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Enemies to Lovers
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From the author of Partners in Crime, comes a sparkling new adventure rom-com where a con woman and a lawman team up on an epic cross-country road trip to save their families…and each other.
Sejal Chaudhary inherited her mama’s calculating brain, her daddy’s quick fingers, and the boatload of trauma that comes with being the eldest daughter of criminals. Although Sejal has never claimed to be a good girl, she’s spent the last couple years laying low and going (mostly) straight. That is, until a con gone wrong sends her into the arms of a handsome stranger who’s set on dragging her back into her messy family drama.
Krish Anand never mastered the fine art of being a bad boy…he would take a book over bullets any day. But when his FBI agent brother goes missing, he has no choice but to suit up for the adventure of a lifetime. Certain that someone in Sejal’s little crime family is behind the disappearance, a desperate Krish manages to convince the beautiful thief that his brother’s badge is actually his.
The deal is simple: help him find his brother, and Krish and the law will leave Sejal be. With an up-to-no-good ex also hot on her trail, Sejal reluctantly agrees. As they wind their way across the country on planes, buses, and automobiles, sparks ignite, and what began as a fragile temporary truce starts to look more and more like a partnership.
Falling for the enemy? So cliche, but so good…if only they can survive long enough to chance a happily ever after.
TROPES
Enemies-to-Lovers
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Love
Adventure Rom-Com
Sejal Chaudhary inherited her mama’s calculating brain, her daddy’s quick fingers, and the boatload of trauma that comes with being the eldest daughter of criminals. Although Sejal has never claimed to be a good girl, she’s spent the last couple years laying low and going (mostly) straight. That is, until a con gone wrong sends her into the arms of a handsome stranger who’s set on dragging her back into her messy family drama.
Krish Anand never mastered the fine art of being a bad boy…he would take a book over bullets any day. But when his FBI agent brother goes missing, he has no choice but to suit up for the adventure of a lifetime. Certain that someone in Sejal’s little crime family is behind the disappearance, a desperate Krish manages to convince the beautiful thief that his brother’s badge is actually his.
The deal is simple: help him find his brother, and Krish and the law will leave Sejal be. With an up-to-no-good ex also hot on her trail, Sejal reluctantly agrees. As they wind their way across the country on planes, buses, and automobiles, sparks ignite, and what began as a fragile temporary truce starts to look more and more like a partnership.
Falling for the enemy? So cliche, but so good…if only they can survive long enough to chance a happily ever after.
TROPES
Enemies-to-Lovers
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Love
Adventure Rom-Com
384 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 7, 2026
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December 7, 2025
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January 7, 2026
Book Riot’s Most Anticipated Books of 2026:
Once upon a time, we were blessed with at least one Alisha Rai book per year, but she took a break to like…grow a human, so I understand not also giving birth to another amazing book. Enemies to Lovers is another adventure romance following the events of Partners in Crime that includes a road trip, some Big Secrets, and two really smart people who don’t want to put up with the other’s crap. Alisha Rai is one of those people who is somehow good at both intense emotional drama and slapstick comedy, so I’m excited to see how she continues the criminal rom-com genre that she is currently queen of. —Jessica Pryde
Once upon a time, we were blessed with at least one Alisha Rai book per year, but she took a break to like…grow a human, so I understand not also giving birth to another amazing book. Enemies to Lovers is another adventure romance following the events of Partners in Crime that includes a road trip, some Big Secrets, and two really smart people who don’t want to put up with the other’s crap. Alisha Rai is one of those people who is somehow good at both intense emotional drama and slapstick comedy, so I’m excited to see how she continues the criminal rom-com genre that she is currently queen of. —Jessica Pryde
September 22, 2025
Review to come, thank you NetGalley!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thank you so much Netgalley and harpercollins for this advanced copy 🤘
Okay, this book was Soo much better than I anticipated it would be!
I loved Krish and Sejal. I loved their unique backgrounds and how they ended up falling for each other basically the moment they met, even if they were both too stubborn to admit it until the end.
This book was so action-packed, you think one thing was going to happen, and something completely different ends up taking place, and I LOVED IT. I don't even know how to properly summarize all of the things that happened in this book because there was just so much.
I absolutely loved seeing Sejal evolve into a woman she saw as deserving of love and acceptance. And I loved how Krish was the one who helped her see that.
I also really enjoyed that Mira and Sejal finally were able to see each other again and rekindle their relationship, and that Sejal got to meet her niece 🥹
I really, really enjoyed this book and I would highly recommend it.
Okay, this book was Soo much better than I anticipated it would be!
I loved Krish and Sejal. I loved their unique backgrounds and how they ended up falling for each other basically the moment they met, even if they were both too stubborn to admit it until the end.
This book was so action-packed, you think one thing was going to happen, and something completely different ends up taking place, and I LOVED IT. I don't even know how to properly summarize all of the things that happened in this book because there was just so much.
I absolutely loved seeing Sejal evolve into a woman she saw as deserving of love and acceptance. And I loved how Krish was the one who helped her see that.
I also really enjoyed that Mira and Sejal finally were able to see each other again and rekindle their relationship, and that Sejal got to meet her niece 🥹
I really, really enjoyed this book and I would highly recommend it.
December 20, 2025
📚Enemies to Lovers
✍🏻Alisha Rai
Blurb:
From the author of Partners in Crime, comes a sparkling new adventure rom-com where a con woman and a lawman team up on an epic cross-country road trip to save their families…and each other.
Sejal Chaudhary inherited her mama’s calculating brain, her daddy’s quick fingers, and the boatload of trauma that comes with being the eldest daughter of criminals. Although Sejal has never claimed to be a good girl, she’s spent the last couple years laying low and going (mostly) straight. That is, until a con gone wrong sends her into the arms of a handsome stranger who’s set on dragging her back into her messy family drama.
Krish Anand never mastered the fine art of being a bad boy…he would take a book over bullets any day. But when his FBI agent brother goes missing, he has no choice but to suit up for the adventure of a lifetime. Certain that someone in Sejal’s little crime family is behind the disappearance, a desperate Krish manages to convince the beautiful thief that his brother’s badge is actually his.
The deal is simple: help him find his brother, and Krish and the law will leave Sejal be. With an up-to-no-good ex also hot on her trail, Sejal reluctantly agrees. As they wind their way across the country on planes, buses, and automobiles, sparks ignite, and what began as a fragile temporary truce starts to look more and more like a partnership.
Falling for the enemy? So cliche, but so good…if only they can survive long enough to chance a happily ever after.
TROPES
Enemies-to-Lovers
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Love
Adventure Rom-Com
My Thoughts:
Enemies to Lovers by Alisha Rai is a fun addition to the crime-action universe first introduced in Rai's novel Partners in Crime. Full of unsolved and unfolding mysteries, tense action, and emotional moments interspersed with cameos and humor, follow Sejal and Krish as they learn truths about themselves and each other in a race against time. Sejal is sharp, scrappy, and carrying a lifetime of family-made chaos on her shoulders. She’s not trying to be anyone’s idea of good but she is trying and that tension between who she’s been raised to be and who she wants to become gives her character real weight. Krish Anand: bookish, principled, and deeply out of his element, which somehow makes him the perfect counterbalance for Sejal. The man would rather discuss novels than navigate a con, yet here he is, pretending to flash a badge and diving headfirst into danger for the sake of his brother.. I highly recommend this book add it to your TBR list
Thanks NetGalley, Avon Publishing and Author Alisha Rai for the advanced copy of "Enemies to Lovers" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#AvonPublishing
#AlishaRai
#EnemiestoLovers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Alisha Rai
Blurb:
From the author of Partners in Crime, comes a sparkling new adventure rom-com where a con woman and a lawman team up on an epic cross-country road trip to save their families…and each other.
Sejal Chaudhary inherited her mama’s calculating brain, her daddy’s quick fingers, and the boatload of trauma that comes with being the eldest daughter of criminals. Although Sejal has never claimed to be a good girl, she’s spent the last couple years laying low and going (mostly) straight. That is, until a con gone wrong sends her into the arms of a handsome stranger who’s set on dragging her back into her messy family drama.
Krish Anand never mastered the fine art of being a bad boy…he would take a book over bullets any day. But when his FBI agent brother goes missing, he has no choice but to suit up for the adventure of a lifetime. Certain that someone in Sejal’s little crime family is behind the disappearance, a desperate Krish manages to convince the beautiful thief that his brother’s badge is actually his.
The deal is simple: help him find his brother, and Krish and the law will leave Sejal be. With an up-to-no-good ex also hot on her trail, Sejal reluctantly agrees. As they wind their way across the country on planes, buses, and automobiles, sparks ignite, and what began as a fragile temporary truce starts to look more and more like a partnership.
Falling for the enemy? So cliche, but so good…if only they can survive long enough to chance a happily ever after.
TROPES
Enemies-to-Lovers
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Love
Adventure Rom-Com
My Thoughts:
Enemies to Lovers by Alisha Rai is a fun addition to the crime-action universe first introduced in Rai's novel Partners in Crime. Full of unsolved and unfolding mysteries, tense action, and emotional moments interspersed with cameos and humor, follow Sejal and Krish as they learn truths about themselves and each other in a race against time. Sejal is sharp, scrappy, and carrying a lifetime of family-made chaos on her shoulders. She’s not trying to be anyone’s idea of good but she is trying and that tension between who she’s been raised to be and who she wants to become gives her character real weight. Krish Anand: bookish, principled, and deeply out of his element, which somehow makes him the perfect counterbalance for Sejal. The man would rather discuss novels than navigate a con, yet here he is, pretending to flash a badge and diving headfirst into danger for the sake of his brother.. I highly recommend this book add it to your TBR list
Thanks NetGalley, Avon Publishing and Author Alisha Rai for the advanced copy of "Enemies to Lovers" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#AvonPublishing
#AlishaRai
#EnemiestoLovers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Synopsis: We follow Sejal Chaudhary ( Mira’s sister) and Krish Anand in unlikely team up on a cross country road trip. This rom com/ on the road adventure is filled with family, danger, and of course romance.
-
We pick up 2 years after Partners in Crime following Sejal, Mira’s sister, and Krish Anand, FBI agent Avi Anand’s older brother. Sejal has been trying to maintain a low profile life. Which Krish disrupts when he unsuccessfully tries to kidnap her.
Krish’s brother Avi is being investigated for corruption and has mysterious disappeared. Everyone else seems to believe that Avi has runaway out of guilt. But Krish believes in his brother’s innocence and fears that the new head of Cobra has kidnapped his brother. He thinks that person is Aunt Rhea. He is trying to draw Rhea out by bringing Sejal to LA. Sejal has her own pursuits.
_
I came to enjoy the family humor near to the end. I think the emotional exploration is great. I really like going back to the moment Sejal came to Mira’s dorm from Sejal’s pov. I like unpacking her feelings from that experience. I think the book really considers what sacrifice, isolation and rejection weigh for eldest immigrant daughters. We also get lesson in imperfection and expectations on Krish’s end. It’s all very sweet. I think if you enjoyed book 1 this should be a fun mystery: the search for the Cobra’s leader and Rhea Aunty continues on.
Con: I think the story could be slowed down. The way we move through multiple genres shortens certain aspects that I would enjoy. I think tonally we’re thrown into this narrative around Sejal’s family and life that is very heavy right from the beginning. I like emotional exploration it’s a strong positive but I think this adds a tone that hard to cut through for lighter moments that lean on adventure.
Thank You Netgalley and Avon/ Harper Voyager for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for honest review.
-
We pick up 2 years after Partners in Crime following Sejal, Mira’s sister, and Krish Anand, FBI agent Avi Anand’s older brother. Sejal has been trying to maintain a low profile life. Which Krish disrupts when he unsuccessfully tries to kidnap her.
Krish’s brother Avi is being investigated for corruption and has mysterious disappeared. Everyone else seems to believe that Avi has runaway out of guilt. But Krish believes in his brother’s innocence and fears that the new head of Cobra has kidnapped his brother. He thinks that person is Aunt Rhea. He is trying to draw Rhea out by bringing Sejal to LA. Sejal has her own pursuits.
_
I came to enjoy the family humor near to the end. I think the emotional exploration is great. I really like going back to the moment Sejal came to Mira’s dorm from Sejal’s pov. I like unpacking her feelings from that experience. I think the book really considers what sacrifice, isolation and rejection weigh for eldest immigrant daughters. We also get lesson in imperfection and expectations on Krish’s end. It’s all very sweet. I think if you enjoyed book 1 this should be a fun mystery: the search for the Cobra’s leader and Rhea Aunty continues on.
Con: I think the story could be slowed down. The way we move through multiple genres shortens certain aspects that I would enjoy. I think tonally we’re thrown into this narrative around Sejal’s family and life that is very heavy right from the beginning. I like emotional exploration it’s a strong positive but I think this adds a tone that hard to cut through for lighter moments that lean on adventure.
Thank You Netgalley and Avon/ Harper Voyager for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for honest review.
November 23, 2025
Enemies to Lovers by Alisha Rai was a perfect mix of romance and intrigue and swoon worthy and suspense filled tension. ( There is also a treat for readers of the Partners In Crime).
There is a road trip adventure with kidnapping thing that forced these two characters together, while allowing them to bond and really see each other.
The eldest sibling struggle was strong in the story but felt so genuine, ( OLDER SIBLING HERE!).
From New York to Wyoming, Sejal and Krish find themselves in an unlikely alliance as each resolves to locate his brother and tries to evade an ex-boyfriend.
Throughout this adventure, they not only find answers but they find themselves and each other. Allowing them to heal and accept themselves because they can be so open with each other.
The characters are beautifully flawed and constantly trying to prove herself and that she's better than her predecessors while trying to **find her own way** (Insert my Huntrix singing voice here). Krish wants to be seen as capable just how he is. They sort of mirror each other, showing the other what they need to see within themselves.
This is a must-read for any Alisha Rai fan and lover of Partners In Crime.
I recommend this book to all the romcom lovers out there . This is a wild ride.
Thanks to Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the gifted eARC.
There is a road trip adventure with kidnapping thing that forced these two characters together, while allowing them to bond and really see each other.
The eldest sibling struggle was strong in the story but felt so genuine, ( OLDER SIBLING HERE!).
From New York to Wyoming, Sejal and Krish find themselves in an unlikely alliance as each resolves to locate his brother and tries to evade an ex-boyfriend.
Throughout this adventure, they not only find answers but they find themselves and each other. Allowing them to heal and accept themselves because they can be so open with each other.
The characters are beautifully flawed and constantly trying to prove herself and that she's better than her predecessors while trying to **find her own way** (Insert my Huntrix singing voice here). Krish wants to be seen as capable just how he is. They sort of mirror each other, showing the other what they need to see within themselves.
This is a must-read for any Alisha Rai fan and lover of Partners In Crime.
I recommend this book to all the romcom lovers out there . This is a wild ride.
Thanks to Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the gifted eARC.
November 29, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyagers for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Picks up after Partners in Crime. Didnt realize it was connected to that world since I read that book a year ago or so, but was here for it! This one focuses on the older Chaudhary sister (Sejal) and we get to know her more from the previous book where we met her mainly in her kidnapping. Enjoyed reading about a more misfit/mischievous sister compared to Mira. Enjoyed seeing the relationship unfold between Sejal and our golden retriever mmc, Krish. A bit of a quick burn in the sense of immediate attraction but still enjoyed the growing they did together and the process of uncovering the secrets and hidden aspects of their identities. We get to see some beloved family members again and meet some new ones who are immediately added to the favorites list. Overall a fun quick read with great constantly moving pacing from the get go. Oh, and of course, Rai always has some good spicy scenes.
Picks up after Partners in Crime. Didnt realize it was connected to that world since I read that book a year ago or so, but was here for it! This one focuses on the older Chaudhary sister (Sejal) and we get to know her more from the previous book where we met her mainly in her kidnapping. Enjoyed reading about a more misfit/mischievous sister compared to Mira. Enjoyed seeing the relationship unfold between Sejal and our golden retriever mmc, Krish. A bit of a quick burn in the sense of immediate attraction but still enjoyed the growing they did together and the process of uncovering the secrets and hidden aspects of their identities. We get to see some beloved family members again and meet some new ones who are immediately added to the favorites list. Overall a fun quick read with great constantly moving pacing from the get go. Oh, and of course, Rai always has some good spicy scenes.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A fun, sexy rom-com that satisfies a lot of what I wanted from Rai's writing, even though it didn't quite reach previous heights for me. I loved the chemistry between Sejal and Krish from the jump, including the stakes that forced them into a spontaneous road trip with each other, but it felt like he held onto the lie about his real identity a little too long. That's not necessarily a trope that I mind in a romance until real physical intimacy becomes a factor, and then it starts to veer into uncomfy territory for me. It also felt like the narrative became a bit overwhelmed with so many side characters and different threats at the very end, but ultimately this was a diverting romp that peppered in just the right amount of suspense and romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this edition from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this edition from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stolen Rolex stars)
Oh, how I wish this had been the first book I read in 2026.
This story gave me How to Steal a Million vibes—but with diverse characters and a refreshingly original premise. It was such a welcome break from the endless fake-dating/alpha-male/shifter tropes dominating the shelves right now.
While I did figure out parts of the plot fairly early, there were enough twists and surprises to keep me fully engaged. And best of all? There’s an actual plot—not just pages and pages of smut (no judgment, sometimes that’s the mood, but sometimes you want story and substance).
I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll just say this: pick up this book. You won’t be disappointed.
Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC!
Oh, how I wish this had been the first book I read in 2026.
This story gave me How to Steal a Million vibes—but with diverse characters and a refreshingly original premise. It was such a welcome break from the endless fake-dating/alpha-male/shifter tropes dominating the shelves right now.
While I did figure out parts of the plot fairly early, there were enough twists and surprises to keep me fully engaged. And best of all? There’s an actual plot—not just pages and pages of smut (no judgment, sometimes that’s the mood, but sometimes you want story and substance).
I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll just say this: pick up this book. You won’t be disappointed.
Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC!
November 26, 2025
Enemies to Lovers takes the classic trope and spins it into a fast-paced, heart-thumping adventure rom-com that’s fun and unexpectedly tender. It’s got all the ingredients I love—forced proximity, high-stakes shenanigans, and a slow burn that smolders from the very first clash—and it delivers them with charm and just enough emotional bite to keep you invested beyond the banter.
From the jump, Sejal Chaudhary is a standout. She’s sharp, scrappy, and carrying a lifetime of family-made chaos on her shoulders. She’s not trying to be anyone’s idea of “good,” but she is trying—and that tension between who she’s been raised to be and who she wants to become gives her character real weight. Enter Krish Anand: bookish, principled, and deeply out of his element, which somehow makes him the perfect counterbalance for Sejal. The man would rather discuss novels than navigate a con, yet here he is, pretending to flash a badge and diving headfirst into danger for the sake of his brother.
Their dynamic works because it feels earned. The chemistry doesn’t rely on quips alone—though the quips are delightful—but on two people forced into tight quarters, long travel days, and conversations they never meant to have. The slow burn here is honestly chef’s kiss: steady, believable, and full of those small, charged moments that hit harder precisely because neither of them planned to care. Watching their enemies-to-reluctant-allies-to-I’d-die-for-you progression unfold across buses, cars, and backroads is genuinely satisfying.
And for all the adrenaline and antics, the story still manages to sneak in some emotional resonance—family wounds, trust issues, and the fear of not being enough. Those touches make the eventual softness between Sejal and Krish feel grounded rather than sudden.
This was a really fun, surprisingly touching ride from start to finish. Believable chemistry, a sizzling slow burn, and an absolutely perfect title for what the story delivers.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 enthusiastic stars)
#EnemiestoLovers
#NetGalley
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
From the jump, Sejal Chaudhary is a standout. She’s sharp, scrappy, and carrying a lifetime of family-made chaos on her shoulders. She’s not trying to be anyone’s idea of “good,” but she is trying—and that tension between who she’s been raised to be and who she wants to become gives her character real weight. Enter Krish Anand: bookish, principled, and deeply out of his element, which somehow makes him the perfect counterbalance for Sejal. The man would rather discuss novels than navigate a con, yet here he is, pretending to flash a badge and diving headfirst into danger for the sake of his brother.
Their dynamic works because it feels earned. The chemistry doesn’t rely on quips alone—though the quips are delightful—but on two people forced into tight quarters, long travel days, and conversations they never meant to have. The slow burn here is honestly chef’s kiss: steady, believable, and full of those small, charged moments that hit harder precisely because neither of them planned to care. Watching their enemies-to-reluctant-allies-to-I’d-die-for-you progression unfold across buses, cars, and backroads is genuinely satisfying.
And for all the adrenaline and antics, the story still manages to sneak in some emotional resonance—family wounds, trust issues, and the fear of not being enough. Those touches make the eventual softness between Sejal and Krish feel grounded rather than sudden.
This was a really fun, surprisingly touching ride from start to finish. Believable chemistry, a sizzling slow burn, and an absolutely perfect title for what the story delivers.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 enthusiastic stars)
#EnemiestoLovers
#NetGalley
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a cute story with funny characters, but I really struggled with the FMC. I strongly dislike close-up magic and card tricks, and Sejal's whole thing is that she's an illusionist. I likely would not have read this book if that had been mentioned anywhere in the description. That being said, this was a great forced proximity story where everyone is lying about everything. The plot was fun and the characters were interesting, but there wasn't as much background since this isn't the first book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Avon, and Alisha Rai for the free eARC.
Thank you to NetGalley, Avon, and Alisha Rai for the free eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
So. Much. Fun. Alisha Rai is so good with fun plots and tension filled romance and this one with a con woman/magician and a purported G Man, doesn't disappoint. This is the continuation of Partners in Crime but can be read totally as a standalone. There was one part I found particularly funny involving the story of a tiger and a bunny. International crime, multiple mob families and sleight of hand tricks made this into a one day read. I really hope there is a third installment with this family.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
November 24, 2025
Alisha Rai is literally the reason I started reading romance again. Her Forbidden Hearts series reignited my love for the genre, and she consistently delivers books I absolutely adore. Enemies to Lovers is so different and fun, full of wit and chemistry, but my only critique is that I wanted a bit more at the ending—it left me wanting just a little extra closure.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 12, 2025
I thought this book was so much fun! I loved that they both didn't "exactly" let on to who they were or what they needed from another, but it came out naturally as they got closer and closer. Sejal and Krish both had so much baggage, but they were used to shouldering it on their own, not opening up to anyone, but this trip forced them to rely on one another and the way they fell for each other made me smile. I liked the bit of mystery in the book too. It kept it moving at a fast pace and it was easy to get caught up in the story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The overall vibe of this book was very Now You See Me coded. We’ve seen different variations of South Asian characters in romance (largely in a contemporary setting), but personally for me Enemies to Lovers along with Partners in Crime was the first time I personally read South Asian characters lead a romance-action/thriller genre.
It’s fresh and Alisha makes her characters complex with emotional layers.
So glad I got to read an early copy, review to come in 2026!
It’s fresh and Alisha makes her characters complex with emotional layers.
So glad I got to read an early copy, review to come in 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is pure chaos and I kinda love it! 😏 Avi's got a full car load of family baggage that she's done her best to leave in the past, but when Krish finds her things get complicated. Enemies to Lovers is definitely a thrilling read, that will pull you in from the start. Chapter 1. is WILD! 🫣 (It does take a minute to put all the pieces together when it comes to all the characters and how they intertwine, but worth it!)
*ARC review, all opinions are my own*
*ARC review, all opinions are my own*
December 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for granting my request to read this e-ARC and provide my honest opinion.
I went into this book completely blind (and that’s my fault because I didn’t even read the synopsis when I requested it on NetGalley 😅). So I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered that this wasn’t just the usual “enemies to lovers” plot as I’ve come to know it.
Meet Sejal Chaudhary, the eldest daughter of thieving parents (and no, I don’t mean that in a funny way—her parents, both mom and dad, are thieves, criminals, con men… choose a word and run with it).
Sejal runs into Krish in a bar after a con goes sideways. She has Krish pretending to be her boyfriend so she can escape the guy she conned, and here’s where things get crazyyy… Krish has been trailing her this whole time. Krish knew she would be in that bar. Krish wants to use her (as bait!) to get his FBI-agent brother back from the cabal “Cobra” that took him—the same cabal Sejal’s mother headed before she went to prison. But what Krish didn’t anticipate is how strongly he would be attracted to this “so-called” criminal, Sejal.
I loved the craziness of Sejal’s and Krish’s family dynamics. I was on my toes through every drama and absurd thing that happened. Everything might be going sideways, assassins and mafia members might be trying to kill or kidnap them, but one thing was certain: Sejal and Krish only had eyes for each other. Their attraction was solid! Who would have thought a con woman and a man on the straight and narrow would be good for each other 😅.
Overall, this was a good read. I loved the attraction between our MCs, I loved the family dynamics displayed, and while this book was fun to read, please take care while reading as it does touch on parental neglect, PTSD, corruption in law enforcement, and death of a parent (off page).
Thank you once again for the e-ARC.
I went into this book completely blind (and that’s my fault because I didn’t even read the synopsis when I requested it on NetGalley 😅). So I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered that this wasn’t just the usual “enemies to lovers” plot as I’ve come to know it.
Meet Sejal Chaudhary, the eldest daughter of thieving parents (and no, I don’t mean that in a funny way—her parents, both mom and dad, are thieves, criminals, con men… choose a word and run with it).
Sejal runs into Krish in a bar after a con goes sideways. She has Krish pretending to be her boyfriend so she can escape the guy she conned, and here’s where things get crazyyy… Krish has been trailing her this whole time. Krish knew she would be in that bar. Krish wants to use her (as bait!) to get his FBI-agent brother back from the cabal “Cobra” that took him—the same cabal Sejal’s mother headed before she went to prison. But what Krish didn’t anticipate is how strongly he would be attracted to this “so-called” criminal, Sejal.
I loved the craziness of Sejal’s and Krish’s family dynamics. I was on my toes through every drama and absurd thing that happened. Everything might be going sideways, assassins and mafia members might be trying to kill or kidnap them, but one thing was certain: Sejal and Krish only had eyes for each other. Their attraction was solid! Who would have thought a con woman and a man on the straight and narrow would be good for each other 😅.
Overall, this was a good read. I loved the attraction between our MCs, I loved the family dynamics displayed, and while this book was fun to read, please take care while reading as it does touch on parental neglect, PTSD, corruption in law enforcement, and death of a parent (off page).
Thank you once again for the e-ARC.
December 17, 2025
Thank you for the chance to arc this read!!! I really enjoyed this. It was quick, cutie, and full of tension. The characters are just the right amount of frustrating and I couldn’t wait to see how it progressed the entire time.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A sequel to "Partners in Crime", following Mira's elder sister Sejal on her own action and romance packed adventure. Similar to Mira, Sejal ends up on an adventure with an unconventional partner.
It's a good light read with some great twists.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC.
It's a good light read with some great twists.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Read this one in one sitting! I loved the adventurous plot, and how their separate reasons to run converged along the way. This was witty, cute, and such a fun enemies to lovers romance!
November 20, 2025
If you haven’t already, go ahead and add Alisha Rai to your auto-buy author list now!
PARTNERS IN CRIME was one of my favorite reads of the year back in 2023. Mira and Naveen captured my heart immediately with their wit and charm. So, needless to say, I was THRILLED when I found out there was a follow-up all about Mira’s big sister, Sejal.
Just like with PARTNERS IN CRIME, Rai delivers the perfect mix of romance and intrigue with ENEMIES TO LOVERS, filling the pages with both swoonable and suspenseful moments. (Plus appearances by Mira & Naveen, for all the fellow PIC lovers)
She gifts us with characters who are beautifully flawed, trying to prove themselves in situations where they’ve been boxed in. Sejal wants to show that she is better than those who came before her, and to find her own path away from familial complications. Krish needs people to see that he is strong in his own ways, and how that makes him uniquely capable. They hold up mirrors, each helping the other to see themselves through their eyes.
On this fantastic journey, they find answers. They find each other. And they find themselves.
A few specific highlights for me were the relationship between Ken and Sejal, the open communication between Krish and Sejal after Krish’s confession, and the inner thoughts that gave us more insight into our MCs.
A must-read for any Alisha Rai fan, but also for any and all other romcom lovers out there. This wild ride is absolutely worth taking.
PARTNERS IN CRIME was one of my favorite reads of the year back in 2023. Mira and Naveen captured my heart immediately with their wit and charm. So, needless to say, I was THRILLED when I found out there was a follow-up all about Mira’s big sister, Sejal.
Just like with PARTNERS IN CRIME, Rai delivers the perfect mix of romance and intrigue with ENEMIES TO LOVERS, filling the pages with both swoonable and suspenseful moments. (Plus appearances by Mira & Naveen, for all the fellow PIC lovers)
She gifts us with characters who are beautifully flawed, trying to prove themselves in situations where they’ve been boxed in. Sejal wants to show that she is better than those who came before her, and to find her own path away from familial complications. Krish needs people to see that he is strong in his own ways, and how that makes him uniquely capable. They hold up mirrors, each helping the other to see themselves through their eyes.
On this fantastic journey, they find answers. They find each other. And they find themselves.
A few specific highlights for me were the relationship between Ken and Sejal, the open communication between Krish and Sejal after Krish’s confession, and the inner thoughts that gave us more insight into our MCs.
A must-read for any Alisha Rai fan, but also for any and all other romcom lovers out there. This wild ride is absolutely worth taking.
November 5, 2025
90's action film flick fan? Specifically, an "Out of Sight" and "Bird on a Wire" fan ?
This book's got the similar vibes of action and light mystery ,
From New York to Wyoming, Sejal and Krish find themselves in an unlikely alliance as each resolves to locate (his quest) brother and tries to evade an ex-boyfriend (her dilemma).
There are several twists in the story and the reader moves along as they travel the country uncovering clues. Where it felt a bit off is when the two characters would get together. Their physical attraction to each other is undeniable as is their emotional connection. But when they finally indulge (especially in the latter part of the book-last two encounters), it felt like their coming together interrupted the flow of the story rather than being a part of it.
On the flip side, this author breathes light into the still lacking romance genre of featuring multi-cultural characters. Added bonus is that these characters are not cookie cutters ones ie. requisite professionals (ie. engineer ,doctor, lawyer) in their field (albeit, Krish carrying the Ivy League credentials).
It's also not a standalone but author does good job. The reader can definitely tackle the book without reading the first in the series.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Avon and Harper Voyager | Avon via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#EnemiestoLovers #NetGalley
This book's got the similar vibes of action and light mystery ,
From New York to Wyoming, Sejal and Krish find themselves in an unlikely alliance as each resolves to locate (his quest) brother and tries to evade an ex-boyfriend (her dilemma).
There are several twists in the story and the reader moves along as they travel the country uncovering clues. Where it felt a bit off is when the two characters would get together. Their physical attraction to each other is undeniable as is their emotional connection. But when they finally indulge (especially in the latter part of the book-last two encounters), it felt like their coming together interrupted the flow of the story rather than being a part of it.
On the flip side, this author breathes light into the still lacking romance genre of featuring multi-cultural characters. Added bonus is that these characters are not cookie cutters ones ie. requisite professionals (ie. engineer ,doctor, lawyer) in their field (albeit, Krish carrying the Ivy League credentials).
It's also not a standalone but author does good job. The reader can definitely tackle the book without reading the first in the series.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Avon and Harper Voyager | Avon via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#EnemiestoLovers #NetGalley
November 15, 2025
This is incredible! Hooked from the first chapter. Super unexpected because I was thinking this was going to go a completely different direction but I absolutely loved it! I loved following Sejal in all her adventures. The Desi culture in the story was amazing. Loved every page of it!
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for the arc.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for the arc.
November 6, 2025
Sejal Chaudhary no es una chica buena y tampoco pretende serlo. Tras una vida marcada por secretos familiares, huídas constantes y un instinto infalible para detectar hombres terribles y sacarles dinero en apuestas, lo último que espera es que una noche cualquiera en un bar de Brooklyn cambie todo.
Cuando un desconocido peligroso la acosa, un hombre imponente aparece dispuesto a ayudarla. Krish es protector, misterioso y besa como si fuera la última noche del mundo. Pero lo que empieza como una chispa inesperada se convierte rápidamente en un choque explosivo: él no es un encuentro casual, sino un agente decidido a usarla para encontrar al nuevo líder del infame sindicato Cobra.
Sejal ha pasado su vida escapando de su pasado. Ahora tendrá que decidir si vuelve a huir o si enfrenta los fantasmas que la persiguen, incluso si eso significa colaborar con el hombre que la traicionó y que, peligrosamente, podría ser el único capaz de alcanzarla… incluso donde ella ha jurado que nadie volvería a entrar: su corazón.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Cuando un desconocido peligroso la acosa, un hombre imponente aparece dispuesto a ayudarla. Krish es protector, misterioso y besa como si fuera la última noche del mundo. Pero lo que empieza como una chispa inesperada se convierte rápidamente en un choque explosivo: él no es un encuentro casual, sino un agente decidido a usarla para encontrar al nuevo líder del infame sindicato Cobra.
Sejal ha pasado su vida escapando de su pasado. Ahora tendrá que decidir si vuelve a huir o si enfrenta los fantasmas que la persiguen, incluso si eso significa colaborar con el hombre que la traicionó y que, peligrosamente, podría ser el único capaz de alcanzarla… incluso donde ella ha jurado que nadie volvería a entrar: su corazón.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
November 7, 2025
This book is such a good time! I did read the previous book and enjoyed all the twists and turns of that chaotic adventure, so I knew I would be in for a fun time with this book and I was right! I loved the road trip/ adventure/ kidnapping aspect that forced these two unlikely characters together, while allowing them to bond and really see each other. The eldest sibling struggle was so strong in the story but felt so genuine, and I really liked the way that connected the FMC and MMC while allowing them to heal and accept themselves because they can be so open with each other. It’s not often I feel a condensed timeline like a road trip story really sets up a couple for lasting love but I really did feel these two found a home in each other throughout the journey. I also loved the return of all the crazy crime family business juxtaposed with Krish’s intelligence/fed family that really added to the chaos and the fun. So happy I got to read this book! ***ARC REVIEW VIA NETGALLEY ***
November 5, 2025
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Avon and Harper Voyager and Alisha Rai for sharing this ARC with me, in exchange for my honest review.
Enemies To Lovers is a great dual POV romance/thriller. Ms. Alisha weaves multiple genres together so eloquently. I couldn't hardly put this book down. The character development and world building is perfect
The flow is fast-paced, but not too much. I fell so in love with Krish and Sejal's chemistry.
I highly recommend that y'all get y'alls hands on this book.
Enemies To Lovers is a great dual POV romance/thriller. Ms. Alisha weaves multiple genres together so eloquently. I couldn't hardly put this book down. The character development and world building is perfect
The flow is fast-paced, but not too much. I fell so in love with Krish and Sejal's chemistry.
I highly recommend that y'all get y'alls hands on this book.
September 10, 2025
Original characters- Original story
Enemies to lovers, cross country road trip, one bed
Krish is so desperate to find his FBI agent brother that he assumes his identity to coerce Sejal to lead him to her family who Krish believes has masterminded his sudden disappearance.
While on the road, Sejal realizes her Russian mobster ex is on their tail.
They’re on the run towards her crime family and running away from the ex and his crime family minions.
It’s a complex plot but Alisha Rai expertly writes it into a page turner that’s hard to put down.
I’m delighted she’s written a fantastic suspenseful romance since I always recommend her Forbidden Hearts series; any author who can make a sexy book about rival grocery store families in the Midwest can make anything sexy.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Enemies to lovers, cross country road trip, one bed
Krish is so desperate to find his FBI agent brother that he assumes his identity to coerce Sejal to lead him to her family who Krish believes has masterminded his sudden disappearance.
While on the road, Sejal realizes her Russian mobster ex is on their tail.
They’re on the run towards her crime family and running away from the ex and his crime family minions.
It’s a complex plot but Alisha Rai expertly writes it into a page turner that’s hard to put down.
I’m delighted she’s written a fantastic suspenseful romance since I always recommend her Forbidden Hearts series; any author who can make a sexy book about rival grocery store families in the Midwest can make anything sexy.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2025
Enemies to Lovers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love the trend of combining genres-so fun to roll a thriller and romance together!
Sejal is a con artist on the run. After years of attempting to avoid her parents’ life of crime, she runs straight into a chase that has her finally catching up with the family she had lost track of.
Told from both Sejal’s and Krish’s perspectives, this was such a fun and fast-paced book. I loved the found family vibes!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love the trend of combining genres-so fun to roll a thriller and romance together!
Sejal is a con artist on the run. After years of attempting to avoid her parents’ life of crime, she runs straight into a chase that has her finally catching up with the family she had lost track of.
Told from both Sejal’s and Krish’s perspectives, this was such a fun and fast-paced book. I loved the found family vibes!
Want to read
August 15, 2025guys i thought this book would be about lesbians
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