Review:

‘We all have bad days, we all lose focus, and experience burnout. But do you know what sets the successful apart from others who do not make it? Those who chase success never give up. No matter how bad it is today, they know they will, or rather, they have to spring back tomorrow. It’s absolutely okay to take time off, but it’s not ok to let that time stretch on indefinitely.’

It had been a while since I came across a love story that made me pause, reflect, and relive its characters long after closing the final page. A story that didn’t just entertain but stayed with me, lingering like a favourite song. This Thing Called Love by Deblina Bhattacharyya was exactly that for me.

Set against the romantic backdrop of Paris, the book follows Amaira, an ambitious and aspiring chef, who finds herself in an arranged marriage with Deven, a shy, introverted man. The two begin their newly married life, a relationship born more out of obligation than affection. Amaira, grounded in her dreams and aspirations, makes it clear that their marriage is merely a formality for the family; they are husband and wife in name only.

What unfolds is a beautifully crafted, slow-burn romance between two strangers who slowly grow to understand, support, and eventually care deeply for each other. Their friendship evolves organically. Deven restrains his growing affection, aware of the fragility of their arrangement, while Amaira tries to suppress her own emotions. The emotional tension is palpable, leaving the reader wondering, Where is this delicate dance of love and restraint truly heading?

What truly stood out to me were the small, quiet moments they shared—the time they spent together, the little things they did for each other, the silences filled with comfort, and the honest conversations that slowly brought them closer. It was heartwarming to see how, over time, they became each other’s strength in moments of uncertainty and pain. These tender interactions gave the story an emotional authenticity that made it even more immersive.

Deblina masterfully weaves themes of love, loss, dreams, career ambitions, and familial expectations into a narrative that feels as immersive and heartfelt as a well-made Bollywood film. The plot is engaging, driven by a crisp, vivid narrative that mirrors real-life complexities. The situations and emotions are deeply relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with the characters’ journeys.

One of my favourite elements was how both Amaira and Deven turned to their diaries, a personal sanctuary, to pen down thoughts they couldn’t voice aloud. This detail added a layer of intimacy and vulnerability that made their internal worlds feel more real. Deblina’s writing style is emotionally rich and accessible, bringing to life complex characters that feel both flawed and lovable. Deven’s character, in particular, left a profound impression on me—his quiet strength, empathy, and emotional depth made him stand out long after the story ended.

Amaira’s character, on the other hand, felt a bit more self-centred to me. While her ambition and independence were admirable, at times her emotional detachment even made me feel frustrated with her choices. Yet, this emotional distance added to her layered personality, and watching her gradually evolve made her journey feel more authentic and rewarding.

The pacing is just right, taking readers on an emotional rollercoaster as Amaira and Deven navigate their evolving relationship. Just as things begin to stabilise, an unexpected mishap threatens their fragile world, shaking everything they’ve built. As the story intensifies, so does the drama, leading to a gripping, unforgettable climax that left me genuinely eager for more. I’m now waiting eagerly to see how their story unfolds in the next part.

This Thing Called Love is more than a romance, it’s a story of self-discovery, vulnerability, second chances, and the quiet ways people grow together. If you’re looking for a heartfelt read with rich characters, emotional tension, and a storyline that tugs at your heartstrings, this is a book you can count on to deliver.

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