Niki Randhawa lives with her parents in Seattle, being the dutiful South Asian American daughter and earning well in data analytics. But her job is no safer than any in this time of cutbacks, and she’s still reeling from shock when she meets Raj Sahota, the Indian doctor she’s been set up to date. Raj encourages her to use the sudden layoff as a chance to do something exciting. Cue A HOLLY JOLLY DIWALI because Niki uncharacteristically flies out to India for the wedding of her friend Diya.

Having attended a lovely Diwali celebration, I can say that this is similar to the UK Hallowe’en tradition; both are about chasing away darkness with many lights and having a family feast. In Mumbai, Niki, an American girl is stunned by the abject poverty she sees side by side with rampant wealth. But I noticed she doesn’t decide to do anything about this, and she spends all her time with rich friends and relatives. Also attending the initial Diwali party (there are so many parties in the book, you may get confused because Indian weddings can last a week) is London bass guitarist Sameer Mukherji, known as Sam. The two hit it off, but despite friends nudging them together, they don’t expect more than a fling. They live on different continents.

Despite the characters being late twenties, this book felt similar to a New Adult novel. They are still figuring out which relationship, job, and even lifestyle will suit them. They have family rows caused by parents not getting their expectations met. Young women need chaperoning or feel embarrassed if friends see them in an embrace. Bringing an American person to see the sights of Mumbai, Goa, and Amritsar is an ideal way for author Sonya Lalli to reach many readers. We see culture clash, outdated ideas still going strong, and modern swooning over Bollywood heroes, though the only actress mentioned is a retired family member. Another issue that comes up in this storyline is shown through trying to hold a conversation over text or a videocall which can lead to misunderstandings.

This spicy travel romance story is suitable for older teens or adults, and nicely bridges the time between Diwali and Christmas, and various cultural traditions, too. A HOLLY JOLLY DIWALI is a different holiday season story, about people who might live near you. Families are the beating heart of the music and growing, independent young women are the dancers.  I had a great time reading, and I am sure you will too.

Book Summary