BOOZE & BOOK REVIEWS

The Bride Test

By Helen Hoang

Book Rating: 4 out of 5 boozy stars

The Bride Test is the second novel in Helen Hoang's romantic trilogy, and arguably the best of the first two books that I have read. This novel follows different character's than the first novel does and in my opinion has a much stronger plot than the first book did. Both novels have the underlying theme of falling in love with a person who is on the autism spectrum. 

The Bride Test features loveable characters who you cannot help rooting for until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed the female lead, Esme, as she was so relatable and well written. Esme is a poor woman from Vietnam who worked hard cleaning bathrooms to help support her family. To her surprise, she is chosen by Co Nga, Khai's mother, to come to America under the assumption that she is going to use the summer to live with her son and make Khai fall in love with her. At the end of the summer, if she succeeds, she will marry Khai. If not, then she will be sent back home.

Esme's background story, emotions, and strength make for a well-rounded leading lady that the reader can't help but fall in love with. Her love interest, Khai, is a puzzle that she wants so badly to solve. If you are looking for a quick and light-hearted read that has a nice soft burn that leads to serious steam, this is the book for you.

What booze pairs well with this novel?

The Mekong 

(From "FoodWoolf.com")


Ingredients

Recipe

Booze Rating: 2 out of 5 boozy stars

I chose to pair this novel with The Mekong because it a Vietnamese cocktail and not only are characters in the novel Vietnamese, but Esme spends a large portion of the novel missing home. It was only fitting that the boozy drink that goes with the novel be a Vietnamese cocktail that will hopefully transport readers to Vietnam with just a taste.