07 Jul / Hana Khan Carries On by Uzma Jalaluddin [in Booklist]
As if channeling the success of her debut, Ayesha at Last – a contemporary Muslim Pride and Prejudice – Jalaluddin’s new rom-com doesn’t stray far from Austenian independent women and their recalcitrant partners-to-be. Chasing broadcast dreams, titular Hana Khan interns at Radio Toronto and anonymously podcasts on her own, spurred on by an especially attentive follower who signs himself StanleyP. She also works at her family’s restaurant which, after 15 years, is clearly struggling.
Enter Aydin Shah and his father, who reveal themselves to be the owners of a competing halal establishment opening across the street. Hana and Aydin are destined to clash as rivalry turns to attraction – but what of Hana’s online relationship with StanleyP?
Although only her second solo title, actor/dancer/producer Mohanty – who even matches Jalaluddin’s Canadian Indian background – again showcases her aural talents. Of course, her Hana and Aydin are nuanced stars, but Mohanty also elevates the supporting cast, including Hana’s indomitable cousin Rashid, their feisty aunt, Hana’s brittle boss, and Aydin’s warm fiancée, to create quite the toothsome #OwnVoices match – with bite.
Review: “Media,” Booklist, June 1, 2021
Readers: Adult
Published: 2021