Love on Sight

Asli Jensen’s novel and winner of the Branford Boase Award 2026, Love on Sight, is a contemporary, real and powerful debut. Following English Jamaican Sabrina, nicknamed ‘Sabs’, and Somali Muslim Jalaal, Asli Jensen explores first love, connection and intimacy in a refreshing and relatable way. The novel does not shy away from more complex and intricate themes of police violence, racism and gang culture as well as grief and parental instability, doing so in a tender and careful, albeit detailed, way.

The alternating narrative of the two protagonists provides insight into growing up in modern-day London, as they navigate friendships, culture, relationships and decisions about the future. Written authentically in the voices of both Jalaal and Sabrina, Asli Jensen breaks down stereotypes and infuses hope and warmth into a rich interweaving of culture and community. Love on Sight flawlessly balances severity with humour, relatability and connection with Jensen’s overall message remaining heartwarming and optimistic.

Particularly impressive is Jensen’s ability to depict quiet, fragile moments of vulnerability against the backdrop of an often chaotic and demanding urban environment. The chemistry between Sabrina and Jalaal feels earned, built up through late-night messages, shared anxieties and the heavy pressure of balancing cultural and family expectations with their own dreams of the future. By weaving their distinct heritages and the rhythms of the London streets into the novel, Jensen elevates the romance into a multi-dimensional exploration of identity and belonging. Every relationship in the novel feels textured, genuine and purposeful.

This should be recommended to any readers looking for a touching, fearless and daring story of young love.