If marriage isn’t in the immediate picture, what does Maya want to do with her life?
Maya Khan wants no part of an arranged marriage. Unfortunately, she makes this discovery on the day of her wedding. Panicking, sweating, and swearing simultaneously, Maya escapes out the back window, scales down her parent’s two story house in her big, flapping sari and lands on her best friend’s sofa.
In between working as a harem waitress, going back to college and finding out her new boyfriend is engaged to her arch rival from high school, she’s still trying to figure it all out...and having the time of her life.
Maya is supposed to get married but she is not on board. Can Maya make it on her own and what will she do? This book is about less than perfect characters that live their life. Maya and Angie have a strong female friendship that continues no matter what happens. Things are not perfect but they continue to be friends through it all. Maya is expected to do certain things because she is Indian but Maya does not want to. I love how the author brought in the culture and made me understand the culture and Maya. This is a rom-com by all accounts but there is more to it. The culture and strong female friendship is something I enjoyed about this book. If you love rom-coms with characters that are not perfect read this book.
You know that feeling when you are in a reading slump, don’t know why or how, and then suddenly you find a read that kicks you out of it? 𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘰 𝘌𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘦 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘏𝘪𝘨𝘩 𝘏𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘴 is THAT read.
The story follows the adventures of 26-year-old Maya Khan, who runs away on her wedding day—alone, in high heels, of course. She ends up crashing on the couch of her best friend, Angie, who has a boyfriend that Maya hates. Oh, did I mention her supposed boyfriend is married with a kid? So now Maya is out on her own, without a degree, a stable job, or a residence, and she keeps bumping into new problems every day. From being jobless and homeless to accidentally serving in a brothel, Maya has seen it all again and again thanks to her chaotic story.
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade—except Maya doesn’t know how to cook, so she ends up taking those lemons, squeezing them, and making a mess around her. While reading, I couldn’t stop face-palming and laughing, thinking, "Gurll, what?" Her story is whimsical, humorous, and full of witty sarcasm.
What I loved most about this book is that Maya doesn’t feel like a stranger while reading; her character will make you feel like her friend. Her point of view is really fun, showcasing the chaotic mess of a brown girl trying to find her way. It’s not a sappy love story where she meets and falls into a whirlwind romance—nope. She faces hardships in her own humorous way, learning to navigate her life in her style. Her friendship with Angie is the perfect example of women’s friendship, through thick and thin.
Personally, it gave me vibes of 𝘕𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘏𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘐 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳 and 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘚𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘢𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘤 , except Maya has her own original personality and unique story. The only downside of this book is that it ends. I didn’t want it to end; I felt Maya’s story doesn’t conclude here. The way she is, I’m sure she could easily use a sequel for her character! Lol I wanted Eddie to be more miserable I guess.
Overall, HTEAMHH is a delightful blend of sass, friendship, humor, and struggles told in a comedic way. I urge anyone who enjoys rom-coms and adult humor to read this book—you will not be disappointed.
P.S. Netflix, I urge you to PLEASE pick this story up; it deserves its own series!
I feel really bad about my feelings about this book. I bought it years ago from the author at her table at Printers Row Lit Fest, and really hate posting negative reviews of books. I think there is a way that this book could have worked for me, but there were too many things bringing it down and not enough lifting it up for me. Things I liked: - Diverse cast of characters - Almost an episodic TV plot with tons of different storylines - Some of the writer's voice - It takes place in Chicago! And acknowledges Gene and Jude's as the best place for hot dogs. - Journalism sub-plot However, the book has a lot of elements that make me really uncomfortable as a reader, and it feels very dated; Maya seems very much like the hot-mess-express FMC that was popular in the early 2000s, and it is a combination of grating, cringy, and "oh I think this could have been good except for ___". There's a lot of fat-shaming (Maya and Angie both make comments, including Maya calling herself "lard-ass"), Maya gleefully saying she can get a character gang-raped in prison as revenge, really shitty love interests (I don't like romances where I can't root for the MCs), multiple moments of cheating/adultery (including talking about how easy it would be to get an unhappy guy to dump his girlfriend), some queerphobic adjacent moments, more sexual harassment and blackmail, a Grey's Anatomy "choose me!" moment, and everything just feels really messy. And some parts don't seem logical (I know I felt like a nitpicker saying "There's not an Anderson's Bookshop in Oak Park" but towards the end there's a pregnant woman on very heavy pain medication to the point where she's deliriously high and it takes me out of the story even more because it doesn't seem like that's a real thing) and I don't want to judge an indie author too much (and I feel like that's all that I'm doing), but collectively it's a lot of dealbreakers for the book. It's messy, and not in a redeeming way, but in a "why is everyone low-key mean?" way.
Imagine you're getting married and your inner Geet wakes up suddenly on your wedding day and says, "Mai to bhaag rahi hu"🤣
What do you do when you realize marriage isn't in the immediate picture for you? For Maya Khan, the answer is simple– jump out of the window in her flapping saree and run away. On the very day of her arranged marriage, Maya panics, sweats, swears, and makes the boldest move of her life. From landing on her bestie's couch to working as a harem waitress, going back to school, and falling in love, Maya is just trying to figure it all out.. and honestly, she's having the time of her life while doing it.
Maya is sassy, classy, and unapologetically funny, but also deeply relatable. She don't just run away from her marriage–she runs toward her own identity. Through both her adventures and misadventures, she learns different lessons, meets new people, and most importantly, discovers herself. Her guts to defy expectations, going back to school, and taking control of her life teaches that education and independence are the most powerful weapons a woman can have today.
I totally enjoyed every second of this book. It's witty yet heartfelt and serious. Tanima Kazi once again shines with her writing and amazing characters. I love the girl friendships in her books. The short chapters made the book fast paced and kept me hooked. A special shout-out to Antoine who was the sweetest gentleman character❤
I recommend this book to every woman in her 20s (like me), still navigating life, chasing dreams instead of men, and learning to build her own path. Maya's story is both hilarious and inspiring. It reminds us that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is take off our heels, climb out of the window, and take the first step into our future. Everything will fall into place eventually after a lot of chaos, self-doubt, heartbreak, and hardwork.
This book was PURE CHAOS…and I loved every bit of it!
We start with Maya, a bride who literally bolts from her wedding in heels because she just cannot marry a stranger. From there, her life becomes this whirlwind of...runnjng away, toxic friendships, accidental run-ins with the police, messy crushes, almost-love stories, heartbreaks, shady jobs, newsroom scandals, and a whole lot of witty banter Basically, if life could throw a whole circus at someone, it threw it at Maya!!
Every time I thought things couldn’t possibly get worse, life hit Maya with another curveball. Honestly, it felt like the universe had her starring a reality show called "Let’s See How Much Drama One Can Handle"
But that’s exactly why it was so addictive The comedy in the chaos. The wild twists, the perfectly timed disasters, the sarcastic exchanges...all these had me laughing out loud while flipping pages like I was binging a netflix show! Angie & Maya’s friendship was pure chaos but also pure heart. Angie’s journey with Antonio (the ultimate green flag) was honestly so beautiful, it gave the story so much warmth amidst all the madness. And then there’s Eddie.Confusing, messy and the human embodiment of “right person, wrong time” .He had me screaming at the pages, frustrated but still invested in how it would all turn out.
This book is not neat or tidy & that’s what makes it so fun. It’s a full-on ride of laughter, frustration, "OH NO!! SHE DIDN’T" & "OMG SAME!" moments
Would I recommend? YESS, 100% yess Especially if you want a fast-paced, dramatic, witty and heart-squeezing read that feels like binge-watching an entire TV show in one sitting
If you love books where the MC is a hot mess but you root for her the whole way…this is for you. Think of it like a Bollywood drama meets rom-com meets survival story
Maya isn’t your typical rom-com heroine. She’s Indian, fiercely independent and utterly imperfect—and that’s exactly what makes her unforgettable. From dodging an arranged marriage to stumbling through wrong jobs, wrong places and wrong loves. She doubts and questions but never stop moving
Tamima Kazi’s novel is a wild, witty and emotionally raw ride through the life of a woman who refuses to shrink herself to fit tradition. From the first page, Maya stumbles, snaps and survives—with hennaed hands, aching feet and a voice that refuses to be silenced.
What sets this story apart isn’t just the romantic chaos—it’s the quiet power of female friendship. Maya and Angie’s connection reminds us that even when life unravels, some threads hold strong.Their conversation are raw,hilarious and healing.Together they remind us that sometimes, the bravest thing a woman can do is say “no” and mean it.
The author weaves cultural nuance with warmth and wit, letting us feel Maya’s resistance, her longing and her triumphs. It’s a fast-paced read with quirky charm and moments that make you cheer out loud—“Go Maya, go!” What makes this novel unforgettable isn’t just its premise.It beats with the rhythm of every woman who’s ever felt torn between heritage and hope, between being good and being free. It doesn’t offer easy answers but it does offer possibility. And in a world that often demands silence, this story dares to speak—boldly, beautifully and in heels. This story embrace imperfection, celebrate friendship and offer a dash of cultural spice. Maya Khan isn’t here to be graceful. She’s here to be honest. If you’ve ever felt like you were living someone else’s life, this book will feel like a mirror. It’s not about escaping a wedding—it’s about escaping the silence.
📖 👠How to Escape an Arranged Marriage in High Heels 👠 🧚🏻♀️Tanima Kazi
Have you ever read a book that is soo relatable yet fictional all the same that you just fall in love from the very first page ? This adorable little chaotic contemporary rom-com was that book for me !!
This fast paced standalone features the following TROPES : 👠 Contemporary Rom-com 💛 Single POV 👠 Sassy Relatable Strong Indian FMC 💛 Beautiful Female Friendships 👠 Self Discovery 💛 Family Drama 👠 Nerdy MMC 💛 South Asian Culture (from Samosas to Sarees )
The book started with the most relatable page I've ever read ! Having to pee but can't coz you are decked up in a saree and u don't know how to navigate? It's me ! Hi !
✨ From eloping an arranged marriage and a well planned coddled life to a journey of self-exploration which includes lots of mishaps and heartbreaks ✨ this book is an absolute MUST READ !
What I loved the most about the story was : 👠 Maya isn't a perfect FMC.. even though she has her flaws , she's sassy , fierce , independent , overcomes all the obstacles life throws at her on her own and is amazing friend to her bestie
💖 Angie is an incredible friend to Maya and is always there for her . And her love story is absolutely adorable 🥰
🪷 The desi vibes : IMMACULATE ♥️
Being a Romantasy reader, I didn't think I could love a contemporary book so much ! I ended up DEVOURING the entire book in less then a day ! I kept flipping pages and giggling and gasping throughout the book .
Thank you sooo much Tanima Kazi for sending me my first Physical ARC. This book will always hold a special place in my heart 💜
How to Escape an Arranged Marriage in High Heels is a enjoyable contemporary rom-com that focuses more on self-growth and friendship than the typical swoony love story. The book follows Maya Khan, a 26-year-old who runs away from her arranged marriage and ends up stumbling through one chaotic situation after another. From crashing at her best friend’s place to accidentally working in a brothel, Maya’s journey is messy, and very relatable. One of the best things about the book is how real and imperfect she feels as a character. She’s not always brave or smart type, but her sarcastic observations and honest reactions make her easy to connect with.
The author also handles cultural expectations very well. Maya’s Indian background is an important part of the story without overwhelming it. The pressure she feels to follow a proper path is portrayed realistically and adds depth to her decisions. Another strong element is the female friendship between Maya and Angie. Their bond carries the story and shows how supportive, sometimes brutally honest friendship can help someone grow.
The writing is light-hearted and fast-paced with a lot of witty dialogue and humorous moments. It’s the kind of book that’s easy to read in one sitting. Everything is perfect and enjoyable. In love ❤️
This book is a refreshing rom-com that balances humour, culture, and character development perfectly. It’s a great pick for anyone who likes realistic characters and a story that focuses on finding your own way rather than just falling in love. It's a Good Read for me❤️
How to Escape an Arranged Marriage in High Heels is one of those books that makes you smile, laugh & even think a little. It starts with Maya Khan running away from her own wedding in high heels because she cannot go through with an arranged marriage. But after the big escape, reality hits hard. She has no job, no home & no plan.
What follows is pure chaos & that is what makes the book so much fun. Maya’s life turns into a series of unpredictable and hilarious moments. She ends up crashing at her best friend Angie’s place, takes random jobs (including accidentally working in a brothel!) & even goes back to complete her education. Just when you think things are going well, something else goes wrong. But the best part is Maya never gives up. You keep cheering for her from start to finish.
I loved that Maya isn’t a perfect heroine. She is messy, confused & makes mistakes, but she feels real. She learns to handle things on her own. And honestly, that is refreshing.
The best part of this book is Maya and Angie’s friendship. It’s real, messy & full of those honest, funny conversations we all love. Angie is such a vibe, strong, independent & always in Maya’s corner.
The story also captures cultural pressure in a way that feels real, without making it heavy. It’s fast, witty, and so easy to read. But honestly, this isn’t just about ditching a wedding—it’s about figuring out who you are and living life on your own terms.
If you’re in the mood for a fun read with heart, humor, and characters that feel real, pick this one up.
The story follows Maya Khan, who literally runs away on her wedding day to escape an arranged marriage. But now she is jobless and homeless ( of course she didn’t think that far ahead 😅).
What I loved most is that Maya isn’t perfect—she’s flawed, messy, and confused, which makes her feel real. At some point, she’s relatable because all of us have been confused—whether about studies, career, marriage, or life itself.
Her journey is full of chaos, adventure, self-worth, and humor. Just when she think things are going fine, something goes hilariously wrong again—whether it’s accidentally working in a brothel, going back to complete her education, starting an internship, or falling for someone who is already engaged to her arch-rival 🤣🤣. But , Maya never gives up. You laugh, you feel for her, and you root for her .
💖 What I loved :
❣️that Maya isn’t rescued by an MMC—she finds her own strength.
❣️The beautiful friendship between Maya & Angie. Their bond is heartwarming, sweet, and supportive.
❣️Angie herself—independent, sassy, and fierce.
❣️Angie & Antoine’s little love story… it was absolutely adorable!
The writing style is easy to read, the pacing keeps you hooked, and every character—positive or negative is well-written.
Overall it’s a lighthearted romcom with the perfect mix of romance, female friendship, family drama, humor, and self-discovery.
At first, I thought this would be a typical “inspirational girl” story, but it turned out to be quite different and in a fun way.
Maya Khan, an Indian-origin girl living in America, runs away from her arranged marriage simply because she isn’t in love with her fiancé. She elopes in a very filmy style, and that’s where her chaotic yet entertaining journey begins. Maya isn’t the kind who’s serious about studies or future plans, but life soon hits her hard, and challenges keep piling up.
Reading her journey felt like watching a sitcom with drops of rom-com. Honestly, Maya reminded me of Jethalal - problems after problems! 😂 There were moments that made me laugh out loud, a few that melted my heart with their sweetness, and overall, it kept me hooked.
What stood out the most for me was Maya’s friendship with Angie. Angie and Antonie were such important parts of this ride, and I adored their presence in the story. Along with that, the author did a great job of portraying desi culture in its true sense. Surprisingly, she even slipped in a few inspirational quotes here and there, so unlike Maya, but they added depth.
The character growth was definitely one of the highlights, making the story not just fun but meaningful too.
This book is a quirky, fast paced rom-com about Maya, a 26 yqr old who literally runs away from her wedding in her heels and sequined sari. With no plan, no job, and no backup, she stumbles into a wild journey of figuring out who she really is and what she wants from life.
The story is funny, chaotic, and full of energy. Maya is messy but easy to root for, whether she’s sneaking her way into a journalism internship or just trying to survive the fallout of her bold escape. The supporting characters add color and humor, making the whole book feel like a rollercoaster of misadventures.
On the bright side, it’s entertaining, witty, and definitely not your typical arranged marriage story. There were moments that didn't land well. In Some sections Drama was over the top, but then that was the whole point. The dramatic chaos was beautifully presented making us laugh and enjoy.
It is light, bold, and slightly outrageous rom-coms with a heroine who isn’t afraid to break the rules, this book will be a fun ride. Don't go by the cover because this book is much more than just Escape and Arrange Marriage. The struggle is real. Definitely Recommended.
Tbh, when I first saw the title, I thought, Woww, this is crazy! 🤩 and it's really true. The story is about a 26-year-old girl named Maya, who on her wedding day, decides she can't go through with her arranged marriage. So, she runs away wearing a sari and high heels.
After that, her life becomes messy. She moves in with her best friend, works odd jobs, goes back to college, and tries to figure herself out. And that's what I loved about her, she's not perfect at all. She's complicated, makes mistakes, sometimes acts without thinking, but she's also strong, fun, and truly herself.
I also loved her friendship with Angie 🥹❤️ Honestly, it was one of my favorite parts. Angie is her safe place, her support, and it really showed how important female friendships are when everything is falling apart. The book also explores family pressures, traditions, and expectations.
Overall, this was a fun and exciting book with a heroine who is strong despite her flaws, and I loved it ❤️.
Okay, How to Escape an Arranged Marriage in High Heels is everything. Maya Khan is a hot mess in the best way possible,she runs away from her wedding in heels (I mean, iconic, right?), ends up crashing on her bestie Angie’s couch, and just… stumbles through life. Think jobless, homeless, and somehow working at a brothel? Yup. 😂
But it's not all chaos,Maya’s friendship with Angie is goals. It’s raw, hilarious, and real. These girls have each other's backs through all the drama and bad decisions. Add in some Indian cultural spice and a whole lot of laughs, and you've got a rom-com that's way more than just romance.
If you're into messy, funny, “I can’t believe this is happening” kind of stories, this one’s for you. It’s a rollercoaster, but you’ll love every second. Plus, the ending? Total cliffhanger,I need more Maya!