Review - First Comes Like by Alisha Rai

 

I love Alisha Rai's work, even though I've only read a few. I was super excited for First Comes Like, the third book in her Modern Romance series. Overall it was a great book and excellently written. I have to admit, though, I was looking forward to some super-steam, and this book just didn't have it. Honestly, though, it wouldn't have made sense with these characters for them to be super intimate, so I get it, totally, but still a little disappointed.

Jia is a social media influencer. She has all her websites and videos, etc. She starts talking to an Indian TV star online, and when he comes to Hollywood to break in to American TV, she goes to meet him - except he has no idea who she is! One thing leads to another (romance reasons) and they agree to a fake relationship for both of their benefit, except, of course (!) they catch feelings.

This book felt like it moved really fast! I don't know that I got a great idea of the characters - I wanted to live with them longer? Be more in their heads? It just felt very plot-driven (which isn't a bad thing), but I wanted I guess more feelings. 

In any case, I'd recommend First Comes Like, and can't wait for Rai's next book!

Review - Girl Gone Viral by Alisha Rai

My Rating: 5/5 stars!!

Alisha Rai’s Girl Gone Viral is utterly fantastic and a joy to read. The book follow Katrina, a former model who is now plagued by anxiety and so tries to be as anonymous as possible. When a photo of her in a coffee shop goes viral, she fears that the life she’s carefully built for herself will be ruined. Jas, her trusty (and hunky) bodyguard steps in to help her out.

The character building in this novel is top-notch. Both Katrina and Jas are such believable, likable characters. They both have their own problems they are dealing with, but watching them come together to overcome them is just great. I loved reading the back-and-forth from both points of view, which were full of with and vulnerability.

The way that Rai tackles such timely and poignant issues in this book is impressive. Characters deal with anxiety, PTSD, family issues and the lack of privacy inherent in an increasingly online world. She raises some really interesting  questions that keep you thinking after you've finished the book.

I can’t wait to read more by Alisha Rai.