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Today I have a review of the highly-anticipated second novel from Helen Hoang, The Bride Test! It will be available from Berkley Books on Tuesday, May 7, 2019!

About the Book:

Khai Diep has no feelings. Well, he feels irritation when people move his things or contentment when ledgers balance down to the penny, but not big, important emotions—like grief. And love. He thinks he’s defective. His family knows better—that his autism means he just processes emotions differently. When he steadfastly avoids relationships, his mother takes matters into her own hands and returns to Vietnam to find him the perfect bride.

As a mixed-race girl living in the slums of Ho Chi Minh City, Esme Tran has always felt out of place. When the opportunity arises to come to America and meet a potential husband, she can’t turn it down, thinking this could be the break her family needs. Seducing Khai, however, doesn’t go as planned. Esme’s lessons in love seem to be working…but only on herself. She’s hopelessly smitten with a man who’s convinced he can never return her affection.

With Esme’s time in the United States dwindling, Khai is forced to understand he’s been wrong all along. And there’s more than one way to love.

My Thoughts:

Khai Diep has autism. He is worried he doesn’t “feel” enough. He thinks something is wrong with him, especially because he thinks he can’t feel love. 

His parents know this isn’t true. They know he simply processes emotions differently than others. Khai doesn’t believe them and continues to avoid relationships. Eventually, his mother travels to Vietnam to find Khai a wife. 

Esme Tran lives in a run-down area of Ho Chi Minh City. She is multi-racial, and that has made her feel out-of-place. 

When she learns she can travel to America and get married, she jumps at the chance. Esme falls for Khai, but winning him over isn’t easy. Her time-clock for staying in the US is running out, and she and Khai will face some big decisions about love. 

Ahh! I loved this story! One of my favorite aspects was the diverse characters, both culturally and neurotypically. We need more books like this. 

I loved the authenticity of the story. Everything felt vividly real. All of the characters were lovable and fun to watch. I especially loved Quan! 

The author’s note? It made the whole read! A beautiful, can’t-miss book! LOVED IT. 

I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own. 

About the Author:

Helen Hoang is that shy person who never talks. Until she does. And the worst things fly out of her mouth. She read her first romance novel in eighth grade and has been addicted ever since. In 2016, she was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in line with what was previously known as Asperger’s Syndrome. Her journey inspired THE KISS QUOTIENT. She currently lives in San Diego, California with her husband, two kids, and pet fish.

Have you read The Bride Test, or is it on your TBR? Happy Reading! ~ Jennifer THR