Book Review — Strictly at Work by Sudha Nair

Strictly at Work by Sudha Nair

Publisher: Penguin eBury Press
Pages: 256
Price: Rs. 299 INR(paperback), Rs. 190 INR(Kindle edition)
ISBN: 978–0143452546
Buy here: https://amzn.to/3i8YQle

My take on the book:

Ranvir works at a Finance startup as an analyst and Simi works at a furniture company ‘Fintura’ in the marketing department. As Simi is elated to move to the new co-working space Bizworks, she bumps into Ranvir on her first day at the new office. As Simi’s best friend Deepa starts dating Ranvir’s friend Abhi, they four keep meeting for lunch and snack breaks. 

Ranvir is in a live-in relationship from five years with his college-mate Parul, while Simi is being prodded by her family to marry Karan, Simi’s family friend. The attraction is mutual between Simi and Ranvir, though they are also aware that they are committed to their respective partners. Will Simi and Ranvir realize their true feelings for each other forms the rest of the story. 

The concept of love blossoming between strangers at a co-working space is fresh and makes for a good backdrop. For all of us missing our workplace, the gossip and daily fun associated with it for the past year, this story will bring in warm memories and nostalgia. Both Simi and Ranvir are characters that are relatable, real and contemporary. Even the extended traits and hobbies of the characters like crocheting and doodling are well woven into the narrative.

The inclusion of families of the protagonists makes the story a wholesome entertainer while touching on how our decisions often are influenced by our immediate family, their support or lack of it. I would have loved more of Parul, beyond her constantly planning for a holiday. This is my fourth book from the author Sudha and though all are love stories, I love how each has a different backdrop. 

All love stories generally have few options for an ending, hence the narration takes the center stage; the first half is fun and establishes the characters, while the second half caters to the emotions. Pick this one for a breezy, entertaining read, especially if you prefer contemporary love stories.

My rating:

4/5.

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon