into the conversation and I really enjoy these authors being true to themselves and sharing that on the page. [Examples -- @FarahHeron with Kamila Knows Best and Accidentally Engaged and @LilleVale with The Shaadi Set-Up]
I loved the idea of enemies to lovers here because it was done in a unique way. I have not read a book about two auction houses, and it's clear that @SuleenaBibra studied art history in college. She brought the knowledge to the subject and I loved this fun setting and competing families and auction houses as the base of the enemies to lovers troupe. She also brought the heat in the chemistry with these two, and overall I just fell for them both.
This was just a fun romance for me that I enjoyed, and feel like more people should be talking about -- I know I will definitely read more @SuleenaBibra in the future. I am oh so excited that there is a holiday-themed follow-up that came out this month, and I am going to gobble that one up too.
Rating -- four stars
Format -- audio book
I am surprised that I have no heard much about this book or author because I was surprised at how much I really enjoyed this one. I have been reading a lot of heavy books lately dealing with difficult mature topics, and I was in the mood for a light, fun romance and that is exactly what I got.
I think that there is a rise right now on Indian-female lead characters, and I am HERE for it. I love how the culture (and the yummy food) is brought into the conversation and I really enjoy these authors being true to themselves and sharing that on the page. [Examples -- @FarahHeron with Kamila Knows Best and Accidentally Engaged and @LilleVale with The Shaadi Set-Up]
I loved the idea of enemies to lovers here because it was done in a unique way. I have not read a book about two auction houses, and it's clear that @SuleenaBibra studied art history in college. She brought the knowledge to the subject and I loved this fun setting and competing families and auction houses as the base of the enemies to lovers troupe. She also brought the heat in the chemistry with these two, and overall I just fell for them both.
This was just a fun romance for me that I enjoyed, and feel like more people should be talking about -- I know I will definitely read more @SuleenaBibra in the future. I am oh so excited that there is a holiday-themed follow-up that came out this month, and I am going to gobble that one up too.
Rating -- four stars
Format -- audio book
August 27, 2021
I sometimes like to pick totally new authors (to me at least). This book has the enemies-to-lovers trope - which I love!
Priya works for her family's auction house in NY and - even though her CEO father clearly favors his son over his daughter - she will do anything to prove her worth to him. She wants to land a special collection, taking the company out of Indian art only and into a new foray. However, competitor's son Gavin also has his eye on this prize collection. He is her old childhood rival and Priya is determined to beat him.
When they are both invited to stay on the estate of the seller it seems Priya and Gavin have more in common than they think and sparks fly. But will the winning of the prize turn their relationship sour?
At first I really had issue with the fact Priya seemed to just accept her father favoring her brother over her. She worked so very hard! I was happy how it all turned out in the end though. The story has that Indian vibe and I enjoyed it very much.
*** I requested and received an ARC via Netgalley and this is my honest and voluntary review. ***
Priya works for her family's auction house in NY and - even though her CEO father clearly favors his son over his daughter - she will do anything to prove her worth to him. She wants to land a special collection, taking the company out of Indian art only and into a new foray. However, competitor's son Gavin also has his eye on this prize collection. He is her old childhood rival and Priya is determined to beat him.
When they are both invited to stay on the estate of the seller it seems Priya and Gavin have more in common than they think and sparks fly. But will the winning of the prize turn their relationship sour?
At first I really had issue with the fact Priya seemed to just accept her father favoring her brother over her. She worked so very hard! I was happy how it all turned out in the end though. The story has that Indian vibe and I enjoyed it very much.
*** I requested and received an ARC via Netgalley and this is my honest and voluntary review. ***
October 28, 2021
2/5 stars!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved the premise of this book. A Romeo and Juliet retelling, but rival families that are auction house collectors? Sign me up. However, the execution of the enemies-to-lovers or rivals-to-lovers trope is so annoying and distracting most of the time due to the superficial nature of their initial annoyance and hatred of each other. The heroine will say how much she hates the hero, but then will describe him as attractive in the same sentence. She's also annoyed with him for his existence's effect on her, like what? I think she's just thirsty for him and she doesn't like to be like the other girls who openly show how they like attractive guys because she really insinuates the I'm-not-like-the-other-girls personality. Because of how superficial these characters are, the romance really did not do much for me. I would still suggest this to readers who loved the enemies-to-lovers trope, maybe they would like this more than I do.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved the premise of this book. A Romeo and Juliet retelling, but rival families that are auction house collectors? Sign me up. However, the execution of the enemies-to-lovers or rivals-to-lovers trope is so annoying and distracting most of the time due to the superficial nature of their initial annoyance and hatred of each other. The heroine will say how much she hates the hero, but then will describe him as attractive in the same sentence. She's also annoyed with him for his existence's effect on her, like what? I think she's just thirsty for him and she doesn't like to be like the other girls who openly show how they like attractive guys because she really insinuates the I'm-not-like-the-other-girls personality. Because of how superficial these characters are, the romance really did not do much for me. I would still suggest this to readers who loved the enemies-to-lovers trope, maybe they would like this more than I do.
September 26, 2021
This was such a fun book, with art auctioneers, pranks (so many pranks and hijinks!), and a literal art porn room. Not art so good it’s pornographic, but a room full of pornographic art. I knew absolutely nothing about art auctions, but I loved being in Priya’s point of view. She’s the boss bitch I love to see in romance novels, unapologetically confident in her abilities, but with so much snark and personality to go with it. And I thought the incorporation of her family and her Indian heritage was great. I loved her so much as a character. And the romance with Gavin… pranks aside, he’s very sweet to her. She just takes a while to notice it (despite incidents like the visit to said art porn room.) I want to see more of her family, especially her cousin and her twin “baby” brother, the artist! All in all, I loved this book and can’t wait for other books in this world!
Thank you to netgalley, who provided this ARC to me in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to netgalley, who provided this ARC to me in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2022
Like a cheesy Hallmark rom com but with a bit of Indian representation and a bit of art auctioning. Somehow this was incredibly refreshing and addicting. Packed with witty banter and fun moments, it was a great respite from all the non-fiction I've been reading. At the beginning, I must admit, Priya's consistently one-dimensional descriptions of Gavin were really cringy - "he's hot, but I hate him" is a trope that can only be reiterated so many times. But this really did play out like a movie to me, from the forced interactions to the week long vacation/work competition. I found a lot of the book relatable and loved how much Priya was portrayed as a hardworking, super motivated, employee of her family's company, but still struggled with her traditional paternalistic (and oftentimes misogynistic) culture. Also, the fact that she got everything she wanted in the end - the guy, the dog, and the trip to Antarctica. A modern day fairytale for the average workaholic, privileged brown woman.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2021
Priya Gupta had to fight fiercely for all she got. Her father runs the family business, an NYC auction house. It was always her twin who was considered the next heir. Only he has more interest in painting. Her father gives her a little piece of the business and she makes it successful, but getting her father's approval is still far off.
And then there is Gavin. Her childhood rival and heir to heir auction-house completion. They are always in completion, and not above playing dirty. It would be easier for her if she wasn't extremely attracted to him. :)
The latest client, they both really want, invited them for a week at this estate, to convince him to pick each one of them. Being in such close proximity, with sizzling chemistry and undeniable attraction, makes them cross the line. :)
It's the most romantic enemies to loves book ever. The banter, the dialogs, are THE best. :) I was giggling all through the book... :) It's very romantic and very, very steamy. :)
received from NetGalley
And then there is Gavin. Her childhood rival and heir to heir auction-house completion. They are always in completion, and not above playing dirty. It would be easier for her if she wasn't extremely attracted to him. :)
The latest client, they both really want, invited them for a week at this estate, to convince him to pick each one of them. Being in such close proximity, with sizzling chemistry and undeniable attraction, makes them cross the line. :)
It's the most romantic enemies to loves book ever. The banter, the dialogs, are THE best. :) I was giggling all through the book... :) It's very romantic and very, very steamy. :)
received from NetGalley
March 11, 2023
A fun read in which Priya Gupta and Gavin Carlyle are vying for the business of a billionaire who owns an art collection he wants to sell but has to choose whose company will manage the auction. Complicating their competition is their long-standing attraction to each other which has been hidden as something else, or is it?
When their hormones get the better of them, the fun only escalates until Priya's father abruptly takes her out of the competition, prompting her to quit. Oh my! Now who's going to keep her family's business going when her twin brother isn't interested?
How this all plays out makes for lots of laughs and some thought-provoking conversations between Priya and her too-stubborn father.
When their hormones get the better of them, the fun only escalates until Priya's father abruptly takes her out of the competition, prompting her to quit. Oh my! Now who's going to keep her family's business going when her twin brother isn't interested?
How this all plays out makes for lots of laughs and some thought-provoking conversations between Priya and her too-stubborn father.
October 1, 2021
Priya and Gavin come from rival auction house families. They've known each other since childhood, and now, as adults, they're continually in competition for clients. Priya is so busy trying to prove herself to her patriarchal father, she devotes all her time to work. Yet she can't deny her attraction to Gavin. When he begins pursuing her romantically, will she choose business or pleasure?
The plot of this rom com is focused on the pranks and competition between Priya and Gavin. It might appeal to readers who enjoyed TO HAVE AND TO HOAX by Martha Waters.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
The plot of this rom com is focused on the pranks and competition between Priya and Gavin. It might appeal to readers who enjoyed TO HAVE AND TO HOAX by Martha Waters.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
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