MEET SONYA

“SECOND ACTS ARE OFTEN THE BEST ONES”

Sonya Singh is the author of the just-published The Fake Matchmaker, a novel about a South Asian woman navigating family expectations, heartbreak, and reinvention.

Name: Sonya Singh. My Indian name is actually Stinder. Sonya came later – it’s a version of my nickname Sonu. 

Currently: I’m the author of the just-published The Fake Matchmaker, a novel about a South Asian woman navigating family expectations, heartbreak, and reinvention – and what happens when she stops living for approval and starts choosing herself.

My life in 50 words (or less!): A storyteller shaped by many chapters – television, communications, writing – who believes second acts are often the best ones. Curious, reflective, romantic at heart, and finally trusting my own voice(s). A true Aries who lives for a good trope. 

The writer in me took flight when: I stopped trying to sound like what I thought readers wanted and started writing honestly.

The romantic in me wishes: People lived more like the tropes I write about.

My favourite line in poetry: “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” – Oscar Wilde.

Favourite colour: Purple.

Favourite designer: I live for Indian clothes.

Favourite movie: You’ve Got Mail.

Favourite author: Oscar Wilde.

Favourite TV shows: Never Have I EverThe BearSex and the City.

Favourite ice cream flavour: Strawberry.

Favourite cuisine: Indian – always.

Favourite restaurant: An intimate neighbourhood spot with great bread, good lighting, and no rush to leave.

Favourite activities: Morning writing, working out, long walks, bookstore browsing, people-watching, and spending time with my two loves.

I hang out: Anywhere the conversation is good and the energy feels easy. I love food and good conversation.

The Fake Matchmaker by Sonya Singh is published by Doubleday Canada, $25. See book review here.

I’m freaked out by: Staying stuck – creatively or emotionally.

I need: Love and I need to give love. 

My role models: Women in their second acts.

Tips to save the planet: Consume less, reuse more, walk when you can, support local. Especially now. 

In a perfect world: We’d celebrate second chances more often.

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