It Had to Be Him

Khorram (I’ll Have What He’s Having) puts a sunny spin on heartbreak in this pleasant vacation romance, which follows 38-year-old Iranian American Ramin on an impulsive trip to Italy after his boyfriend declines his marriage proposal. He’s looking to reinvent himself when he unexpectedly encounters his high school crush, Noah Bartlett, on his own Italian vacation with his ex-wife Angela and their nine-year-old son, Jake. Noah, who is bisexual, is thrilled to be reunited with Ramin, viewing their encounter as “a second chance he didn’t know he wanted.” The men continue to bump into each other first coincidentally and later deliberately, sharing meals, a Vespa ride, and even a hotel room before acknowledging their mutual attraction. After several attempts to express their affection are disrupted by Noah’s family, the guys finally get some alone time so Noah can make Ramin’s fantasy—which involves Noah wearing a wrestling singlet—come true. It’s the first of many spicy episodes, but as they become more intimate, Ramin struggles with issues of body dysmorphia, and people pleaser Noah keeps putting others’ needs before his own. The Italian backdrop, complete with mouthwatering descriptions of food and drink, adds charm. The result is a winning romance about lovers helping each other become their best selves. Agent: Molly O’Neill, Root Literary. (Sept.)