The Big Day

A funny, heartwarming and page-turning novel about a British-Asian mother and daughter, who clash over the plans for the bride's Big Day.

Noor has no interest in getting married (much to the aunties' distress). Growing up she saw first-hand how divorce tears families apart... But then, she falls in love.

Soon, Noor's engaged and planning an intimate wedding that feels perfect for her and her fiancé Dan. But when Noor discovers her mother Leena also has grand plans for the Big Day, their once-close relationship starts to unravel. Noor can't understand why Leena is determined to have an elaborate Desi celebration when their lives have been anything but traditional. And after a lifetime following other people's dreams, Noor is determined not to back down.

As Leena and Noor clash over every point on their to-do lists, it begins to look like there will be two weddings and only one bride. And when family secrets shake the women's bond further, will there even be a wedding at all?

About the Author

Aliya Ali-Afzal has a degree in Russian and German from UCL and an MA in Creative Writing from Royal Holloway, University of London. Her debut novel Would I Lie To You was selected for World Book Night 2022, was a Summer Reads Pick by Penguin Books UK, and has been translated into Arabic and published in the UAE in 2023. Aliya is a proud Londoner and is now a full-time writer and a creative writing teacher and mentor. 

Reviews

"This book packs a full punch of emotions – I laughed, I groaned, I cringed, but most of all, I fell in love with Noor, her family, and her culture. A beautiful celebration that I wish I could relive all over again" —Jesse Q. Sutanto, USA Today Bestselling author of Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers

"Aliya writes books that literally have it all... Nail-biting tension, laugh out loud humour and razor-sharp intelligence... There is enough heart and wisdom in this novel to keep you feeling warm and fuzzy long after you have finished reading" —Sairish Hussain

"A hilarious, big-hearted tale grappling with the delights and pressures facing British-Pakistani women today. Ali-Afzal is the desi answer to Sophie Kinsella," —Mehwish Hayat, Ms Marvel actress

"Aliya is such an intelligent, observant writer and The Big Day is multi-layered genre fiction at its best. It is funny and propulsive but weighted in truth and real issues. Aliya has such a strong voice and her brilliant cast of characters are nuanced and clearly drawn. A real page turner for a weekend's distraction or a great holiday read too." —Kate Sawyer

"The characters are drawn superbly and the story is as much a study on what it is to navigate modern life while keeping a steady hand on the tiller of tradition and expectation. It is a story of identity and culture and most of all love – in all it's guises." —Faith Hogan

Dimensions: 12.8 x 2.2 x 19.8 cm