Move Over Bollywood – This Book Delivers the Best Desi Love Story of the Year!

Book Review of the best desi love story-The Grand Samara by Trisha Das

The Grand Samara by Trisha Das is a wonderful whirlwind journey into a classic rom-com with an Indian twist. As soon as I started, I knew I was in for a treat. The story follows Samara Mansingh, a lively and unapologetic wedding photographer, who lands in the chaotic Khanna family household in Delhi. Little does she know that she’s about to shake up their lives—and her own—in the most delightful way. Think of a feel-good Bollywood movie, with the drama, the laughter, the romance, and a good dose of family chaos, all wrapped up in one book—the best Desi love story.

Each member of the Khanna family has their struggles, and as Samara enters their world, she unknowingly begins to help them confront the issues they’ve hidden from themselves. Sharav, the eldest son and a no-nonsense businessman, is initially frustrated by Samara’s presence. But that frustration quickly turns into something more interesting (and, oh, so fun to read about). Then there’s Diya, Sharav’s dramatic sister, who’s desperately resisting an arranged marriage; Dhruv, the withdrawn younger brother who’s battling his insecurities; and their mother, Jyoti, who’s locked in her grief. Watching Samara’s personality collide with each of these characters made for such a rich, dynamic story.

The chemistry between Samara and Sharav was everything! Their playful banter, the teasing, and yes, the tension—it all had me grinning and invested in their story. I found myself rooting for them, wanting to shake Sharav awake so he’d realize how perfect Samara was for him. The banter between them wasn’t just entertaining; it was sizzling. And Trisha Das has a way of writing those moments that’ll make you smile, laugh, and maybe even blush a little. I swear, there were moments so intense between them that I felt like I was right there, holding my breath. 

One thing that sets The Grand Samara apart from other romances I’ve read is that it’s not just about the love story between Samara and Sharav. Trisha Das made each character’s journey so relatable and real, diving deep into family dynamics and relationships in a way that’s rarely seen in typical romances. She brings the whole Khanna family to life, and it’s this focus on the entire family that makes the book feel so wholesome and authentic. As someone familiar with the importance of family in Indian culture, I found this aspect so, so refreshing. Samara doesn’t just flirt with Sharav; she takes on the role of problem-solver for everyone in the Khanna household, giving each of them the gentle (or not-so-gentle) push they need to find happiness.

Das brings Delhi to life, too, making the setting almost feel like a character of its own. From the lively streets to the chaotic beauty of Indian weddings, I felt like I was right there, surrounded by the vibrancy of the city and the warmth of family gatherings. This isn’t just a book with an Indian setting; it’s a story that’s deeply rooted in Indian culture, and I loved that it felt so familiar and rich in detail. Samara, with her infectious energy, brings that same life into the Khanna family and the pages of the book.

The humour in this book was another big highlight for me. Das has a sharp wit, and she brings out the hilarity of family drama in the best way possible. This was my first time reading Trisha Das’s work, and I couldn’t stop smiling at the clever, funny moments scattered throughout. Samara’s inner thoughts, the amusing banter, and the small moments of absurdity felt like a comforting hug. The whole experience of reading this book was like curling up with a cosy movie, one that’s both hilarious and heartwarming.

Since it is a retelling of Georgette Heyer’s The Grand Sophy, I was curious to see how Das would bring her style to the story. She did more than that—she gave it an Indian soul. From the close-knit family structure to the small quirks and traditions that felt so distinctly Indian, this book felt like it was speaking directly to me. It’s a celebration of Indian culture, but in a way that feels genuine and relatable rather than stereotyped.

If you’re a fan of rom-coms with heart and humour, I highly recommend giving The Grand Samara a read. It’s a story that feels like home, cosy and filled with love, laughter, and family. I adored how Das didn’t shy away from diving into real, sometimes messy relationships while still keeping things lighthearted and fun. The book moves at a breezy pace, with short chapters that kept me turning pages late into the night. I simply couldn’t put it down.

In short, this book is the kind of book that leaves you with a big smile. It’s fast-paced, funny, and incredibly satisfying. If you’re looking for an escape into a world of love, family, and laughter, this book is the perfect choice. Trisha Das has created a rom-com with an irresistible Indian flair, and I’m already looking forward to reading more of her work. Whether you’re a fan of romance or simply love a good family story, The Grand Samara is bound to sweep you off your feet.

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