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The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal
"How have you gotten out of your comfort zone?"
That’s the Stanford admissions prompt that valedictorian shoo-in Aisha Agarwal can’t answer. Her life’s been homework and junk food. So, when her crush, Brian, asks her to winter formal, Aisha thinks her fate is changing . . .
. . . until Brian stands her up.
As if on cue, a banged-up Volkswagen arrives outside the dance; the driver profusely apologizing for being late to pick her up. Does Aisha know him or what he's talking about? No. Does the Stanford essay convince her to take him up on the ride? Absolutely.
To Aisha’s relief, seventeen-year-old Quentin Santos isn’t a kidnapper, but he is failing math. They strike a deal: if Aisha helps Quentin pass math, he’ll help push her out of her comfort zone, using a series of sticky note to-do’s—dares—that will not only give Aisha content for her essay, but will turn her into the confident person she’s always wanted to be.
From New Year’s Eve kisses to high school parties, Aisha’s sticky note manifesto is taking off. But when she falls for the wrong guy, hurts her best friend, and still can’t finish her essay, victory feels far from reach.
Is winning worth it if you end up losing yourself in the process?
This is Ambika Vohra's heartfelt and hilarious debut novel, for fans of Netflix's Never Have I Ever and Jenny Han.
That’s the Stanford admissions prompt that valedictorian shoo-in Aisha Agarwal can’t answer. Her life’s been homework and junk food. So, when her crush, Brian, asks her to winter formal, Aisha thinks her fate is changing . . .
. . . until Brian stands her up.
As if on cue, a banged-up Volkswagen arrives outside the dance; the driver profusely apologizing for being late to pick her up. Does Aisha know him or what he's talking about? No. Does the Stanford essay convince her to take him up on the ride? Absolutely.
To Aisha’s relief, seventeen-year-old Quentin Santos isn’t a kidnapper, but he is failing math. They strike a deal: if Aisha helps Quentin pass math, he’ll help push her out of her comfort zone, using a series of sticky note to-do’s—dares—that will not only give Aisha content for her essay, but will turn her into the confident person she’s always wanted to be.
From New Year’s Eve kisses to high school parties, Aisha’s sticky note manifesto is taking off. But when she falls for the wrong guy, hurts her best friend, and still can’t finish her essay, victory feels far from reach.
Is winning worth it if you end up losing yourself in the process?
This is Ambika Vohra's heartfelt and hilarious debut novel, for fans of Netflix's Never Have I Ever and Jenny Han.
Hardcover
First published August 27, 2024
31 people are currently reading
5126 people want to read
About the author
Ambika Vohra
1 book51 followersHi, I’m Ambi and author of YA novel The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal, by Quill Tree Books (Harper Collins). If you’d like to get the occasional update on what I’m up to, you can go to my website and subscribe to my newsletter or follow me at @ambiwritesbooks on Instagram!
I’m going to try not to spend too much time here apart from answering reader questions or posting updates, but I probably will end up lurking at times to read some reviews and memorize them word-for-word and it’s going to be so healthy and wonderful…*coughs*
For a bit about me, I grew up in Michigan in a small town full of corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and freezing winters. After graduating from college, I moved out to sunny California and have been here ever since (we still have some pumpkin patches, thankfully).
For anyone reading this, thank you for reading my book, considering to read my book, or accidentally clicking on this. Writing is what I’ve always dreamed of doing, and I feel lucky to interact with you in this cup-and-string way…not so close, but not so far either. My books are for you.
I’m going to try not to spend too much time here apart from answering reader questions or posting updates, but I probably will end up lurking at times to read some reviews and memorize them word-for-word and it’s going to be so healthy and wonderful…*coughs*
For a bit about me, I grew up in Michigan in a small town full of corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and freezing winters. After graduating from college, I moved out to sunny California and have been here ever since (we still have some pumpkin patches, thankfully).
For anyone reading this, thank you for reading my book, considering to read my book, or accidentally clicking on this. Writing is what I’ve always dreamed of doing, and I feel lucky to interact with you in this cup-and-string way…not so close, but not so far either. My books are for you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
January 29, 2024
FIVE STARS FROM A VERY UNBIASED THIRD-PARTY SOURCE!
Kidding, but I couldn't help but drop in here to say that I'm beyond excited to share my book with you all when it comes out this August, and I'm incredibly honored that real people with real eyeballs and/or eardrums will be experiencing the words I wrote! WILD.
I grew up devouring YA, and I always had questions like, "Wait, how did their parents let them do that?" or "Where did they find the money to live in their estranged grandmother's cottage in Ireland for a summer while finding love?" or "They went to the beach? Didn't they have to study for AP exams over Spring break?" So when I started writing this book back in 2017, I wanted it to feel adventurous, silly, and dramatic like the YA novels I loved so much, but within the unspoken rules of my teen experience, constraints including: having ungodly amounts of homework, having protective parents, being scared to try new things, having little to no disposable funds outside of lunch money (which is why I used the heck out of my library card back then), sometimes feeling too Indian or not Indian enough, and wanting to date but having no idea how (I still don't fully know, tbh).
I wrote this book because I thought I had a message to share with young readers, but actually, the process of writing this book sent me a message. It gave me a much-needed reminder that our lives are not to-do lists; we are so much more than the things we "achieve". And as for the things about us that cannot be captured on paper - the sound of our laughs, the bend of our walks, the bounces of our toes when waiting in line - those parts are the very ones that make us the most interesting.
Happy reading, and thank you for giving my book a chance in a world full of amazing books!
Kidding, but I couldn't help but drop in here to say that I'm beyond excited to share my book with you all when it comes out this August, and I'm incredibly honored that real people with real eyeballs and/or eardrums will be experiencing the words I wrote! WILD.
I grew up devouring YA, and I always had questions like, "Wait, how did their parents let them do that?" or "Where did they find the money to live in their estranged grandmother's cottage in Ireland for a summer while finding love?" or "They went to the beach? Didn't they have to study for AP exams over Spring break?" So when I started writing this book back in 2017, I wanted it to feel adventurous, silly, and dramatic like the YA novels I loved so much, but within the unspoken rules of my teen experience, constraints including: having ungodly amounts of homework, having protective parents, being scared to try new things, having little to no disposable funds outside of lunch money (which is why I used the heck out of my library card back then), sometimes feeling too Indian or not Indian enough, and wanting to date but having no idea how (I still don't fully know, tbh).
I wrote this book because I thought I had a message to share with young readers, but actually, the process of writing this book sent me a message. It gave me a much-needed reminder that our lives are not to-do lists; we are so much more than the things we "achieve". And as for the things about us that cannot be captured on paper - the sound of our laughs, the bend of our walks, the bounces of our toes when waiting in line - those parts are the very ones that make us the most interesting.
Happy reading, and thank you for giving my book a chance in a world full of amazing books!
March 23, 2024
This book had me laughing out loud and crying actual tears. I don’t think the synopsis really does it justice. Yes, it’s a boy-meets-girl teen romance with two romantic leads. Yes, it’s the journey of an academic-focused girl wanting to have the stereotypical high school experience before she graduates. Yes, it’s the story of a kid navigating the way between her Indian home life and American school life. But mostly, it’s the story about the beauty of friendship, taking chances, and enjoying the small moments of life.
This story is by no means unpredictable. From the moment I picked up the book, I had a pretty good idea where everything would end. What I didn’t expect was to find myself crying as everything came to a close. There are few books where I absolutely fall in love with every character. From Aisha herself to her friends to her sister to the parents and grandparents we meet along the way, each character is an absolute gem. It’s also refreshing to read a YA book where the teens act like teens and are in relatable situations.
So appreciative to have gotten an ARC of this one, as I absolutely will hype this up. Though this is a debut author, I’m hooked by her writing style and am looking forward to what comes next. 🙏🏼
Now, on to start my own sticky note manifesto~ 👋 📝
This story is by no means unpredictable. From the moment I picked up the book, I had a pretty good idea where everything would end. What I didn’t expect was to find myself crying as everything came to a close. There are few books where I absolutely fall in love with every character. From Aisha herself to her friends to her sister to the parents and grandparents we meet along the way, each character is an absolute gem. It’s also refreshing to read a YA book where the teens act like teens and are in relatable situations.
So appreciative to have gotten an ARC of this one, as I absolutely will hype this up. Though this is a debut author, I’m hooked by her writing style and am looking forward to what comes next. 🙏🏼
Now, on to start my own sticky note manifesto~ 👋 📝
August 20, 2024
Many thanks to Harper360YA for the digital review copy!
Starting this, I was immediately charmed by the fresh, funny but heartfelt writing style. Aisha is a hilarious, relatable, loveable main character. There's the exact right amounts of chaos and heart, of coming of age and romance, to keep things balanced and interesting. I could easily picture this as a romcom movie, or a Netflix show.
Starting this, I was immediately charmed by the fresh, funny but heartfelt writing style. Aisha is a hilarious, relatable, loveable main character. There's the exact right amounts of chaos and heart, of coming of age and romance, to keep things balanced and interesting. I could easily picture this as a romcom movie, or a Netflix show.
August 31, 2024
I adore this book.
I adore Quentin and Aisha. Their chemistry was amazing. I loved their jokes, their honesty with one another, the way they opened up to each other like they haven’t been able to with anyone else, the way they challenged each other, just the way they SAW each other even when they couldn’t see themselves (sometimes especially hard for Aisha with her mega thick glasses).
Quentin is someone who, to those around him and even by his own admission, isn’t trying hard enough and Aisha is trying too hard…they contrasted each other and it was interesting to see them come together and challenge each other, both of them coming to the realisation that it’s okay to want.
Vohra explores what it’s like having a mixed raced identity in this/coming from two different cultural backgrounds (additionally looking in to class, as well) and how this can have an impact on how you feel you fit in — like you’re never enough for either group. I think this was done really well and I liked how we got different explorations of this with both Aisha and Quentin.
We had a great bunch of side characters in this but most notably has to be Owen, Quentin’s younger neighbour who he occasionally babysits. He was adorable and I love how he was an unintentional/accidental wingman. I also really loved the parents in this, both of Aisha’s and Quentin’s mum. I loved how loving and supportive they were. It was such a joy seeing those family units on page. I really liked seeing the storyline with grief and Quentin’s grandpa too, I think that was well done.
Thank you to HarperCollins Children's Books | Quill Tree Books for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I adore Quentin and Aisha. Their chemistry was amazing. I loved their jokes, their honesty with one another, the way they opened up to each other like they haven’t been able to with anyone else, the way they challenged each other, just the way they SAW each other even when they couldn’t see themselves (sometimes especially hard for Aisha with her mega thick glasses).
Quentin is someone who, to those around him and even by his own admission, isn’t trying hard enough and Aisha is trying too hard…they contrasted each other and it was interesting to see them come together and challenge each other, both of them coming to the realisation that it’s okay to want.
Vohra explores what it’s like having a mixed raced identity in this/coming from two different cultural backgrounds (additionally looking in to class, as well) and how this can have an impact on how you feel you fit in — like you’re never enough for either group. I think this was done really well and I liked how we got different explorations of this with both Aisha and Quentin.
We had a great bunch of side characters in this but most notably has to be Owen, Quentin’s younger neighbour who he occasionally babysits. He was adorable and I love how he was an unintentional/accidental wingman. I also really loved the parents in this, both of Aisha’s and Quentin’s mum. I loved how loving and supportive they were. It was such a joy seeing those family units on page. I really liked seeing the storyline with grief and Quentin’s grandpa too, I think that was well done.
Thank you to HarperCollins Children's Books | Quill Tree Books for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
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March 4, 2025
Thank you so much to Quill Tree Books for sending me an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Despite my general dislike of books based on the high school experience, here I am reviewing another one. Somebody, please stop me from doing this again.
That being said, I still found The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal enjoyable. This could have even been a four-star read if not for Aisha.
In my opinion, Aisha is incredibly unlikeable. She comes across as controlling and can sometimes be snobby. I am sympathetic to the fact that Aisha has been shaped by her insecurities, but if we knew each other in real life, I would actively avoid her.
Also, Aisha is delusional.
I saw no reason for her to like Brian. I understand romantic feelings can be irrational, but Brian hasn’t done anything crush-worthy. Brian is not charming. He is a desperate, serial monogamist who took advantage of Aisha. As the reader, I remained unconvinced that Brian could ever be an option.
On the flip side, I am such a fan of Quentin. He is the reason why I kept reading. I had to see Quentin get his happy ending.
Plus, the cultures represented by both main characters warm my heart. I love that there is foreign language dialogue. It makes the story more immersive. In particular, I love love love the depiction of Filipino culture. As a Filipino-American, I am always happy to see some of my traditions in books.
The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal is a delightful debut; it's is an entertaining snapshot of an American high school experience.
Bottom line: I feel validated in my stationary collection.
༝༚༝༚
my blog!
Despite my general dislike of books based on the high school experience, here I am reviewing another one. Somebody, please stop me from doing this again.
That being said, I still found The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal enjoyable. This could have even been a four-star read if not for Aisha.
In my opinion, Aisha is incredibly unlikeable. She comes across as controlling and can sometimes be snobby. I am sympathetic to the fact that Aisha has been shaped by her insecurities, but if we knew each other in real life, I would actively avoid her.
Also, Aisha is delusional.
I saw no reason for her to like Brian. I understand romantic feelings can be irrational, but Brian hasn’t done anything crush-worthy. Brian is not charming. He is a desperate, serial monogamist who took advantage of Aisha. As the reader, I remained unconvinced that Brian could ever be an option.
On the flip side, I am such a fan of Quentin. He is the reason why I kept reading. I had to see Quentin get his happy ending.
Plus, the cultures represented by both main characters warm my heart. I love that there is foreign language dialogue. It makes the story more immersive. In particular, I love love love the depiction of Filipino culture. As a Filipino-American, I am always happy to see some of my traditions in books.
The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal is a delightful debut; it's is an entertaining snapshot of an American high school experience.
Bottom line: I feel validated in my stationary collection.
༝༚༝༚
my blog!
October 14, 2024
No matter how old I get, I always love a good coming-of-age story. Maybe that's because even at 24, I still feel like I am a kid and that I have a lot of growing up to do still. The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal is charming, delightful and quite possibly one of my favourite coming-of-age stories that I have read in recent memory. It's perhaps even more endearing to me because as a young Indian girl living in another country, I related to so much of what Aisha felt. This book captures so perfectly well the trials and tribulations of growing up, trying to fit in and meeting your expectations at the same time.
I remember how stressed I used to be when I was applying to colleges way back in 2017-18 (seven years ago now, holy hell!) and I felt a little called out by this book. But really, in the best way possible. This book is a lesson on learning how to relax, to let yourself do what you want and that college applications really aren't the end-all be-all. I adored Ambika Vohra's writing style and how reminded so much of my favourite books, and that's just because this too has become of my favourites. Seriously, the writing style is so charming and just really a lot of fun to read.
The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal is the book for you if you are looking for something lighthearted, yet reflective and delightful and something that will make you think. I loved this a lot and I cannot wait to read more of what Ambika Vohra writes.
Thank you Harper360 YA/Quill Tree Books for sending me an e-ARC!
I remember how stressed I used to be when I was applying to colleges way back in 2017-18 (seven years ago now, holy hell!) and I felt a little called out by this book. But really, in the best way possible. This book is a lesson on learning how to relax, to let yourself do what you want and that college applications really aren't the end-all be-all. I adored Ambika Vohra's writing style and how reminded so much of my favourite books, and that's just because this too has become of my favourites. Seriously, the writing style is so charming and just really a lot of fun to read.
The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal is the book for you if you are looking for something lighthearted, yet reflective and delightful and something that will make you think. I loved this a lot and I cannot wait to read more of what Ambika Vohra writes.
Thank you Harper360 YA/Quill Tree Books for sending me an e-ARC!
December 13, 2024
Ohmygawwwd ...this was such a fun readddddd..made me squeal, fawn, and genuinely laugh.
PS: I hate the FMC ...she is selfish....
Yes I said it ..she only went Quentin because she confirmed Brian didn't like her ...again she is selfish and immature and self absorbed
#isaidwhatisaid
PS: I hate the FMC ...she is selfish....
Yes I said it ..she only went Quentin because she confirmed Brian didn't like her ...again she is selfish and immature and self absorbed
#isaidwhatisaid
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this story... Sometimes you're interested in someone else. But the person for you is right by you..
January 4, 2025
I couldn’t put it down!
September 18, 2025
4.5⭐️
This was such a good book!! I wanted to slap some sense in Aisha at some points, buttttt other than that, I related to her a lot!
Quinton was such a sweet heart, and I loved him💞
The character growth in this book was phenomenal!
I also loved Owen🫶
That's all✌️
This was such a good book!! I wanted to slap some sense in Aisha at some points, buttttt other than that, I related to her a lot!
Quinton was such a sweet heart, and I loved him💞
The character growth in this book was phenomenal!
I also loved Owen🫶
That's all✌️
May 18, 2025
you know what, hell yeah. this was romanticised in some parts, but I also couldn't find a plot hole - everything fit like a puzzle into each other at the end. it is just what I needed. a really fun, light read yay :D
February 21, 2024
This book is a YA book that is more realistic than alot of YA books I've read which makes it relatable and has a taste of escapism with Aisha's adventures. Aisha's wholesome encounters put her out of her comfort zone that most of us forget to do ourselves. The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal provides a feel of nostalgia with Aisha's life, "growing up" moments, and evaluates the meaning of love and life in a light hearted way. Aisha's story has lessons for any age to appreciate whole heartily. This genre is long-overdue for providing multicultural perspectives as a YA growing up in America, which is not only more accurate but more relatable for readers all over which this author provides! The experience Aisha goes through is comical at times and touches on the realistic struggles of high schoolers in this generation. I highly recommend this book, and congratulate this author. It's time to write our own sticky note manifestos. :)
May 30, 2025
love love love love love
September 1, 2024
the two stars are for quentin and for quentin ALONE (ok add his mom and owen too). everybody else sucked so bad. especially aisha. first off, why is a hindu indian named aisha? aisha and seema are both muslim names. my mind conjuring quentin tarantino every time i read quentin didn't help either. secondly, i do not believe for a sec this whole plot of aisha meeting quentin accidentally in his car and becoming besties could happen in real life. i know you're going 'yeah bc its fiction' but even fiction has to has some semblance of logic. aisha trauma dumping on him in his room a day after meeting him for the first while supposedly having strict parents and being a rule follower was itself a check on that manifesto. oh god i started to hate aisha when she started banking on other ppl stable minds to help her. marcy was right af to bail on her. i wish quentin did too. the timeline of him falling for her was too quick. he deserves better idgaf! im not convinced aisha helped him back enough. he did most of the heavy lifting imo. usually im fine with the guy doing all the work in winning the girl but nahhh aisha was useless. the other dude, brian, had no dimension whatsoever. the third act when everything is going to shit had little to none impact. i was like 'is that it?'. everybody forgave aisha over ravioli.
this is a rant but i have to say, i read it within 3-4 hrs so thats a plus. its what i expect from a well written ya contemporary so not bad for a debut. i just didn't agree with the arcs.
this is a rant but i have to say, i read it within 3-4 hrs so thats a plus. its what i expect from a well written ya contemporary so not bad for a debut. i just didn't agree with the arcs.
September 2, 2024
Great debut! Look forward to more from Vohra.
November 10, 2024
Aisha möchte einen richtig guten Schulabschluss, um in Stanford studieren zu können. Sie will damit in die Fußstapfen ihrer Mutter treten, welche ihr Studium damals nicht abgeschlossen hat. Und sie wäre gern mit Brian zusammen, den sie schon seit Kindertagen kennt und der plötzlich wieder Interesse an ihr hat. Ihr Date für den Winterball läuft alles Andere als gut und Aisha findet sich mit einem fremden Jungen beim Eis essen wieder. Dieser soll ihr dabei helfen sich aus ihrer Komfortzone heraus zu bewegen, denn darüber soll sie ein Essay für Stanford schreiben. Doch kann das so funktionieren oder verrennt Aisha sich in der Sache irgendwie?
Die Idee mit dem Klebezettel Manifest fand ich super, auch wenn es am Ende eigentlich auch nur eine Bukett List war. Gefallen hat es mir trotzdem und die Ziele darauf waren auch nicht utopisch. Sie waren realistisch und machbar.
Die Story an sich war gut, zog sich aber auch an einem bestimmten Punkt etwas. Dazu kam, dass es mir wahnsinnig leid tat, wie Aisha versucht hat krampfhaft Jemand zu sein der sich eigentlich nicht ist. Tatsächlich gefühlt auch ohne es zu merken, dass es sich hier und da vielleicht falsch anfühlt. Dabei stößt sie ihre Wingmans teilweise leider auch vor den Kopf.
Aisha selbst fand ich direkt wahnsinnig sympathisch. Eine tolle junge Frau der es nicht leicht fällt, aus sich herauszukommen. Wad an ihren Wurzeln und wahrscheinlich auch an der finanziellen Situation liegt. Während fast alle Schüler ihrer Schule Geld haben, hat sie eine Stipendium. Weshalb sie noch verbissener kämpft die Beste zu sein.
Wie sie für das Essay ihre Komfortzone verlässt fand ich spannend zu verfolgen. Wie schon geschrieben, versucht sie immer das Beste aus sich herauszuholen und vergisst dabei leider auch, dass es da draußen noch mehr gibt. Das ein oder andere hat sie bereits verpasst, aber dafür ist ja in gewisser Weise jetzt auch das Manifest da.... und Quentin.
Quentin ist ein wahnsinnig lieber Typ und ich frage mich tatsächlich wie er nicht merken konnte, dass Aisha nicht die ist, die er eigentlich abholen sollte. Oder wollte er es vielleicht nicht merken?! Ihn mochte ich vom Fleck weg und seine ganze Art über die Story hinweg war einfach super.
Allgemein war die Lovestory geprägt von viel: Ich merk es nicht. Leider von Aishas Seite. Denn ich finde sowohl Brian, als auch Quentin waren was das angeht durchaus durchschaubar. Vermutlich deutet man aber die Zeichen einfach falsch, wenn man sich auf Jemand bestimmten eingeschossen hat.
Fazit
Alles in Allem eine tolle Story für Zwischendurch die mir gut gefallen hat. Manchmal ist es wichtig aus sich herauszukommen, aber man sollte darüber nie vergessen wer man eigentlich ist und was einen ausmacht. Ab und zu aus der Komfortzone raus ist Alles gut und schön, aber nicht nur um anderen zu gefallen. Das muss auch Aisha lernen. Was die Lovestory angeht konnte diese nur wenig überraschen, aber ganz süß gemacht war es trotzdem. Am Ende 3,5 Sterne
Die Idee mit dem Klebezettel Manifest fand ich super, auch wenn es am Ende eigentlich auch nur eine Bukett List war. Gefallen hat es mir trotzdem und die Ziele darauf waren auch nicht utopisch. Sie waren realistisch und machbar.
Die Story an sich war gut, zog sich aber auch an einem bestimmten Punkt etwas. Dazu kam, dass es mir wahnsinnig leid tat, wie Aisha versucht hat krampfhaft Jemand zu sein der sich eigentlich nicht ist. Tatsächlich gefühlt auch ohne es zu merken, dass es sich hier und da vielleicht falsch anfühlt. Dabei stößt sie ihre Wingmans teilweise leider auch vor den Kopf.
Aisha selbst fand ich direkt wahnsinnig sympathisch. Eine tolle junge Frau der es nicht leicht fällt, aus sich herauszukommen. Wad an ihren Wurzeln und wahrscheinlich auch an der finanziellen Situation liegt. Während fast alle Schüler ihrer Schule Geld haben, hat sie eine Stipendium. Weshalb sie noch verbissener kämpft die Beste zu sein.
Wie sie für das Essay ihre Komfortzone verlässt fand ich spannend zu verfolgen. Wie schon geschrieben, versucht sie immer das Beste aus sich herauszuholen und vergisst dabei leider auch, dass es da draußen noch mehr gibt. Das ein oder andere hat sie bereits verpasst, aber dafür ist ja in gewisser Weise jetzt auch das Manifest da.... und Quentin.
Quentin ist ein wahnsinnig lieber Typ und ich frage mich tatsächlich wie er nicht merken konnte, dass Aisha nicht die ist, die er eigentlich abholen sollte. Oder wollte er es vielleicht nicht merken?! Ihn mochte ich vom Fleck weg und seine ganze Art über die Story hinweg war einfach super.
Allgemein war die Lovestory geprägt von viel: Ich merk es nicht. Leider von Aishas Seite. Denn ich finde sowohl Brian, als auch Quentin waren was das angeht durchaus durchschaubar. Vermutlich deutet man aber die Zeichen einfach falsch, wenn man sich auf Jemand bestimmten eingeschossen hat.
Fazit
Alles in Allem eine tolle Story für Zwischendurch die mir gut gefallen hat. Manchmal ist es wichtig aus sich herauszukommen, aber man sollte darüber nie vergessen wer man eigentlich ist und was einen ausmacht. Ab und zu aus der Komfortzone raus ist Alles gut und schön, aber nicht nur um anderen zu gefallen. Das muss auch Aisha lernen. Was die Lovestory angeht konnte diese nur wenig überraschen, aber ganz süß gemacht war es trotzdem. Am Ende 3,5 Sterne
June 27, 2025
oh mine godddd!!!........This book was more than anything I have imagined....I am glad to the time I just buy this book for his creative cover....but the story was more amazing,captivating ,loving and marvellous. I just loved the characters Aisha,marcy,Seema and especially our Quentin.The slow-burn teenagers romance was so wholesome and lovely......I liked the part the author tried to bring out in books....The teenagers insecurities, anxiety, the continous thought of is they doing enough in life,is everything correct,always getting stressed up for future,and the most important message that life doesn't always respond to the way we thought and process....but there is a beauty in that too....to as we discover a lot of things in god decisions for us....And no matter what happens it always happen for our good........And for the plot of the story I have read many romance novels but this novel plot was on another level....from getting stand up from crush on winter formal ,to hijacking somebody car,than being friends with that person, helping each other, disappointment and at last from all trouble finally getting together.......As to the author salute to u mam.....Still be relieved if there were more dating movement of Aisha and Quentin....But although love the book!!
May 20, 2025
Cute YA story (with depth) about a senior stepping out of her comfort zone to actually have something to write about in a college essay.
I love Quinten. The MC doesn't deserve him lol. And the Butterfly Effect is real.
The star taken off is because Aisha is a terrible friend. To everyone.
Read by Nikhaar Kishnani. #booksin25
I love Quinten. The MC doesn't deserve him lol. And the Butterfly Effect is real.
The star taken off is because Aisha is a terrible friend. To everyone.
Read by Nikhaar Kishnani. #booksin25
August 30, 2024
Super süßes Jugendbuch. Der Schreibstil war super, nur hätte die Protagonistin gerne etwas früher ihren Kopf aus dem Hintern ziehen können 😂🙊
November 8, 2024
Cute but the high schoolers are so dumb… However it was fun but you knew what was going to happen the whole book
January 11, 2025
Crisp, witty, well-done. About HS seniors, but 7th to 9th is the sweet spot for readers. Good pick for Jenny Han readers or Sunny G’s Series of Rash Decisions.
July 3, 2025
Loved this book, I couldn’t put it down. The main character, Aisha was so lovable and relatable. Loved the characters, and ending!
September 3, 2025
I usually am not a fan of high-school romance books, so I'm surprised at how much I liked this one!
September 14, 2025
decent cutesy read
September 30, 2025
Why to have annotation that tells the entire plot of the book? I already knew what will happen almost from the beginning. The language is good and for the debut novel it's quite good read.
May 30, 2025
This one was a pleasure to read. There were some inconsistencies and I had a problem with the characters all having very similar voices, but as a debut novel it was nice and tightly-crafted, which has me looking forward to what the author comes out with next.
September 16, 2024
What first drew me to this book was the author's name and Indian background. Then the gorgeous cover came around and now that I am currently reading it, the story itself.
I love that the narrative has a perfect balance of youthfulness yet maturity. The pacing is well done keeping you immersed in wanting to read more. The inclusion of conversational Hindi, Hindu and European religious beliefs, cuisines and the insecurities that come with were all well thought out and articulated.
The sticky note manifesto is such a unique, motivational and fun idea that you can't help but think of what you would put on your own manifesto. The idea that you don'/ have to do anything alone makes the protagonist and reader braver, more courageous and hopeful that they can achieve the impossible (to them).
I would highly recommend this gorgeous piece of artwork and storytelling to young adults and even junior college/university studies. Go out there, take a risk and see what the outcome is. You may end up enjoying it. ❤️
Many special thanks to @epicreads for a gifted copy! 🙏✨️
I love that the narrative has a perfect balance of youthfulness yet maturity. The pacing is well done keeping you immersed in wanting to read more. The inclusion of conversational Hindi, Hindu and European religious beliefs, cuisines and the insecurities that come with were all well thought out and articulated.
The sticky note manifesto is such a unique, motivational and fun idea that you can't help but think of what you would put on your own manifesto. The idea that you don'/ have to do anything alone makes the protagonist and reader braver, more courageous and hopeful that they can achieve the impossible (to them).
I would highly recommend this gorgeous piece of artwork and storytelling to young adults and even junior college/university studies. Go out there, take a risk and see what the outcome is. You may end up enjoying it. ❤️
Many special thanks to @epicreads for a gifted copy! 🙏✨️
September 24, 2024
ambika vohra just reminded me why i love coming of age stories!! full review to come
EDIT: 9/23/24
I just remembered that I never shared my full review here lol
I had so much fun reading this book! The Never Have I Ever vibes? They were absolutely there. I was giggling at certain parts, and I really wished to see it on my screen too as I was imagining the scenes. I think it’d be such a fun limited series! (Or maybe not limited since I’d totally be interested in seeing Aisha navigate the rest of senior year!)
We really see Aisha grow, and through her character, we see how tough it is being a person of color growing up in a predominantly white area, as well as being of a different socioeconomic status. So often, she felt embarrassed by her Indian heritage and her home, wanting to hide it. She was also worried about things like acne, her college application, and her long-time crush. Honestly, she felt incredibly relatable at times.
She was very focused on what she thought she should want to have instead of considering if she really wanted to do those things. This felt so relatable because I know that I wondered at certain points if I was missing out since I didn’t do some of the “typical high school” stuff, only to now realize that some of those things aren’t what I would have enjoyed anyways. Her mission was to get out of her comfort zone, but who gets to decide what that should be? There are other ways to be brave, and there are other ways to feel satisfied with life, and I really like how Aisha learned that throughout the book. She isn’t perfect, but she’s trying her best, and you’ll be rooting for her as she goes on this journey!
Now, Aisha and Quentin! The core of this book is definitely Aisha’s growth, and I love how the romance was done in a way that supported that. I absolutely loved the romance between these two! As a friends to lovers enthusiast, I love how they become such good friends before starting to see each other in a new light. Aisha feels comfortable around Quentin, which is one of the best feelings. Also, their banter!! It’s impossible to not want these two to be happy together! They’re very goofy with each other, but they’re also very honest (aside from admitting their feelings, that is). But Quentin isn’t only Aisha’s love interest/friend. He’s also going through his own journey, and it was great to see them help each other grow!
I really like that all the side characters were well-rounded characters. Her parents, her sister and her best friend, Marcy, are all very important to Aisha, but they also stand on their own as characters from what we learn about them. The same goes for Quentin, his mom and his grandfather.
Overall, this is a wonderful debut with a lot of heart and humor! It reminds me why I love coming of age stories, and I can’t wait to read more from Ambika Vohra!
EDIT: 9/23/24
I just remembered that I never shared my full review here lol
I had so much fun reading this book! The Never Have I Ever vibes? They were absolutely there. I was giggling at certain parts, and I really wished to see it on my screen too as I was imagining the scenes. I think it’d be such a fun limited series! (Or maybe not limited since I’d totally be interested in seeing Aisha navigate the rest of senior year!)
We really see Aisha grow, and through her character, we see how tough it is being a person of color growing up in a predominantly white area, as well as being of a different socioeconomic status. So often, she felt embarrassed by her Indian heritage and her home, wanting to hide it. She was also worried about things like acne, her college application, and her long-time crush. Honestly, she felt incredibly relatable at times.
She was very focused on what she thought she should want to have instead of considering if she really wanted to do those things. This felt so relatable because I know that I wondered at certain points if I was missing out since I didn’t do some of the “typical high school” stuff, only to now realize that some of those things aren’t what I would have enjoyed anyways. Her mission was to get out of her comfort zone, but who gets to decide what that should be? There are other ways to be brave, and there are other ways to feel satisfied with life, and I really like how Aisha learned that throughout the book. She isn’t perfect, but she’s trying her best, and you’ll be rooting for her as she goes on this journey!
Now, Aisha and Quentin! The core of this book is definitely Aisha’s growth, and I love how the romance was done in a way that supported that. I absolutely loved the romance between these two! As a friends to lovers enthusiast, I love how they become such good friends before starting to see each other in a new light. Aisha feels comfortable around Quentin, which is one of the best feelings. Also, their banter!! It’s impossible to not want these two to be happy together! They’re very goofy with each other, but they’re also very honest (aside from admitting their feelings, that is). But Quentin isn’t only Aisha’s love interest/friend. He’s also going through his own journey, and it was great to see them help each other grow!
I really like that all the side characters were well-rounded characters. Her parents, her sister and her best friend, Marcy, are all very important to Aisha, but they also stand on their own as characters from what we learn about them. The same goes for Quentin, his mom and his grandfather.
Overall, this is a wonderful debut with a lot of heart and humor! It reminds me why I love coming of age stories, and I can’t wait to read more from Ambika Vohra!
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