What do you think of how we were introduced to Shona Shah?
Sen questions why it is always Shona. Why do you think it’s Shona that he finds himself entangled with?
What do you think of the contrast that is set up between Shona and Aruna?
Do you find Shona’s family dynamic relatable? She talks about how her father is immovable and her mother is more concerned with only appearances. Do you have people in your family like this?
Rally is our own personal small-town equivalent. What sort of quirky characters do you hope to meet?
What do you think about Sen raving about Shona to his grandfather?
Why do you think that Sen & Shona’s relationship is a secret? Do you really think it is because of Sen’s mother?
Do you think the unexpected scorching kiss is the start to something? The catalyst that will change life as Sen and Shona know it?
Based on what Sam says about Sen and Shona not being able to date, do you think we will see any of our favourite tropes and potentially fake dating?
What do you think of the history Sen shares with Sam? Do you think Sen should have shared this with Sam? Or should Sam have waited for Anni to open up to him about this part of her life?
Do you think the reason Sen gave Sam as to why he didn’t ask Shona out as a kid is true?
What do you think of the dynamic between Shona and her father? Why do you think Aruna and Drake rely on Shona to stand up to the girls’ father?
Shona decides that enough is enough and walks away from the shop. What do you think of this?
Immediately following the scene at the shop, Shona gets two calls that indicate that change is on its way. Do you think Shona will prove to be more like her dad than just her looks?
What do you think of Shona cleaning up for Sen and setting up the centre island. Do you think that maybe she could want more than a secret relationship?
Shona reveals something harrowing about that day at Anni’s house. What do you think of this and her reasoning for not looking for a more traditional justice?
Do you think Anni will go full investigator mode to find the man Shona is seeing?
How do you think their first “date” will go?
15 responses to “Pillow Talk – Day One”
-
1. It was a good idea for the author to introduce the reader to her through Sen’s eyes – it sets the scene for both characters and the story as a romance in general.
2. Because they were childhood friends (and she was one of his first and only friends as a kid) so their shared history keeps him coming back to her.
3. I think all sisters believe that their sister is prettier and looks better in an outfit than themselves. And I also think that all siblings have different personalities, which cause such contrasts as between Aruna and Shona.
4. I don’t find it personally relatable to my own small-circle family, but in our extended family there are a few such characters.
5. The nosy next-door-neighbor that knows everything about everything, the meddling aunty, the town-crazy and the character that works everywhere and does almost every job.
6. I think he likes her a lot more than either of them would like to admit and it’s spilling over when he talks to other people about her.
7. Because they’re both terrified to commit to each other, he’s also afraid her messiness will drive him crazy and she’s afraid she’s not good enough for him. No, it’s not because of his mother.
8. Yes, it is. Their dynamic has now changed and so has their relationship – they’re evolving into an actual couple.
9. Definitely fake-dating! And if Sen messes up, it’s going to turn into enemies-to-lovers…
10. I think that it’s a deeply personal trauma that Anni should have been able to share with her husband when she was ready. It’s obviously not something she discusses easily and she should have been granted the opportunity to wait until she was ready to tell him. No, Sen shouldn’t have told him.
11. Definitely not, or at least not all the way true. He’s just scared to commit to her.
12. They definitely have the older-daughter-father dynamic, where they love each other to death but they’re always butting heads. The other two know that nothing will ever change, and if something ever does, she has the best chance at implementing/causing that change.
13. She’s finally standing up for her own dreams and taking a chance on herself. I’m proud of her!
14. No, I think she will embrace this change. Especially since its business and she’s officially unemployed…
15. I think secretly she does want more…They have a good dynamic and that one kiss changed everything. I think she’s leaning towards more.
16. It was obviously very traumatic for the girls. And what kind of justice could they seek out? Anni would have been sent to foster care and Shona’s parents would probably have told her to keep quiet to protect their shop’s reputation and her own. They would have meant well but made it worse…
17. Yes, definitely! She seems like that kind of bestie..you know – the investigator.
18. I have a feeling someone they know will spot them and make things very awkward!! -
Q- What do you think of how we were introduced to Shona Shah?
A- “Shona was no angel. Shona was chaos” is stuck in my mind.” Loved this intro. Despite this, I get a sense of her authenticity.Q – Sen questions why it is always Shona. Why do you think it’s Shona that he finds himself entangled with?
A- They have a history and have been through quite a bit together. I think he is also drawn to her authenticity and hasn’t met anyone else like her.Q- What do you think of the contrast that is set up between Shona and Aruna?
A- Quite relatable as most siblings are quite different in their personalities.Q – Do you find Shona’s family dynamic relatable? She talks about how her father is immovable and her mother is more concerned with only appearances. Do you have people in your family like this?
A – Highly relatable in a South African context. As a younger member of the family, it can be difficult to get your point across.Q – Rally is our own personal small-town equivalent. What sort of quirky characters do you hope to meet?
A – I can already tell this town loves to gossip, so definitely some more nosey neighbours .Q – What do you think about Sen raving about Shona to his grandfather?
A- I don’t think he can hide his affections for much longer and it comes through in this conversation.Q-Why do you think that Sen & Shona’s relationship is a secret? Do you really think it is because of Sen’s mother?
A- I think it’s the families and community in general. They are afraid to hear what people will say.Q- Do you think the unexpected scorching kiss is the start to something? The catalyst that will change life as Sen and Shona know it?
A- Most definitely. They are definitely taking the next step in their relationship.Q- Based on what Sam says about Sen and Shona not being able to date, do you think we will see any of our favourite tropes and potentially fake dating?
A- I can see it coming!Q- What do you think of the history Sen shares with Sam? Do you think Sen should have shared this with Sam? Or should Sam have waited for Anni to open up to him about this part of her life?
A- I think this was overstepping. He definitely should have waited for her to open up.Q- Do you think the reason Sen gave Sam as to why he didn’t ask Shona out as a kid is true?
A- Not at all!Q-What do you think of the dynamic between Shona and her father? Why do you think Aruna and Drake rely on Shona to stand up to the girls’ father?
A- It’s not a great dynamic. It seems as if the Father does not respect her views, or not even interested in listening. Everyone else is too scared to even stand up to him.Q- Shona decides that enough is enough and walks away from the shop. What do you think of this?
A- It’s about time!Q- Immediately following the scene at the shop, Shona gets two calls that indicate that change is on its way. Do you think Shona will prove to be more like her dad than just her looks?
A- Interesting thought. I think she may realise some of the reasons why her Dad is the way he is.Q- What do you think of Shona cleaning up for Sen and setting up the centre island. Do you think that maybe she could want more than a secret relationship?
A- It’s definitely a sign that she’s “inviting” him into her space and to make him comfortable.Q- Shona reveals something harrowing about that day at Anni’s house. What do you think of this and her reasoning for not looking for a more traditional justice?
A- It’s clear it was a very traumatic experience that still haunts her. I suspect there is also more to this story.Q- Do you think Anni will go full investigator mode to find the man Shona is seeing?
A- Yes, she’s already on it!Q- How do you think their first “date” will go?
A- I have a feeling someone they know very well will see them together! -
1. I love the way we’re first introduced to Shona. As a brown woman myself, I loved how the focus was put on her personality more than the typical stereotypes of brown woman.
2. It’s still very early on to say, but it could be the sense of familiarity. We are let in on the fact that they’re childhood friends who grew up in the same small town were everyone knows everyone. It could be due to that.
3. Personally, as 1 of 2 sisters myself, I find it so relatable as I also find myself inferior to my younger sister at times even though it might not be the case. The second guessing and slight envy is only a natural part that comes along with being a sibling.
4. Shonas family dynamic is utterly relatable. Brown people of the older generation, including my own parents at times are forced to be reckoned with and often firm in their beliefs, no matter how outdated. I love how the author displays this through Shonas parents.
5. I really hope to see characters like a quirky shop owner and a humorous mayor!
6. It totally sounds like a guy with a crush to me!!
7. It could be a secret due to familial expectation, especially in the brown community. I’m sure Sens mother plays a role in it as I’m sure she’s picky about who he should date but I think it is also fair to blame it on a broader amount of reasoning.
8. I definitely think it is. It is their first step away from being casual and I’m sure it’s just the start of something more serious to bloom.
9. I’m not sure about the fake dating trope but I’m sure we’re about to see a bit of forbidden love, yearning and friends to lovers trope.
10. This question is a bit tricky. They guys are very close but I think that bringing up Annis traumatic past without letting her open up was a bad idea. They were friends as well so she trusted him with that information
11. I believe it was true to him, to some extent I’m sure that was what he had convinced himself.
12. Shona comes off as a head strong and confident brown women. If anyone could challenge their father it would be her.
13. I’m both proud and worried for her. Breaking away from familiarity is both a beautiful and scary thing.
14. I feel like she will definitely surprise us. All I know is she’s definitely going to make him a proud man in the end
15. I think that deep down, she does want something more. She’s just scared of not knowing what more means. I’m sure she’s scared of not being accepted by his mom and not being considered good enough.
16. I think the main reason of her not pursuing it is because she just wants to forget that traumatic event and reporting it would’ve just made it known to the whole town.
17. Oh definitely!! I think she’s not going to back down until she finds out who he is.
18. I think it will definitely start off very cute. They might run into someone from town though!
-
1. I love the way we’re first introduced to Shona. As a brown woman myself, I loved how the focus was put on her personality more than the typical stereotypes of brown woman.
2. It’s still very early on to say, but it could be the sense of familiarity. We are let in on the fact that they’re childhood friends who grew up in the same small town were everyone knows everyone. It could be due to that.
3. Personally, as 1 of 2 sisters myself, I find it so relatable as I also find myself inferior to my younger sister at times even though it might not be the case. The second guessing and slight envy is only a natural part that comes along with being a sibling.
4. Shonas family dynamic is utterly relatable. Brown people of the older generation, including my own parents at times are forced to be reckoned with and often firm in their beliefs, no matter how outdated. I love how the author displays this through Shonas parents.
5. I really hope to see characters like a quirky shop owner and a humorous mayor!
6. It totally sounds like a guy with a crush to me!!
7. It could be a secret due to familial expectation, especially in the brown community. I’m sure Sens mother plays a role in it as I’m sure she’s picky about who he should date but I think it is also fair to blame it on a broader amount of reasoning.
8. I definitely think it is. It is their first step away from being casual and I’m sure it’s just the start of something more serious to bloom.
9. I’m not sure about the fake dating trope but I’m sure we’re about to see a bit of forbidden love, yearning and friends to lovers trope.
10. This question is a bit tricky. They guys are very close but I think that bringing up Annis traumatic past without letting her open up was a bad idea. They were friends as well so she trusted him with that information
11. I believe it was true to him, to some extent I’m sure that was what he had convinced himself.
12. Shona comes off as a head strong and confident brown women. If anyone could challenge their father it would be her.
13. I’m both proud and worried for her. Breaking away from familiarity is both a beautiful and scary thing.
14. I feel like she will definitely surprise us. All I know is she’s definitely going to make him a proud man in the end
15. I think that deep down, she does want something more. She’s just scared of not knowing what more means. I’m sure she’s scared of not being accepted by his mom and not being considered good enough.
16. I think the main reason of her not pursuing it is because she just wants to forget that traumatic event and reporting it would’ve just made it known to the whole town.
17. Oh definitely!! I think she’s not going to back down until she finds out who he is.
18. I think it will definitely start off very cute. They might run into someone from town though! -
1. I loved meeting Shona through Sen’s eyes. It felt like getting a sneak peek into her world from someone who already knows her. It made her feel real and instantly intriguing.
2. I think it’s because Shona has always been a part of Sen’s life, they’ve been friends since childhood. It feels like he’s had feelings for her all along, even if he hasn’t fully admitted it to himself. So maybe this friendship and their little entanglement feels ‘enough’ for him… for now.
3. I love the contrast between Shona and Aruna. It feels like a real life oldest-sister/younger-sister dynamic. Shona is ambitious, chasing her dreams, while Aruna seems happy to take things easy and let others do the work. As an older sister myself, I could totally relate to Shona’s drive – it really makes her feel so real.
4. Shona’s family felt so relatable. The dynamic was authentic, and it really reminded me of real people. I found myself connecting with so much about how her parents are, especially the way her father can be immovable and her mother focused on appearances.
5. I love the idea of Rally as a small-town world of its own! I’m hoping to meet lots of quirky, lovable characters. Maybe someone a little mischievous, a town gossip with a heart of gold, or a few charming locals who make everyday life feel warm and full of personality.
6. I think Sen just can’t help himself. He likes Shona so much that he wants to share little pieces of her with the people he loves. He’s totally in love with her; he just needs his heart and his head to finally match up.
7. Yes, absolutely! That unexpected scorching kiss definitely feels like the start of something that could change everything for Sen and Shona. But while Sen seems ready to dive in, I don’t think Shona is quite there yet…
8. Oh, I have a feeling we’re in for some classic tropes! Someone’s definitely going to play hard to get, and hearts, including mine, might get a little broken, lol. I think one of them might even try dating other people because it all feels too much… and my guess is it’ll be Shona.
9. I don’t think Sen should have shared that. It felt like he overstepped and revealed a part of Shona and Anni’s story that was theirs to tell when they were ready. It’s their trust, and he kind of betrayed it.
10. No, I don’t think that’s the full story. I feel like Sen loves structure and organization, and Shona’s more chaotic nature may have unnerved him a bit—but I’m sure there’s more beneath the surface than just that.
11. I think the dynamic between Shona and her father is really layered. He can be immovable, and she’s had to navigate that carefully. I can see why Aruna and Drake rely on Shona to stand up to him; she’s confident, driven, and willing to speak her mind when others might stay quiet.
12. I love that Shona finally decides enough is enough and walks away from the family business. It feels so empowering, like she’s finally claiming her own path and putting herself first. Which is such a relatable and inspiring moment.
13. Yes, I think Shona will end up being more like her dad than she realizes. Especially, when it comes to her relationship with Sen. On that front, she’s going to be just as immovable as he is.
14. I think Shona does want more, even if she doesn’t fully realize it yet. As for the cleanup scene, I feel like she was doing it to make Sen comfortable—she knows she can be a bit messy and was low-key embarrassed, so she’s ‘trying’ for him. Plus, he got that fancy dinner, so she wanted to reciprocate since they can’t really go out together, in public.
15. I could really relate to Shona’s reasoning, especially since the perpetrator had passed. What’s the point of seeking justice then? But, I also see how she was protecting Anni, which unfortunately kept her from getting the help she needed. I do think counseling or confiding in their parents could have made a difference. Sen is clearly still triggered by it as well.
16. Yes, I think Anni will definitely go into full investigator mode and somehow, I have a feeling she won’t be too pleased with what she uncovers.
17. I have a feeling their first ‘date’ won’t stay secret for long. After all, it’s a small town and gossip spreads fast, lol. Someone’s bound to spot them, and soon everyone will know about their situationship.
-
– [ ] I was not prepared !!! I like the idea of being introduced to an MC on the POV of someone who adores her
– [ ] Maybe for the fact that she holds him at arms length makes him want to persue her more
– [ ] It’s giving older daughter vs younger daughter dynamic. Pressure and expectation is always on the oldest child
– [ ] So relatable ! I’m Indian , so this is the most common and basic rhetoric from Indian adults unfortunately they care much more about what outsides think than the people of their family 😭
– [ ] I just know there’s going to be the aunty that’s going to judge your every breath
– [ ] It sounds like his grandfather is safe space since his and shonas agreement is that it suppose to be a little secret affection
– [ ] I feel Shona has a lot of dreams that she’s held back from at the moment and she may feel by allowing Sen into that space would add another layer to figure out . I do feel there’s underlying insecurity that she does not live up to standard of his family or him . If you don’t try you don’t lose anything kind of mind set . So she’s rather not try at all
– [ ] I think it’s definitely going to shift their relationship dynamic into a much more complicated situation ship
– [ ] I’m intrigued by this question ! Because so far I haven’t read anything to lead me to the idea of fake dating 👀but I’d be very excited to read that through !
– [ ] I don’t think Sens intentions were off when sharing that they are both his friends and it seem to be something share to be constructive rather than destructive it’s always better if it comes from the person themselves because it is a personal thing
– [ ] I think in part it could be true but there’s definitely other aspects
– [ ] Her dad is a typical brown elder that’s thinks it’s their way or no way . They think giving any means of construction is some kind of personal disrespect and discredit . I hate him putting words into her mouth . I do think they do again it’s eldest daughter theory
– [ ] I think she did the right thing . Why would anyone stay in a space they’re constantly put down and disregarded . Even if it is family .
– [ ] I think she definitely has some of his aspects that’s shows more in the reason him with Sen than in her actual work making the veils
– [ ] There’s definitely some part of her that wants to create space for him but again complicated but life and dreams and family
– [ ] It’s going to lead more to an imagine things especially in a South African society there’s not a lot of help or seriousness take to crime of harassment or rape and a lot of brown people with feel it’s more a thing wil ruin an image
– [ ] I think she may talk to Sam about it they will put 2 and 2 together
– [ ] I hope it’s good ! He’s being so sweet and thoughtful -
I thought it was really cool to introduce Shona through the eyes of someone who holds her in such high regard (while also commenting on the enigma that she is to him), and in the context of their no-strings-attached relationship. It not only introduced us to both Shona and Sen, but gave us a firm understanding of where they are in their relationship.
I think they have a lot of history together, and even as he may be starting to like her romantically, I think that’s he’s marvelling at how they keep being drawn to each other.
I thought that it was a really relatable depiction of what growing up with a sister in an Indian household is like. While it’s normal to compare yourself to your siblings, the focus on the differences between Shona and Aruna, from Shona’s perspective, were really telling about the way she views herself and her sister. I thought there was an interesting implication that even though she doesn’t like being compared to family members, Shona sometimes does it internally when she envies the way Aruna carries herself.
Yes I do. I grew up in a single parent household, and observed a lot of the dynamics between our extended Indian family members. The depictions of Shona’s parents thusfar have mirrored both aspects of my mom’s character and parts of those extended family members.
I hope we encounter more of the town gossips or that there’s a cranky old person who’s actually really nice or cool.
I think it’s really sweet, but also a sign that he’s starting to develop feelings for her. It could also mean he’s close with his family and feels he can freely talk about what interests him (Shona, in this case).
I’m not sure if it’s because of Sen’s mom’s actual expectations of her son, or Shona’s perception of the difference between their families. Sen mentions this difference to Sam in a different context later, so maybe it is a factor? But until we get a moment where it’s revealed his mom says/ said something along those lines to/ in front of Shona, I’ll continue to think she’s just using it as another excuse/ reason to keep Sen at a comfortable, no-strings-attached distance.
I think so. So far most of their kisses have led to the bedroom, so for Shona and Sen to have a moment of affection in everyday life is new for them, and could be the start of a new dynamic between them.
I don’t see how it could lead to fake dating, but I could see how it could maybe lead to some meddling on Sam’s part. Maybe Sam left the conversation wanting to become a matchmaker between Shona and Sen, and there could be secret double dates in future.
Although Sen and Sam have a solid friendship, I think he should’ve waited for Anni to open up to Sam about that part of her life. It’s her story to tell, after all, not his. He could’ve told it from his perspective afterwards, if Sam asked him.
I think the first half of his reasoning was either a total lie or a joke, but the second half sounded like it was true (from his perspective). The second half reflects what we’ve seen in how he views himself in relation to Shona: that she doesn’t seem to give him the type of attention he expects/ wants from her.
After reading that part, I’m convinced Shona the oldest daughter who is the only one capable of butting heads with her father/ who has a will strong enough to match his. Aruna and Drake might rely on her to push back against their father, expecting her to try and get him to see reason whenever he’s like this.
When I read that part, I put the book down and applauded. I’m glad she’s breaking free of the workplace toxicity and going after her dreams. And, since they’re her family, I’m sure they’ll come around to the idea of her leaving the family business to be a designer eventually.
I think so. I think it’s a great opportunity to get her designs out into the world, show everyone what she’s more than capable of, and generate some business and customers for herself.
I think it’s definitely a step in the right direction. I think Shona’s certainly letting him into more aspects of her life: her making the space more orderly for him, literally carving out a space for him in her apartment without realising it, and allowing Sen to organise dinner for them without any hectic complaints.
It was a traumatic encounter, and it’s sad that both Anni and Shona felt like there were too many negative consequences on their lives for seeking traditional justice. Shona would’ve been silenced by her parents and Anni’s home life would’ve been disrupted even more so than it already was. But, much like Shona, I like to think the man dying in a bar fight was his karma catching up to him for what he did to them.
I think it’ll go well until someone from Rally spots them and Shona gets spooked into wanting to keep them secret again.
-
• It was an authentic introduction to an ‘imperfectly perfect’ character. Her messy hair and the insight into how she lives, with fabric everywhere and an overflowing closet is a real human attribute.
• He grew up with her, looked forward to spending his boarding school holidays back in Rally because of her, so there’s always been that invisible string that linked him to her, maybe even unconsciously.
• It’s typical older vs younger sibling dynamics. Often the older sibling has to deal with the brunt of the families rules and the younger sibling gets to slack off – either because the parents run out of 100% parenting, or because the expectation for the first child is just impossibly high.
• It’s very common in Indian families, so yes. I think it’s also a ‘that generation’ way of thinking. They’re extremely opposed to change of any sort and always obsessed with people pleasing, even if it is at the expense of their children.
• The towns crazy person, the hairdresser or barber that knows everyone’s business, the corner store owner who’s strict but is a town stalwart, the group of gossiping aunties.
• He clearly trusts his grandfather to open up to him about Shona, even if it is to brag about her skills.
• I think it’s mostly because deep down Shona is afraid of what people will think ( her mum’s mindset must have left some marks). I think that Shona thinks she’s not what Sen’s mother would want for a daughter-in-law because of her own misunderstandings, not because that’s how Sen’s mother thinks.
• Of course. It took them both by surprise, but they wanted more so they’re not opposed to what it might mean.
• I don’t think Sen and Shona would fake date. Possibly date in secret, but their feelings would be too real to pretend.
• Sen wanted to help both his friends. If Anni hadn’t told Sam even after they got married, she might not have wanted to relive the memories – understandably so – so Sen revealing it wasn’t at all to hurt either parties, just to help. He definitely didn’t have malicious intent.
• Yes. He does say that even back then they were different. He always went with plan A, whereas Shona could default to plan B and freestyle as and when. When you’re young it’s understandable as to why he was wary of them being together – not to mention, Shona wasn’t impressed with his status.
• It’s not healthy and that type of rigidness does make way for larger problems to come up. Having a common interest in tailoring might be the only similarity these two share. His expectations are outdated and makes Shona feel stuck. He’s obviously not agreeable and Shona is the only person willing to take on that challenge so everyone waits for her.
• As she should! It must have been a slow death to suffer at work with your family of all people.
• I think she’ll be better than her dad.
• It was a thoughtful gesture, but that at that point of the book, I feel it was just her being nice because Sen got the food from a pretty fancy restaurant.
• Makes sense as to why Anni didn’t want to say anything to Sam. Her explanation of wanting to protect Anni is understandable. They were really young and scared, and didn’t have a trusted adult in their life to trust with getting traditional justice (although he absolutely should have gotten it).
• I do! But I also think she’ll respect it if Shona says she’s tell her when she’s ready.
• More feelings will come to the surface. There’s bound to be something interesting happening. Either seeing someone from town or making a crazy memory.
-
1. I appreciated how Shona was introduced to us through Sen’s perspective, particularly since it comes from someone who genuinely cares about her.
2. They are childhood friends who have endured much together, including the experiences involving Shona and Anni. Their closeness likely stems from the familiarity and bond that has developed since childhood.
3. This dynamic between siblings feels entirely natural. Shona is portrayed as the ambitious one, whereas Aruna appears more laid-back. It is also typical in Indian households for the eldest sibling to assume the bulk of the responsibilities.
4. Their family dynamic is highly relatable. In many Indian households, it is common for older generations to be deeply set in their ways, making change difficult.
5. I look forward to encountering the town gossiper as well as more of the locals from Rally.
6. Shona clearly means a great deal to Sen, as he constantly thinks of her and shares her successes with his grandfather. He is unable to conceal his feelings for her.
7. Given the Indian family context, this likely involves differences in social status. Sen appears to come from a wealthy and affluent background, while Shona seems to be from a middle-class family.
8. Most certainly. With the amount of time they are spending together, it will become increasingly difficult for them to deny their feelings.
9. At this stage, I am uncertain about the possibility of a fake dating scenario, as I cannot envision how it would unfold. However, time will reveal more.
10. I believe it was not Sen’s story to tell. That decision should have belonged to Anni, to share when she felt ready.
11. I doubt that is the full truth. As the chapters progress, the real reason will gradually be revealed.
12. Their relationship reflects the dynamic often seen between a father and the eldest child. In Indian households, the eldest frequently bears a heavy share of responsibility. Aruna and Drake understand that only Shona has the power to alter her circumstances and take control of her future.
13. I was thrilled to see her take charge and stand up for what she believes in and wishes to pursue.
14. Shona is destined to shine as she follows her chosen career path.
15. Their dynamic is strong, and it is evident that she desires something more.
16. This was an incredibly traumatic experience for both girls. Their decision was aimed at preventing Anni from being placed in foster care. Considering the strained dynamic between Shona and her parents, I am unsure how they would have responded to the truth.
17. Absolutely. Best friends naturally want to know every detail.
18. True to form, they may eventually be seen together by someone they know, or their relationship may become the subject of town gossip.
-
1. I really enjoyed Shona’s introduction and was eager to see her character develop: “Shona Shah was no angel.”
2. I think they are always in each other’s lives because of their history and they have friends that keep them connected to each other.
3. I actually found this quite relatable in Indian culture, to be compared to your siblings based off looks, e.g. hair. I believe that was the reason for the contrast.
4. Personally, in Indian cultures (also my family lol) I think people can be “set in their ways” because it’s comfortable and all they know and change is difficult, so I find Shona’s father very relatable. With Shona’s mother, I think that she was raised to have these beliefs.
5. For some reason I hope to find local vendors and shop owners because they are quite common.
6. I think his interest in her is so evident and it’s adorable! The trope: The guy falls first.
7. I think Sen and Shona are scared to admit their feelings for one another, so they keep it a secret.
8. I think the kiss did have an impact on both of them but this is going to be a slow burn.
9. Oh, I hadn’t thought about the fake dating trope but I’d love to see it!
10. I don’t see any harm in Sen sharing Anni’s history, as they are close friends and he helped Sam put things into perspective.
11. I don’t believe that.
12. I think either 2 things: Shona and her dad are complete opposites with different mindsets, or they are completely the same person and that’s why they butt heads a lot.
13. I think it’s good for her character growth.
14. This could be very true. She could realize her father’s way of doing things, and this could bring them back together.
15. At this point in the story, I don’t think she thought too much of setting the table for him, but it could lead to that a little later.
16. I think she was scared or she felt helpless. I think she felt alone, and her family wouldn’t help or believe her.
17. I think Anni is going to pester her a bit until she gets some information on this guy and I can’t wait!
18. I dont want to believe that everything is going to go smoothly, I think something might happen or will make it awkward.
-
I loved that we were introduced to Shonah through Sens eyes as it gives us a sense of authenticity as well as sets the scene for what is to come.
He most likely has deeper feelings for her that he has not realised as yet thus finding himself constantly questioning “why always Shonah”.
It shows us that these two sisters who have grown up under the same roof have lived through two different childhoods. Where one was expected to do more compared to the other and perhaps were always pinned against each other as what sometimes happens with siblings.
Unfortunately yes. I think most people can relate to this and I guess that is just how society works which doesnt make it right.
The town gossiper as I am sure we can all relate to knwoing that one person who is always up in other peoples business.
It shows us that Sen has a great relationship with his grandfather and that Sen has greater feelings for Shonah than he lets himself believe.
I think its got to do more with Shonah and Sen than Sens mother that they have kept their relationship a secret. They are two individuals who clearly have feelings for each other but who dont want to accept it and would rather just ignore that feeling than be truthful with themselves.
I really do hope it is as they both need to wake up and see what is in front of them.
Uh, I dont think we will as these two have been keeping their ‘relationship’ a secret so I dont see them fake dating each other.
Ideally Sam should have respected Anni and not pushed Sen to tell him more about Annis childhood. However, I can see why Sam did this as he wants to help Anni.
Probably yes as they were also just kids and they dont know any better in terms of what they truly want or how they truly feel. So in that moment Sen must have genuinely felt that way.
Aruna and Drake know that the only person that the father will listen to is Shonah and well Shonah has been running/working for the business for a long time.
I love this for Shonah! Its about time she stood up for herself and did something for herself.
From what we have been let in on, Shonah is headstrong and knows what she wants but also understands that the necessity to grow and adapt to the changes of the world. So I would like to thing she will be like her father in terms of running a business but while learning from her fathers mistakes and doing some aspects differently. Shonah is her fathers daughter but is also so much more than her looks.
I like to think that Shonah cleaning her dining room was just as much for herself as it was for Sen but more so for herself. I do think at the back of her mind that she wants an open and non-secretive relationship and that too with Sen.
Living in times that we do I can understand why Sho and Anni didnt choose to seek traditional justice as justice isnt always attained. And we are also given the reason for them not choosing the traditonal route of justice as Anni would have been sent into foster care which both girls did not want to happen.
I think Anni already knows who it is and shes just playing along with Shonah.
I have a feeling their first date will go really well and it will bring them both to the realisation that they like the other a lot more than what they think they do.
-
1) I loved being introduced to Shona through Sens eyes. I especially loved that we’re given a glimpse into her personality and authenticity right from the start and that was refreshing to know that she’s not your typical brown girl.
2) They shared a childhood and have history but, in addition to that I think he is drawn to her authenticity. She doesn’t pretend to be anyone other than who she really is and he may subconsciously be attracted to her chaos.
3) I’m the eldest daughter in my family and I have 3 younger sisters so I found that accurate and relatable.
4) Yes, I do find her family dynamic relatable. As the eldest daughter in my family there are certain expectations of us. I don’t have people exactly like that in my immediate family but I do have uncles and aunts like that.
5) Rally is very similar to the small town I live in so yes I do expect more quirky characters; like nosey neighbours of cos, a cafe owner down the road where everyone gets their daily bread and milk that monitors everyone’s comings and goings and that hears all the latest gossip and the doctors receptionist that spreads gossip with all the patients.
6) I don’t think that he is doing it intentionally. He really likes her and it’s getting harder for him to exclude her in his everyday life conversations.
7) I think they are both concerned that if they make it public their family’s will interfere but they’re also both afraid of commitment and hurting each other and ruining their friendship.
8) Yes, I definitely think their no-strings-attached relationship is changing whether they want it to or not.
9) Not fake dating but my guess would be forbidden love and miscommunication trope.
10) It wasn’t Sen’s story to share. Anni should have shared it when she was ready and felt comfortable to do so.
11) I think that there is some truth to it but that he knows that’s not exactly how he feels.
12) I think it’s a stereotypical father/eldest-child – in- a- brown – family dynamic. It’s not healthy at all. I think Aruna and Drake follow her lead as she’s the eldest so they expect her to be the one to make changes and break the cycle. They’re too scared to do it on their own.
13) I love this for her! I was honestly pleasantly surprised that it happened so soon but I loved it. She deserves so much more and to live her life the way she wants and make her own dreams come true.
14) No, as were read her father hates change and Shona feels stifled by that. I think she will embrace this opportunity and be nothing like her father.
15) I think she wants him to see her in a different light. It’s a small change but it indicates that she does want more.
16) I think she is still traumatized but what happened; but in that moment she chose what she thought was the best outcome for Anni. It was a selfless act but she still carries that trauma with her.
17) Yes! Anni seems like the type to dig for information until she is satisfied lol.
18) I think it is going to be a disaster. In a small town like Rally nothing remains a secret for very long and someone is always watching.
-
1. I loved how we were introduced to Shona through Sen’s POV. His view of her messy hair, fabric everywhere, the contrast of a neat living room and chaos in the dining, really showed how he sees her.
2.Because they’ve known each other since childhood, there’s a magnetic pull that always brings him back to her.
3.Every sibling has different personalities, and we see that clearly in how Aruna describes Shona.
4.Definitely. Many families have one strict parent and another focused-on appearances. It’s a balance most of us know well.
5. I already love Rally. I’m excited to meet nosy Neighbours, the town gossip, and some loveable side characters who’ll shape the story.
6.He just couldn’t help himself. With his grandfather, he feels safe to share even the things meant to stay secret.
7. Keeping it secret gives them time to figure things out without outside pressure. Their parents and the town would turn it into gossip.
8.Absolutely. That moment changes everything, it’s the point of no return, That kind of moment cant be ignored in romance books .
9.Most likely. I can see fake dating, slow burn, and other tropes coming up as their relationship develops.
10.It wasn’t his story to tell-it was for Anni. But he meant well, trying to help his friend.
11.Maybe not fully. There’s more behind it than he admits.
12.Shona has the courage her siblings don’t. She’s the only one who can truly challenge their father.
13.It’s brave. She doesn’t want to be stuck in the shop forever. She wants to grow, even if it means leaving family expectations behind.
14. Yes. She has his strength, but she’ll use it to become even better than him.
15.It shows she wants more than a secret. Deep down, she wants something real and meaningful.
16 .Her choice not to seek traditional justice shows her strength in handling things her own way.
17.Definitely. That’s very Anni, she won’t let it go.
18.I hope it goes well, but being a small town, someone will see them, and it’ll quickly become the talk of the town. -
1. I loved how we were introduced to Shona through Sen’s POV. His view of her messy hair, fabric everywhere, the contrast of a neat living room and chaos in the dining, really showed how he sees her.
2.Because they’ve known each other since childhood, there’s a magnetic pull that always brings him back to her.
3.Every sibling has different personalities, and we see that clearly in how Aruna describes Shona.
4.Definitely. Many families have one strict parent and another focused-on appearances. It’s a balance most of us know well.
5. I already love Rally. I’m excited to meet nosy Neighbours, the town gossip, and some loveable side characters who’ll shape the story.
6.He just couldn’t help himself. With his grandfather, he feels safe to share even the things meant to stay secret.
7. Keeping it secret gives them time to figure things out without outside pressure. Their parents and the town would turn it into gossip.
8.Absolutely. That moment changes everything, it’s the point of no return, That kind of moment cant be ignored in romance books .
9.Most likely. I can see fake dating, slow burn, and other tropes coming up as their relationship develops.
10.It wasn’t his story to tell-it was for Anni. But he meant well, trying to help his friend.
11.Maybe not fully. There’s more behind it than he admits.
12.Shona has the courage her siblings don’t. She’s the only one who can truly challenge their father.
13.It’s brave. She doesn’t want to be stuck in the shop forever. She wants to grow, even if it means leaving family expectations behind.
14. Yes. She has his strength, but she’ll use it to become even better than him.
15.It shows she wants more than a secret. Deep down, she wants something real and meaningful.
16 .Her choice not to seek traditional justice shows her strength in handling things her own way.
17.Definitely. That’s very Anni, she won’t let it go.
18.I hope it goes well, but being a small town, someone will see them, and it’ll quickly become the talk of the town. -
Q – What do you think of how we were introduced to Shona Shah?
A – This throws us right into her life, and she seems like to be quite a force of nature. This is definitely going to be an interesting readQ – Sen questions why it is always Shona. Why do you think it’s Shona that he finds himself entangled with?
A – There’s definitely chemistry between them and being a Bollywood lover, friends to lovers is a trope for a reason.Q – What do you think of the contrast that is set up between Shona and Aruna?
A – I think that it is so relatable – all siblings have their own dynamics and insecurities. There are things that that drive the other sibling crazy but they’re still there for them no matter what. I think Shona has elder daughter syndrome which I can relate to.Q – Do you find Shona’s family dynamic relatable? She talks about how her father is immovable and her mother is more concerned with only appearances. Do you have people in your family like this?
A – Most definitely, every Indian family has these figures. Luckily my parents are very supportive.Q – Rally is our own personal small-town equivalent. What sort of quirky characters do you hope to meet?
A – The gossiping neighbour, and the supportive “aunt”Q – What do you think about Sen raving about Shona to his grandfather?
A – I think he is proud of what Shona has done and wants to share – he likes her so wants to talk about herQ – Why do you think that Sen & Shona’s relationship is a secret? Do you really think it is because of Sen’s mother?
A – I think Shona likes Sen more that she’s willing to admit and she’s scared of messing it up. Also, letting people you know that you’re dating in a small town, sets up expectations and allows people to interfere unnecessarily.Q – Do you think the unexpected scorching kiss is the start to something? The catalyst that will change life as Sen and Shona know it?
A – I think that it definitely will start the next chapter, where this evolves to a real relationship – I can’t wait!Q – Based on what Sam says about Sen and Shona not being able to date, do you think we will see any of our favourite tropes and potentially fake dating?
A – Absolutely! I think that we will see he falls first, not sure about fake dating, maybe Shona get nervous and push him away? Definitely friends to lovers. I think Sam may interfere a little,Q – What do you think of the history Sen shares with Sam? Do you think Sen should have shared this with Sam? Or should Sam have waited for Anni to open up to him about this part of her life?
A – I don’t think that he should have shared this with Sam – it was for Anni to tell him when she was ready toQ – Do you think the reason Sen gave Sam as to why he didn’t ask Shona out as a kid is true?
A – I think he’s told himself this so many times, that he believes it nowQ – What do you think of the dynamic between Shona and her father? Why do you think Aruna and Drake rely on Shona to stand up to the girls’ father?
A – I think that generally the eldest daughter stands up to her father and the other two just let things stay as status quo.Q – Shona decides that enough is enough and walks away from the shop. What do you think of this?
A – I think that this was a good decision – she was feeling stifled at the shop and her father wouldn’t let her make the changes that she wants so it’s best for her to find her spaceQ – Immediately following the scene at the shop, Shona gets two calls that indicate that change is on its way. Do you think Shona will prove to be more like her dad than just her looks?
A – I think that she will be determined to make it work but also a little scared of changeQ – What do you think of Shona cleaning up for Sen and setting up the centre island. Do you think that maybe she could want more than a secret relationship?
A – I think she wanted to make an effort since she did but I think she knows that they already have something good and that they would work well together if they triedQ – Shona reveals something harrowing about that day at Anni’s house. What do you think of this and her reasoning for not looking for a more traditional justice?
A – I think that they were scared and obviously traumatised – they were young and it was a small community so they would be nervous for everyone to know.Q – Do you think Anni will go full investigator mode to find the man Shona is seeing?
A – Oh most definitely. It’s a best friend’s perogative so there’s no way that she’ll let it go until she knows who it is. I’m surprised she didn’t recognise the voice but I guess that it was faintQ – How do you think their first “date” will go?
A – I think that it will surprise Shona and go really well. Will someone see them?
Leave a Reply