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Meant to be
In the lively city of Chandigarh, two hearts on the mend find themselves drawn together in the most unexpected ways. Manik, a reserved and thoughtful soul, has been nursing unrequited feelings for a girl who plays with his emotions like a game. Mahira, reeling from a recent breakup, has sworn off love. She masks her pain with humor and casual charm, determined to keep emotional entanglements at bay. What starts as fleeting moments during group hangouts slowly grows into something deeper. Manik, torn between his lingering heartbreak and this newfound connection, must decide whether to step into the unknown. And Mahira, equally hesitant to let her guard down, grapples with whether she’s ready to let someone in again. Told through their intertwining perspectives, Meant to Be is an emotionally charged journey of love, healing, and rediscovery. It’s realizing that sometimes, the love you’re searching for comes in the form of someone who quietly understands you—even before you understand yourself. Because maybe, just maybe, they were always meant to be.
300 pages, Paperback
Published December 23, 2024
1 person is currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Vishakha Rathour
1 book8 followersInstagram Handle : thewordcook
Hailing from Ludhiana, Punjab, she weaves tales of love, laughter, and friendship that linger long after the final page. Her passion for storytelling lies in crafting relatable characters and rich, emotional journeys that echo real-life experiences. Inspired by the magic of everyday moments, her writing brings to life characters that feel as familiar as your best friend or the person next door.
Hailing from Ludhiana, Punjab, she weaves tales of love, laughter, and friendship that linger long after the final page. Her passion for storytelling lies in crafting relatable characters and rich, emotional journeys that echo real-life experiences. Inspired by the magic of everyday moments, her writing brings to life characters that feel as familiar as your best friend or the person next door.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 24, 2025
While I was reading this book, I was struck by how colloquial the writing style was. But I was reading this along with a Hilary Mantel novel, so it was quite refreshing to read something that didn’t require me to reread sentences multiple times to grasp the meaning. It’s nice to enjoy a book simply for its vibe every now and then, right?
The story itself is quite relatable- it portrays a typical college love story with the common challenges that many young adults face.
This book is a light read that you can easily finish in one sitting. More than the literary quality, it’s the relatability that truly resonates. If you’re someone who doesn’t typically read but is looking to start, this would be an excellent choice (if romance is your preferred genre); it’s straightforward and easy to understand.
I would like to thank the author for sharing a copy of this book with me.
The story itself is quite relatable- it portrays a typical college love story with the common challenges that many young adults face.
This book is a light read that you can easily finish in one sitting. More than the literary quality, it’s the relatability that truly resonates. If you’re someone who doesn’t typically read but is looking to start, this would be an excellent choice (if romance is your preferred genre); it’s straightforward and easy to understand.
I would like to thank the author for sharing a copy of this book with me.
October 31, 2025
I'm gonna give a detailed review for this one
1. Perfect style of writing: it managed to draw the readers' attention and ensure that they ask for more
2. The plot was very articulate, as the scriptwriters say "a tight script"; there was literally no loophole/fault in the story.
3. The best part that there was a certain degree of maturity which is rare; especially since the book was not meant to be (and I mean this in the best way possible) a practical love story.
I really wish the author writes more books. There's no fucking way this is her first novel. The command on language begets a cerebral structure that's beyond her age.
1. Perfect style of writing: it managed to draw the readers' attention and ensure that they ask for more
2. The plot was very articulate, as the scriptwriters say "a tight script"; there was literally no loophole/fault in the story.
3. The best part that there was a certain degree of maturity which is rare; especially since the book was not meant to be (and I mean this in the best way possible) a practical love story.
I really wish the author writes more books. There's no fucking way this is her first novel. The command on language begets a cerebral structure that's beyond her age.
July 5, 2025
Meant to Be is one of those books that doesn’t try too hard to impress you , it simply exists, and gently wraps itself around your heart. Manik and Mahira aren’t perfect people.
They’re messy, guarded, hurting in their own ways and that’s what makes their story so real.
What I loved most is that nothing felt forced. The romance builds slowly, like trust. The emotions are raw but never loud. It’s not about grand gestures, it’s about late-night conversations, subtle glances, and being there for someone when they can’t say what they feel.
If you’ve ever loved quietly, lost painfully, or healed slowly… this book will find you.
They’re messy, guarded, hurting in their own ways and that’s what makes their story so real.
What I loved most is that nothing felt forced. The romance builds slowly, like trust. The emotions are raw but never loud. It’s not about grand gestures, it’s about late-night conversations, subtle glances, and being there for someone when they can’t say what they feel.
If you’ve ever loved quietly, lost painfully, or healed slowly… this book will find you.
June 3, 2025
“It feels like I’ve known him forever, like our bodies have known each other’s touch.”
Meant to Be
Author: Vishakha Rathour
Prepare for an emotional journey that feels utterly real.
The story, set in Chandigarh, revolves around Manik and Mahira, both scarred by past romantic disappointments.
Manik is a reserved and thoughtful person still grappling with unrequited feelings, while Mahira, healing from a recent breakup, uses humor and charm as a shield against further emotional entanglement.
Manik struggle lies in letting go of emotional baggage and embracing the present.
I loved the friendship between Manik and Shubham a lot.
Mahira grapples with the idea of letting someone in again after being hurt by her ex Karan.
Their paths cross during group hangouts, and what begins as casual interactions slowly blossoms into a deeper connection.
The novel truly shines with its innovative dual perspective, immersing readers directly into the thoughts and feelings of both protagonists. The dual perspective provides an intimate, personal insight into characters' minds, struggles, and development.
The novel explores their individual journeys of healing and rediscovery as they cautiously open up to the possibility of new love.
The core of the story lies in Manik's decision to overcome his lingering heartbreak and Mahira's battle to lower her guard and embrace new love.
Their individual journeys of healing run parallel throughout the novel. Through their connection, they find mutual solace and understanding, as each recognizes their own struggles reflected in the other.
The characters' emotional journeys are seen as relatable and authentic, built on genuine conversations and quiet companionship rather than dramatic gestures.
Their love story grows organically through shared moments and vulnerability.
The book is noted for its smooth writing and good pacing, keeping readers hooked from start to finish.
The book highlights the courage it takes to be vulnerable after being hurt from past relationships.
The author does a great job of conveying the emotions in the book. The characters felt so real, keeping the reader invested in their journey.
The book teaches us that love is about healing, vulnerability, and genuine understanding, built on a solid connection rather than momentary infatuation.
Chandigarh's vibrant depiction will evoke nostalgia for your own college days, especially through Mahira and Manik's hangouts, dates, and trips.
If you're in the mood for a heartfelt and genuine romance that will leave you feeling truly satisfied, this is for you.
"Finally, a love story that's heartfelt and genuinely realistic
Meant to Be
Author: Vishakha Rathour
Prepare for an emotional journey that feels utterly real.
The story, set in Chandigarh, revolves around Manik and Mahira, both scarred by past romantic disappointments.
Manik is a reserved and thoughtful person still grappling with unrequited feelings, while Mahira, healing from a recent breakup, uses humor and charm as a shield against further emotional entanglement.
Manik struggle lies in letting go of emotional baggage and embracing the present.
I loved the friendship between Manik and Shubham a lot.
Mahira grapples with the idea of letting someone in again after being hurt by her ex Karan.
Their paths cross during group hangouts, and what begins as casual interactions slowly blossoms into a deeper connection.
The novel truly shines with its innovative dual perspective, immersing readers directly into the thoughts and feelings of both protagonists. The dual perspective provides an intimate, personal insight into characters' minds, struggles, and development.
The novel explores their individual journeys of healing and rediscovery as they cautiously open up to the possibility of new love.
The core of the story lies in Manik's decision to overcome his lingering heartbreak and Mahira's battle to lower her guard and embrace new love.
Their individual journeys of healing run parallel throughout the novel. Through their connection, they find mutual solace and understanding, as each recognizes their own struggles reflected in the other.
The characters' emotional journeys are seen as relatable and authentic, built on genuine conversations and quiet companionship rather than dramatic gestures.
Their love story grows organically through shared moments and vulnerability.
The book is noted for its smooth writing and good pacing, keeping readers hooked from start to finish.
The book highlights the courage it takes to be vulnerable after being hurt from past relationships.
The author does a great job of conveying the emotions in the book. The characters felt so real, keeping the reader invested in their journey.
The book teaches us that love is about healing, vulnerability, and genuine understanding, built on a solid connection rather than momentary infatuation.
Chandigarh's vibrant depiction will evoke nostalgia for your own college days, especially through Mahira and Manik's hangouts, dates, and trips.
If you're in the mood for a heartfelt and genuine romance that will leave you feeling truly satisfied, this is for you.
"Finally, a love story that's heartfelt and genuinely realistic
September 28, 2025
MEANT TO BE by Vishakha Rathour💚
Rating: 3⭐
This book was a decent yet heartwarming read.😇
The story follows two college students, Mahira, a cheerful and witty girl with a carefree outlook, and Manik, a shy yet sweet boy. Manik struggles with his unrequited feelings for Ankita, a fellow classmate who gives him mixed signals, leaving him with a deep fear of rejection. On the other hand, Mahira is still healing from a recent breakup, burdened by trust and abandonment issues.
When Mahira and Manik cross paths through mutual friends, it’s love at first sight for Manik.🥰 While he finds himself drawn to her, his insecurities hold him back from opening up. Mahira too feels the spark, but her hesitations and emotional scars make her reluctant to step into anything serious. As the story unfolds, the two slowly begin to navigate their feelings, growing closer despite their emotional fears, and eventually finding their way to a sweet, happy ending.❤️
The book beautifully captured the innocence of young love, the stolen glances, nervous butterflies, accidental touches, and plenty of blush-worthy moments.😊 Mahira’s character stood out for me. Her lively personality and sarcastic comebacks made her such a vibe.✨ Manik, on the other hand, was the picture of sweetness, with his shy demeanor and thoughtful gestures. I appreciated how both of them tried to understand each other’s struggles, though at times I wished their conversations had gone deeper. I felt there could have been more open communication between them, as certain misunderstandings dragged on unnecessarily, causing individual hurt.❤️🩹
While the writing style was flowy and engaging (I especially enjoyed Mahira’s dialogues), I did find the pacing a little slow in places. The cute moments were definitely a delight, but the plot as a whole didn’t fully hook me the way I hoped.😌
Overall, this was a decent read, with moments that made me smile. Thank you, Vishakha Rathour, for sending me a copy!!💛
Rating: 3⭐
This book was a decent yet heartwarming read.😇
The story follows two college students, Mahira, a cheerful and witty girl with a carefree outlook, and Manik, a shy yet sweet boy. Manik struggles with his unrequited feelings for Ankita, a fellow classmate who gives him mixed signals, leaving him with a deep fear of rejection. On the other hand, Mahira is still healing from a recent breakup, burdened by trust and abandonment issues.
When Mahira and Manik cross paths through mutual friends, it’s love at first sight for Manik.🥰 While he finds himself drawn to her, his insecurities hold him back from opening up. Mahira too feels the spark, but her hesitations and emotional scars make her reluctant to step into anything serious. As the story unfolds, the two slowly begin to navigate their feelings, growing closer despite their emotional fears, and eventually finding their way to a sweet, happy ending.❤️
The book beautifully captured the innocence of young love, the stolen glances, nervous butterflies, accidental touches, and plenty of blush-worthy moments.😊 Mahira’s character stood out for me. Her lively personality and sarcastic comebacks made her such a vibe.✨ Manik, on the other hand, was the picture of sweetness, with his shy demeanor and thoughtful gestures. I appreciated how both of them tried to understand each other’s struggles, though at times I wished their conversations had gone deeper. I felt there could have been more open communication between them, as certain misunderstandings dragged on unnecessarily, causing individual hurt.❤️🩹
While the writing style was flowy and engaging (I especially enjoyed Mahira’s dialogues), I did find the pacing a little slow in places. The cute moments were definitely a delight, but the plot as a whole didn’t fully hook me the way I hoped.😌
Overall, this was a decent read, with moments that made me smile. Thank you, Vishakha Rathour, for sending me a copy!!💛
September 8, 2025
Meant to be 🍀 by Vishakha Rathour @thewordcook
Book review 🛶🐢
Mahira and Manik’s love story. Manik believes in the universe and fate. Mahira is a practical soul, on the other hand. Will both of them let go of their pasts and cherish what they clearly have?
I downright devoured this book in a span of 24 hours. I have to admit I had a bit of trouble at the start but I was hooked the moment Mahira and Manik’s story started. I wanted to know how it all went down between them.
It is a love story of two people who come together at the most unexpected time. It is as normal and realistic as a love story can get. With just the right amount of magic✨ . It all starts when Naina, Mahira’s roommate and Manik’s best friend unwittingly goes on to set up both of them together. What starts as a few innocent group hangouts turns into a cute little relationship. I loved to watch their friendship blossom into something higher. It was the sweetest thing ever. Manik is such a sweetheart. I was blushing the whole time.
Want to read a slow burn romance that actually feels like your own love story? Read this. It will give you all the tingles.
I felt the ending was a bit rushed. I could have done with a little more of Mahira and Manik. But I totally loved the story. I also loved the Mahira Ananaya and Naina trio. Girl friendships are the best!!
I hope you get around to reading this book. It will be a great read! Let me know if you do ^^
P.s.- this book feels exactly like this song 👀 Dimple and Vikram! In chandigarh!
Book review 🛶🐢
Mahira and Manik’s love story. Manik believes in the universe and fate. Mahira is a practical soul, on the other hand. Will both of them let go of their pasts and cherish what they clearly have?
I downright devoured this book in a span of 24 hours. I have to admit I had a bit of trouble at the start but I was hooked the moment Mahira and Manik’s story started. I wanted to know how it all went down between them.
It is a love story of two people who come together at the most unexpected time. It is as normal and realistic as a love story can get. With just the right amount of magic✨ . It all starts when Naina, Mahira’s roommate and Manik’s best friend unwittingly goes on to set up both of them together. What starts as a few innocent group hangouts turns into a cute little relationship. I loved to watch their friendship blossom into something higher. It was the sweetest thing ever. Manik is such a sweetheart. I was blushing the whole time.
Want to read a slow burn romance that actually feels like your own love story? Read this. It will give you all the tingles.
I felt the ending was a bit rushed. I could have done with a little more of Mahira and Manik. But I totally loved the story. I also loved the Mahira Ananaya and Naina trio. Girl friendships are the best!!
I hope you get around to reading this book. It will be a great read! Let me know if you do ^^
P.s.- this book feels exactly like this song 👀 Dimple and Vikram! In chandigarh!
September 12, 2025
It’s a story that reminds you: sometimes, love doesn’t arrive with fireworks.
There’s something incredibly comforting about a romance that takes its time, not just in the way love blooms, but in how the characters grow into it. Meant to Be is exactly that kind of story, slow, soulful, and grounded in emotional realism.
At the heart of the novel are Manik and Mahira, two very different individuals, yet unknowingly carrying similar emotional baggage. Manik is the quiet, emotionally guarded type, the kind who keeps his feelings tucked away under layers of restraint. Mahira, on the other hand, is sunshine on the surface, playful, outgoing, quick with a joke, but her cheerfulness masks an unresolved ache of her own.
What I really liked is how the book doesn’t rush into love or lean into dramatic clichés. The romance here is subtle and believable. It’s built not on grand gestures but on quiet companionship, honest conversations, and those small, tender moments that feel more intimate than anything loud or over-the-top. The writing style is simple, yet emotionally resonant. It switches between both characters’ perspectives, which gives you a chance to truly understand where each of them is coming from, their fears, their hesitations, and how their connection evolves over time. The dual narrative doesn’t just move the story forward, it helps you feel it.
If you enjoy character-led romances, stories where healing and connection go hand in hand, and relationships that are more about emotional compatibility than just surface-level attraction, Meant to Be is worth picking up.
There’s something incredibly comforting about a romance that takes its time, not just in the way love blooms, but in how the characters grow into it. Meant to Be is exactly that kind of story, slow, soulful, and grounded in emotional realism.
At the heart of the novel are Manik and Mahira, two very different individuals, yet unknowingly carrying similar emotional baggage. Manik is the quiet, emotionally guarded type, the kind who keeps his feelings tucked away under layers of restraint. Mahira, on the other hand, is sunshine on the surface, playful, outgoing, quick with a joke, but her cheerfulness masks an unresolved ache of her own.
What I really liked is how the book doesn’t rush into love or lean into dramatic clichés. The romance here is subtle and believable. It’s built not on grand gestures but on quiet companionship, honest conversations, and those small, tender moments that feel more intimate than anything loud or over-the-top. The writing style is simple, yet emotionally resonant. It switches between both characters’ perspectives, which gives you a chance to truly understand where each of them is coming from, their fears, their hesitations, and how their connection evolves over time. The dual narrative doesn’t just move the story forward, it helps you feel it.
If you enjoy character-led romances, stories where healing and connection go hand in hand, and relationships that are more about emotional compatibility than just surface-level attraction, Meant to Be is worth picking up.
December 20, 2025
🍁Book:- Meant to be
🍁Author:- Vishakha Rathour
🍁Publication:- Self Published
🍁Printed Price:- Rs. 405/-
"Because sometimes, the most unexpected journeys lead you to exactly where you belong."
Some love stories are arranged which seems to look perfect and then there are some which just happens flawlessly and proves that unplanned moments are the best undoubtedly. "Meant to be" by Vishakha Rathour is a heartfelt romance novel which deals with heartbreak, love, healing, hope and friendship. Set against the cozy city of Chandigarh, the book provides its readers a beautiful college romance and friends to lovers tropes.
Mahira and Manik, the protagonists of the novel, met each other in the college during a friends group encounter for the first time but it didn't start then and there; rather it brewed gradually. Mahira was recovering from a recent break up while Manik was suffering from unrequited love and both of them weren't ready to agree with the destiny's decision. What happened next? How did they realize they were meant to be together?
The book is very simple in terms of presentation and storytelling and that's why it feels relatable. It is written from both the protagonists' perspectives and this narrative technique really helps to understand their respective point of views. The chapters are very short which keeps the reading session engaging. Readers, who want to read a book which lacks of excessive drama and has an entertaining vibe, can read this book.
🍁Author:- Vishakha Rathour
🍁Publication:- Self Published
🍁Printed Price:- Rs. 405/-
"Because sometimes, the most unexpected journeys lead you to exactly where you belong."
Some love stories are arranged which seems to look perfect and then there are some which just happens flawlessly and proves that unplanned moments are the best undoubtedly. "Meant to be" by Vishakha Rathour is a heartfelt romance novel which deals with heartbreak, love, healing, hope and friendship. Set against the cozy city of Chandigarh, the book provides its readers a beautiful college romance and friends to lovers tropes.
Mahira and Manik, the protagonists of the novel, met each other in the college during a friends group encounter for the first time but it didn't start then and there; rather it brewed gradually. Mahira was recovering from a recent break up while Manik was suffering from unrequited love and both of them weren't ready to agree with the destiny's decision. What happened next? How did they realize they were meant to be together?
The book is very simple in terms of presentation and storytelling and that's why it feels relatable. It is written from both the protagonists' perspectives and this narrative technique really helps to understand their respective point of views. The chapters are very short which keeps the reading session engaging. Readers, who want to read a book which lacks of excessive drama and has an entertaining vibe, can read this book.
May 19, 2025
“A heartfelt debut that captures the warmth of love and the pain of letting go.”💫
.
.
Meant to Be by Vishakha Rathour is a tender,emotional story that gently pulls you into its world.The writing has a soothing simplicity to it,and the author does a lovely job portraying the raw emotions that come with love,loss and destiny.🫶
.
.
What I really enjoyed was the sincerity in the characters.They feel real and relatable,especially in how they deal with misunderstandings and heartbreak.
Manik is withdrawn and emotionally scarred,weighed down by the pain of past love,while Mahira masks her own heartbreak with a vibrant,carefree personality. Their unexpected meeting leads to a slow-burning connection built on trust and shared vulnerability. Vishakha Rathour skillfully avoids typical romantic tropes,instead letting their relationship grow through quiet moments,honest conversations and an authenticity that makes their bond feel both tender and real.💕
.
.
That said,a few parts could have been more fleshed out.Certain scenes felt a little too quick and I found myself wanting a bit more buildup in the romance and character depth.🎀
.
.
Still,for a debut,this book has a lot of heart and if you’re someone who enjoys soft romances with emotional highs and lows,this is definitely worth a read.I’m excited to see what the author writes next!❤️
.
.
Meant to Be by Vishakha Rathour is a tender,emotional story that gently pulls you into its world.The writing has a soothing simplicity to it,and the author does a lovely job portraying the raw emotions that come with love,loss and destiny.🫶
.
.
What I really enjoyed was the sincerity in the characters.They feel real and relatable,especially in how they deal with misunderstandings and heartbreak.
Manik is withdrawn and emotionally scarred,weighed down by the pain of past love,while Mahira masks her own heartbreak with a vibrant,carefree personality. Their unexpected meeting leads to a slow-burning connection built on trust and shared vulnerability. Vishakha Rathour skillfully avoids typical romantic tropes,instead letting their relationship grow through quiet moments,honest conversations and an authenticity that makes their bond feel both tender and real.💕
.
.
That said,a few parts could have been more fleshed out.Certain scenes felt a little too quick and I found myself wanting a bit more buildup in the romance and character depth.🎀
.
.
Still,for a debut,this book has a lot of heart and if you’re someone who enjoys soft romances with emotional highs and lows,this is definitely worth a read.I’m excited to see what the author writes next!❤️
September 29, 2025
Sometimes the simplest love story is attacked that stay with you the longest. Mens to be by Vishakha Rathore is such a story that follows Manik and Mahira, two individual in Chandigarh who are tending to their own heart breaks as they find their way to each other.
Manik is going through unrquittted feeling for a girl who enjoys playing with his emotions, where is Mahira is fresh from a breakup and has sworn off love. The two meet through mutual friends and what started as regular friends hangout turns out with something more.
The story feel so much grounded in the Indian setting with hangouts, friendship, hard break and casual conversations that really show how young love unfolds in actual life. With alternating factors between mawra and Manik, we get to experience both the feeling of unrequated love and The hestitancy of opening up after heart break.
Romance in this book is my favourite type which is not over dramatic. It bills through small moments which makes this book feel very organic than filmy. The author very smartly sprinkles some wit and humor in the book to balance out the heavy themes. It very beautiful and truthfully captures the reality of modern relationship.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with Indian setting which is slowborn, Meant To Be is the right choice.
Manik is going through unrquittted feeling for a girl who enjoys playing with his emotions, where is Mahira is fresh from a breakup and has sworn off love. The two meet through mutual friends and what started as regular friends hangout turns out with something more.
The story feel so much grounded in the Indian setting with hangouts, friendship, hard break and casual conversations that really show how young love unfolds in actual life. With alternating factors between mawra and Manik, we get to experience both the feeling of unrequated love and The hestitancy of opening up after heart break.
Romance in this book is my favourite type which is not over dramatic. It bills through small moments which makes this book feel very organic than filmy. The author very smartly sprinkles some wit and humor in the book to balance out the heavy themes. It very beautiful and truthfully captures the reality of modern relationship.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with Indian setting which is slowborn, Meant To Be is the right choice.
November 25, 2025
Meant to Be by Vishakha Rathour is a light and charming college romance that explores the Japanese phrase "Koi No Yokan" which means the feeling of knowing you are destined to fall in love with someone. The story follows Mahira and Manik, two college mates brought together by their common friend Naina. They feel an instant pull toward each other, yet hesitate owing to previous heartbreaks. This is a story of two young hearts overcoming their past to fall in love all over again.
I loved how the author used a dual narrative to show how both protagonists perceive the same events. Each chapter began by revisiting the other’s perspective before gently moving the story forward, which added emotional depth. The short chapters and engaging narration made it an easy read, holding my attention throughout. Although the plot felt somewhat predictable and the number of supporting characters occasionally distracted from the main storyline, the chemistry between Mahira and Manik made up for it. Through the book, Vishakha Rathour captured the essence of youthful love with enough warmth and tenderness.
Set in Chandigarh, the book evoked nostalgia in me as I have a special connection to the place. I loved revisiting the City Beautiful through its pages.
For readers new to the romance genre (as I am), Meant to Be would be a sweet, breezy read that will leave the heart a little lighter.
I loved how the author used a dual narrative to show how both protagonists perceive the same events. Each chapter began by revisiting the other’s perspective before gently moving the story forward, which added emotional depth. The short chapters and engaging narration made it an easy read, holding my attention throughout. Although the plot felt somewhat predictable and the number of supporting characters occasionally distracted from the main storyline, the chemistry between Mahira and Manik made up for it. Through the book, Vishakha Rathour captured the essence of youthful love with enough warmth and tenderness.
Set in Chandigarh, the book evoked nostalgia in me as I have a special connection to the place. I loved revisiting the City Beautiful through its pages.
For readers new to the romance genre (as I am), Meant to Be would be a sweet, breezy read that will leave the heart a little lighter.
September 9, 2025
I’m absolutely obsessed with this book! It’s the kind of slow-burn romance that feels incredibly real—no forced insta-love, just an organic, emotional journey that pulls you in little by little. The characters are so relatable that it almost feels like you’re walking alongside them, and their struggles are written with such honesty that some parts genuinely broke my heart.
What stood out most to me is how the author didn’t just give us a love story, but also wove in real-life issues with sensitivity and care. Nothing felt shallow or brushed over; instead, it was layered and thoughtful, making the whole story that much more meaningful.
The writing itself is beautiful—engaging, fluid, and effortless to read. Dialogue feels natural, the emotions hit hard, and the pacing is perfect for a slow-burn romance. It’s the kind of book that sneaks up on you, and before you know it, you’re completely immersed in the world and deeply invested in the characters.
If you’re someone who enjoys romance novels that go beyond clichés and actually make you feel all the feels, this is absolutely a must-read. It’s touching, heartfelt, and the kind of story that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page. Trust me—you won’t regret picking this one up!
What stood out most to me is how the author didn’t just give us a love story, but also wove in real-life issues with sensitivity and care. Nothing felt shallow or brushed over; instead, it was layered and thoughtful, making the whole story that much more meaningful.
The writing itself is beautiful—engaging, fluid, and effortless to read. Dialogue feels natural, the emotions hit hard, and the pacing is perfect for a slow-burn romance. It’s the kind of book that sneaks up on you, and before you know it, you’re completely immersed in the world and deeply invested in the characters.
If you’re someone who enjoys romance novels that go beyond clichés and actually make you feel all the feels, this is absolutely a must-read. It’s touching, heartfelt, and the kind of story that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page. Trust me—you won’t regret picking this one up!
September 14, 2025
First things first 🫠I finally finished a book after so long, and oh God, I missed reading!
Now coming back to the book🤭it’s such a cute read. You know that vibe when the guy is shy and innocent, and the girl is all wild, fun, and full of energy? That’s exactly what this book gives. I don’t know how to explain it better but yeah, Manik is adorable. Total lover boy energy. And Mahira? She’s like a sunshine girl, trying to move on from her past.
It’s got everything🤝friends chilling, a friends’ trip to Shimla, those nostalgic college days (literally the best part!), casual little dates, and so much more. And the way Manik puts in effort🤌gifting her a book, her favorite flowers? That’s 10/10 boyfriend behavior. Honestly, I appreciate Manik on behalf of all the girls out there!
The last few chapters? Pure aww moments. They truly felt meant to be.
And yes😌it’s a slow burn. But is it worth it? Absolutely yessss! 💗
Now coming back to the book🤭it’s such a cute read. You know that vibe when the guy is shy and innocent, and the girl is all wild, fun, and full of energy? That’s exactly what this book gives. I don’t know how to explain it better but yeah, Manik is adorable. Total lover boy energy. And Mahira? She’s like a sunshine girl, trying to move on from her past.
It’s got everything🤝friends chilling, a friends’ trip to Shimla, those nostalgic college days (literally the best part!), casual little dates, and so much more. And the way Manik puts in effort🤌gifting her a book, her favorite flowers? That’s 10/10 boyfriend behavior. Honestly, I appreciate Manik on behalf of all the girls out there!
The last few chapters? Pure aww moments. They truly felt meant to be.
And yes😌it’s a slow burn. But is it worth it? Absolutely yessss! 💗
September 25, 2025
Some stories don’t just entertain you, they stay with you—Meant To Be by Vishakha Rathour is exactly that kind of book. A beautifully written romance, it feels both tender and real, making you fall in love with the characters as if they were people you actually know. The writing flows effortlessly, painting emotions in such a relatable way that you find yourself smiling, sighing, and even pausing to reread the lines that touch your heart.
What makes this novel stand out is not just the love story, but the way it explores connection, destiny, and the little details that make relationships magical. As a book lover, I can say this isn’t just a romance—it’s a reminder of how powerful love can be when it feels truly meant to be. A must-read for anyone who believes in the magic of love and storytelling
What makes this novel stand out is not just the love story, but the way it explores connection, destiny, and the little details that make relationships magical. As a book lover, I can say this isn’t just a romance—it’s a reminder of how powerful love can be when it feels truly meant to be. A must-read for anyone who believes in the magic of love and storytelling
October 6, 2025
Meant To Be by Vishakha Rathour
“Meant To Be” is one of the cutest and coziest reads I’ve come across recently. It’s a heartwarming college romance that perfectly blends comfort, emotions, and slow-burn love.
I absolutely loved Manik’s character — he gives those green forest vibes, calm, grounded, and pure. The way he cares for Mahira and loves her selflessly, even when he’s unsure whether she would love him back, was so beautiful to read. Their chemistry felt so real and soft; it honestly kept me hooked till the very end.
Overall, it’s one of the sweetest books I’ve ever read. If you love slow-burn, second chance romance with wholesome characters and pure emotions, this book truly feels meant to be. 💚
“Meant To Be” is one of the cutest and coziest reads I’ve come across recently. It’s a heartwarming college romance that perfectly blends comfort, emotions, and slow-burn love.
I absolutely loved Manik’s character — he gives those green forest vibes, calm, grounded, and pure. The way he cares for Mahira and loves her selflessly, even when he’s unsure whether she would love him back, was so beautiful to read. Their chemistry felt so real and soft; it honestly kept me hooked till the very end.
Overall, it’s one of the sweetest books I’ve ever read. If you love slow-burn, second chance romance with wholesome characters and pure emotions, this book truly feels meant to be. 💚
September 9, 2025
Vishakha Rathour has a beautiful way with words. Her writing felt natural and heartfelt. The dual perspective—shifting between Manik and Mahira—added depth to the story and helped me understand both sides of their journey.
Overall, Meant to Be isn’t just a love story; it’s about growth, trust, and learning to love yourself before you can truly love someone else. If you're into contemporary romance that actually has emotional depth and real character development, this book is worth your time.
Overall, Meant to Be isn’t just a love story; it’s about growth, trust, and learning to love yourself before you can truly love someone else. If you're into contemporary romance that actually has emotional depth and real character development, this book is worth your time.
September 16, 2025
When I first started reading this book, it was like watching a Rom-com. So light hearted, so relatable. A story that'll take you back to your college days. Characters so comforting that'll make you feel like you're reading about yourself and your friends. No extravagant drama, just pure emotions and love that's heartwarming. A good read!
September 26, 2025
I finished the book overnight and I loved it so much.❤️ The writing was so good & felt like I was watching a rom-com movie. This book had me giggling, feeling butterflies, crying, all kind of emotions at once. Such a cute read.🤌💕
December 21, 2025
Such a good and cozy read for winters
I loved how manik was such a gentlemen all the time the kind of fictional men we pray for
This book is not only about love but also about friendships and life i absolutely loved it💗
I loved how manik was such a gentlemen all the time the kind of fictional men we pray for
This book is not only about love but also about friendships and life i absolutely loved it💗
July 30, 2025
One of the best books ♥️
September 9, 2025
Love, destiny, and heart all wrapped in one unforgettable story- Mahira and Manik. A quick read that leaves you smiling and believing in fate’s timing. ♥️🫶🏻Must-read!
September 10, 2025
The romantic connection between a couple gets overlooked with a newborn. Reading this book has helped rekindle that spark for me. It's like an escape for when life gets overwhelming.
September 10, 2025
Loved the details in this book ❤️ Don’t think twice and just read it.
September 10, 2025
Have read such a cutesy romance after so long👌
September 10, 2025
An emotional, heartfelt read that celebrates love in all its forms. Just love this book and would recommend it to everyone .
September 11, 2025
My very first read. love it💕
September 11, 2025
Must read. Very engaging story telling and interesting book.
September 11, 2025
A light hearted and crisp read. Narration felt surprisingly fresh. The pacing is spot-on, keeping you hooked from start to end. Youthful vibes, adorable characters, highly recommend!
September 12, 2025
The story wraps you in comfort, reminding you of the sweetness in simple moments.
It’s tender, heartfelt, and leaves you with that fluttery feeling of being in love.
It’s tender, heartfelt, and leaves you with that fluttery feeling of being in love.
September 11, 2025
One of my favourites, obviously. Love Manik and Mahira and their chemistry.
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