She's the girl he was never meant to love. He’s the man she was raised to hate. Now they’re bound in a marriage neither of them chose. And resisting each other may be the one war they’re destined to lose.
Siya Kashyap lived by rules of power and duty, until she broke them for her rival. Abhay was her first love, her forbidden desire, and trusting him with her heart nearly destroyed her.
Abhay Agrawal was born into privilege, but all the power in the world couldn’t bring back the one woman who became both his salvation and his ruin. Siya was his undoing, his temptation, and the obsession he’d burn the world for.
Now, years later, their families strike a ruthless bargain, binding them in an arranged marriage neither can refuse. What begins as a cold alliance erupts into a battle of wills, where every word is a weapon and every touch is destined to consume them, but the war between their families still burns in the shadows.
When history threatens to repeat itself and dangerous secrets come to light, Siya and Abhay must decide: Will they break the chains of legacy and vengeance, or lose the only love that was ever worth the cost?
If you crave enemies-to-lovers obsession, a ruthless billionaire who’d burn the world for her, and an arranged marriage where hate and desire collide, Since the Night We Met will consume you.
Kajal Rai lives in Mumbai, India, and holds a postgraduate degree in literature. Storytelling has always been her true calling. Her debut novel, Since You Came Along, marks the beginning of her journey as an author, and she is already working on the second book in the Ever Since series.
Her love for words extends beyond novels. She has published poetry, micro-fiction tales, and short stories. She has also co-authored the novella On a Journey of Life. A hopeless romantic at heart, Kajal firmly believes in happily-ever-afters, which is why she just can’t seem to write any other way.
When she’s not crafting love stories, she is immersed in books herself, whether it’s romance, fantasy, or explorations of human psychology. She hopes to contribute to a world where love is love and where everyone can be who they are without fear or judgement.
When I first downloaded the book on my Kindle, I was conflicted whether to dive straight into reading it or wait two or three days before starting. Because I knew from the very start that once I began this book and finished it, I was going to be overwhelmed and missing them like crazy.
I knew this book was going to be the ruin of me, just like Abhay is the ruin of Siya and Siya is the ruin of Abhay. This book is the ruin of me.
Ever since I read Since You Came Along, I’ve been waiting for this one like an exuberant idiot. The chemistry between the two of them is so good that you can’t stop blushing; you can’t stop finding yourself placing a hand on your chest and saying, breathe, calm down, heart. They have that much chemistry.
There isn’t a single scene where both Abhay and Siya are in the same room and I haven’t laughed, smiled, or cried. The scenes are always woven with such emotional intricacy that you crave more — you feel like you're a part of their world.
I loved the found-family trope so much. I was laughing so hard, thinking, damn, they’re idiots — but they’re my idiots. It was so fun to watch everyone around them guessing what’s going on, what’s happened between them, and then suddenly getting the news that they’re getting hitched! From placing bets on them to coming up with weird, crazy theories to teasing them in front of everyone — it was spectacular. It was humorous. And it reminded me that, at the end of the day, the people who are with you, your found family, are the ones who truly matter.
This book ignited my hidden rage. As an elder daughter myself, I could relate to Siya on a spiritual level. I was like, oh my god, Siya is me. This book triggered my anger. It had my blood boiling. I just wanted to grab a bat, grab a heavy stone, forget weapons, and march across the room to her father and slap him so hard that he forgets where he is.
I was so enraged. He is the human equivalent of a cockroach. And honestly, why even insult cockroaches? Even if he goes to hell, the guards there will shut their doors saying, we don’t want that much garbage here; we already have enough. We don’t need ten times more.
Kashvi and Swayam — how I wish I could get their book right now and devour it. Their chemistry is so sunshine x sunshine coded, they remind me of Rancho and Piya from 3 Idiots. They are love >>> You definitely don’t want to miss the little teaser the author provided at the end of the book. Those slow-burn moments, the small gestures, the sneaky little touches — they had me weak for real.
Coming back to STNWM, this book has its charm, and I don’t know what I’ll do now that I have to wait another year for the next one in the series.
And that’s why, ladies and gentlemen, it’s said that patience is a virtue, and we should probably pay heed to it.
Men written by Kajal Rai are lush green forests, and Abhay is no less than a whole Amazon jungle. He is so sweet. He is so adorable. I know that isn’t the correct description for him, but to me, he is so adorable, he is so sweet — a boy with a golden heart.
He would literally do anything for his loved ones. He wears his heart on his sleeve. He cherished Siya. He worshipped the ground she walked on. That’s how much devotion he had for her.
There were scenes in the book where he was angry, but not because she broke his heart, not because she hurt him. He was angry because she was hurting herself. He was angry because she was treating herself badly.
Siya — she is the perfect eldest daughter, the fiercest woman I’ve read. She is the epitome of a girl boss. She’s that person you need to have in your life. She’s the person you can trust with anything, the one you know will always have your back.
Her love for Kashvi was seriously unmeasured. It was so sweet, so beautiful to see the sisters’ bond, and Meehu being fiercely protective of them — it was so wholesome watching the three of them together.
There were scenes in the book where — okay, no spoilers, I’m not gonna spoil it. Just wanna say, go and read the book 🤍
Last but not the least — “Abhi na jao chhod kar, ke dil abhi bhara nahi.”
I think I literally fell in LOVE with this book and Abhay & Siya's love story for sure!! 😌
From the very first page of this book, I was captivated with the storyline and specially how easy it was to read and follow along. It felt effortless to read their story, that's how good the author's writing is. 💯
Talking about the story development and overall character arc, it's really well-presented and I really loved how the author has represented all the family issues and how one can create a family without blood connections too. ❤️🩹
Let's talk about our main characters, ABHAY and SIYA. I really loved how SIYA's character build-up up was done throughout the book and how her journey was overall represented even the past. And how she grew into a person of such admiration, love and strength. 🥺
Now, ABHAY. I'm pretty sure, author took her lovely time writing him and building him, cause the MAN he is, is a dream come true. Obviously for the right woman. But a MAN like him, who takes accountability for his mistakes, work on redemming himself and yet stands by your side, gives you power, you didn't know you had. A true MAN at its core. 🙌🏻
What i loved the most in the book is the FOUND FAMILY trope. It's so well represented and I'm literally looming forward to reading Kashvi's story next. So excited for it. 😌
Thank you, Kalestial Media for the review copy. Beyond grateful. 🥰
Abhay and Siya, two people with pasts so secretive, not even a soul knows their truth. And yet, fate ties them together by their fathers… in a sacred bond of marriage. Rivalries turned rishtedari! 💍
What follows is emotion, heartbreak, ache, and love. The way Kajal has written their story~ the depth, the intensity, the flashbacks, oh my God!!! How beautifully it all unfolds. 🌙
Her writing has grown so much since the last book; the evolution is incredible. The character arcs? Stunning. The found family element? She writes it like no one else, i mean truly, the best! 🕯️Plus, the backstory? Oh Goodness! Loved it 🥰
She’s also touched upon some deep, layered, and emotional topics with such grace, I absolutely loved that part.
I started this book for Abhay but fell hard for Siya! Kudos to the author for writing her character so gracefully 🥹🪷…..
Siya will be one of the top 5 female leads I have come across and mainly because I relate to her coz I myself am an elder daughter, so things made sense!!!!
The twists and turns are going to break your heart! You need tissues coz you are going to sob for her, for everything she goes through but the ending wow her Character development was Woooowwww!!!!
If you love stories that break you and heal you at the same time, this book is for you. 💫
Screaming, Crying, having a whole flood of emotions because the book left me blank and speechless with probably nowhere to go anymore cuz a book this awesome? I have never ever read a book this fine. A truly unforgettable journey following the lives of Abhay Agrawal and Siya Kashyap.
They were once strangers who became lovers and then became enemies and then became lovers again! Can you imagine the emotional roller coaster I rode reading this book?
I was overwhelmed with the amount of emotions that hit me like a flood gate broken and the water just striking you and making you drown in them 😭.
I thought it will be just another love story but no this wasn't just a love story. This was a full on action packed love story dealing with trauma, grief, betrayal, heartbreak, laughs, cries everything.
Each and every character was so well written that I couldn't help but fall in love with them except the villains of course. But obviously no books are complete without villains so let's give them a rest lol.
Moving on, I have been waiting for this book for so many Months that it felt like I was waiting for a whole decade or even a century 😭 but oh good Lord this book was so worth it.
Abhay and Siya come from worlds shaped by secrets, pain, and family rivalries and and when fate binds them in marriage, it’s anything but simple. Their story is layered with heartbreak, yearning, and is so emotional. The flashbacks more intentional, and the character are so incredibly satisfying.I love a good found family dynamic. It brings warmth and grounding to a story. Siya Kashyap is such a strong female lead. Her choices and sacrifices hits hard. Abhay’s love is protective, and unwavering. Their chemistry burns slow, aching, and intense. The twists will hurt, the middle will break you, and the ending will gently put you back together.
My rating is a full 5/5. It was that mindblowingly awesome🤯🤩
Kajal Rai didn’t just write a book—she served up a wild mix of Bollywood drama, K-drama vibes, a dash of therapy, and a full-blown emotional meltdown. I devoured every page, didn’t even blink, and honestly, I’m still hungry for more.😋😁
Let’s talk about Siya Kashyap. This woman? She’s unstoppable. Not only does she design jewelry that would make Cartier sweat, she’s also a lawyer out there.That’s pure boss energy.💥
Now, her Father, Kartik “I ruin everything I touch” Kashyap (formerly Sharma—don’t even get me started on the nerve), is basically the final boss of toxic parents. Greedy, manipulative, allergic to decency. The man tormented Siya, sold her late mother’s ring, and used her little sister as leverage.
Honestly, I want to throw him into a volcano.🌋
And Siya? She keeps trying. All she wants is her dad’s love, just a scrap of approval. What does he give her? Pain. But does she fold? Not a chance. She sharpens up, shines even brighter, and by the end, she’s just like, “Old man. I’ll blaze my own trial.” Mic drop.
Then there’s Abhay Agrawal—a dream 😍 in a three-piece suit. He’s rich, loyal, and flirts like it’s an Olympic sport. He calls her out when she forgets to look after herself. He fell for Siya as a kid and never snapped out of it. One look, and he was done for.
He calls her Jaan. She calls him Junglee. And that right there? That’s the best enemies-to-lovers energy I’ve ever read. Soft chaos, a little mess, and all the slow-burn tension you could want.
They start out as total strangers (well, at least she thinks so), then land on opposite sides of a business feud, and somehow stumble into a contract marriage. In the middle of all the heartbreak, the fights, and the wreckage, they fall in love. Hard. The kind of love that feels like you can’t breathe without the other person.
By the way, Abhay has absolutely ruined my standards for men. He drops 150 crores to buy back Siya’s mom’s ring—just because her dad auctioned it out of spite. And then he recreated the entire beach fair where they first met four years ago. WITH DETAILS.
Their chemistry? Flaming 🔥🥵 Their love? Healing. Their story? A perfect mix of pain, pining, and payoff. The kind that has you yelling “KISS HER” one moment and sobbing into your blanket the next.
And can we give a round of applause to the Found family? Swayam, Meera, Raghav, and Luv—honestly, that friend group deserves its own spin-off series. They’re messy, loyal, hilarious, and the kind of emotional support squad we all secretly wish we had. And add Siya's siblings to this - Kashvi and Dhruv.
Speaking of Dhruv, I started off plotting his downfall and ended up wanting to protect him in a bubble wrap🫂. His redemption arc? So satisfying. That boy was written with nuance and growth, and I love that Kajal didn’t make him the typical villainous stepbrother trope.
And that final showdown? When Siya exposed to her father how she knew her father's dirty deeds yet maintained her legacy before press at the Vintage Reverie Collection event, announced her new brand House of Karielle, and took back every ounce of power he stole?🤌🏻 ICONIC. Cinema. Standing ovation moment. That’s the kind of scene you want to rewatch in your head like a movie.
The ending? Perfection. Soft, warm, full-circle happiness. Siya finds peace. Abhay gets forever. They build something out of love and choice, not just survival. It’s healing, through and through.
Kajal Rai, if you ever see this—thank you for writing a book that feels like a therapy session, a pep talk, and a hug all at once. You made me laugh, cry, swoon, and threaten fictional dads in my head. It gets Five stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me. Because Since the Night We Met isn’t just a book—it’s an emotional gem. And I’m never getting over it.😭💌💗
The first thing I did after finishing this book was to buy myself an under eye cream for the large eye bags I had developed by spending an entire night reading this book. I loved how the book was at its peak towards the second half. What a roller coaster ride in such a few chapters that I couldnt put down this book. There was so much happening and revelations happening that I couldnt catch a break.
When I had read the first book, all I could talk about was the friend group. It was the best part of the book for me and I had so much fun watching this gang in their element and I was completely prepared to berate the author for not giving me much of it in this book because the book was revolving around Siya and Abhay and I missed the gang but then the book completely swept the floor under me.
The book if was cute and sweet and cotton candy at the beginning the second half was an absolute master piece and complete master stroke. I wasn't expecting so much to happen and blow my mind. So I would be honest that this was not the best reading year for me. I had a massive reading slump and because of which I was reading in small doses.
Then I came to where the book just catapulted itself to another level. If anybody is reading this book then I will advice to buckle up when you reach the dinner scene because from their the book was such....... phew !! what I can say ... a roller coaster.
If you would feel so strongly about a character then this is it. Man, the things that book threw me caught me off balance and I loved how the author didnt hover around the twists and threw one after another at us
I casually was reading the romance and ongoing drama when all of a sudden things escalated and I couldnt put down the book because I was getting more and more invested and I spend an entire night wanting to know more and more and could only close once the book was finished and now I have a tote bag sized eye bag from that.
if I had complaints about not being able to spend more time with the gang the second half completely compensated that for me. So much happening and suddenly I was rooting for characters that I hated in the beginning and getting so hyped up that I was yelling, crying and ranting at my kindle.
In conclusion, I would say pick up this book if you love romance but stay for the second half because trust me when I say that a lot of things are going to come your way. I love the gang more and more with each book. Such a cute and warm group that I get envious of this close-knit-more than-family group. What a book man and I thank the author for getting me out of the reading slump and for this amazing second half. I am raising the bar for the third book so the author has a bigger ......a lot bigger shoe to fill in. Loved the book. I would rate this book higher than "Since you came along" simply because I am in awe of the plot twists and secrets this one had. AMAZING
Finally, I’m going to talk about this masterpiece. I call it that because I felt every emotion and connected so deeply with the characters that I became completely detached from the real world. Shoutout to Kajal Rai, so far, her two books are my absolute favorites of the year. I came with a lot of expectations because in Since You Came Along, Siya and Abhay are such lovely characters, and their chemistry is out of this world. Their interactions in the first book made our hearts beat faster, made us blush, cheer for them, and wonder what happened between them that made them so hurt by each other. Right from the start of this story, I cried so hard for Siya, for her life and all the pain she has been through. The family abuse trope left me speechless. How could a father hurt all his children without feeling any guilt, just for his own benefit? Siya lost her mother, had to watch her being abused by her father, and then had to raise her sister all by herself while she was still a pre-teen. In her adult life, she had to follow whatever her father wanted and live the way he decided for her. She’s like a monopoly piece in her father’s game, Siya, her sister, and her stepbrother were all just parts he used for his own advantage. Abhay is a great guy and an amazing friend. Throughout the book, he shows his respect for Siya, and just like we would expect from a boyfriend or husband, he always has her back. He is everything Siya needs: understanding, supportive, and always there to give her emotional support when she needs it most. Another great surprise was Dhruv, Siya’s stepbrother. I believe that as the series goes on, we’re going to learn more about him, because I think he has a lot more story to tell than what we know so far. He’s introduced as his father’s right-hand man, almost as devilish as him, but all of Siya’s pain and trauma don’t let her see that Dhruv is nothing like that. He’s just an isolated, lonely adult, silently screaming for care and love, and his storyline moved me so much. I really wish we could have a book about him too, he truly deserves it. As for the other characters, they are more than friends, they’re family. Their bond and the way they support each other are incredible. I have to mention the connection between the sisters, Siya and Kashvi, I don’t even have words to describe them. They’re always there for each other and always protective. More than sisters, they’re soulmates. Giving it 5 stars is more than fair, the writing is incredible, very fluid, and full of emotion. It’s impossible not to connect with the characters or wish to be part of their world. I’m so excited for the next one!!
This book didn’t just tell a story. It made me FEEL everything. And to be very honest this book finished me 😭😭
They didn’t even know each other and got dragged into a messy business clash, and then boom 💥 contract marriage, like it’s the most normal thing in the world. And she was unaware of the fact that Abhay was in love with her since childhood. The kind of love that knocks the air out of your lungs and sits on your chest like, “yes, suffer.” They fell for eachother HARDER. 😭❤️
He calls her Jaan. She calls him Junglee.😍💫And that right there?? That’s peak enemies-to-lovers energy. Soft chaos, sharp tension, a little mess, and so much slow burn I could scream.🤭
Siya — THE BOSS LADY.😎 Being the eldest daughter I was able to relate her. I felt her. Every page. Every pain. Every tiny crack in her heart.
And Abhay?? This man has set standards that real men will never meet. The way he protects her, defends her, supports her, WORSHIPS her.... I’m done. And then he just recreates the entire beach fair where they first met four years ago. Like, HOW and who does these cute things. And don’t even get me started on the part where he drops 150 crores - 150 CRORES - to buy back Siya’s mom’s ring because her father auctioned. I’m sorry but who gave him permission to be this perfect??😭🧿
And that ring scene… oh my god. I was literally crying. Watching Siya stand there while strangers bid on her mother’s ring was PAINFUL. I felt every ounce of grief the author poured into that moment.💕
There was a chapter, which honestly shattered me. I’m not joking when I say it broke me into pieces. Karthik and Sharda? Yeah, consider me their number one hater.💔
But can we please scream about the FOUND FAMILY?? Luv, Swayam, Meera, Raghav, Kashvi, Dhruv and Vihaan— absolute gems. They're messy but loyal, and the emotional support squad everyone deserves. And the fact that Veronica is mentioned in a few scenes?? I LOVED that the author didn’t erase her.🤌🏽🫂
Speaking of Dhruv’s arc especially… WOW. I started hating him, cursing him and ended up protecting him. His redemption was so satisfying.🥰
And THEN comes the moment of all moments. When Siya exposed her father’s dirty deeds in front of the press. LEGENDARY 🏆 That’s the kind of scene you replay in your mind for days.😎
The ending was perfect. Soft. Warm. Healing. Siya and Abhay are forever. And together, they build something out of love and choice, not survival.🤌🏽
And honestly? I just want to hug Kajal dii for writing a book that felt like therapy...it's painful, beautiful, empowering, and unforgettable.🫂🫂
Guys don’t ask me anything right now. I’m an emotional mess. I just finished Since the Night We Met (Book 2 in the ever since series with the trope “Enemy to Lovers Billionaire Romance”), and I swear I read it straight through. Oh my God what an emotional rollercoaster! The story of Siya and Abhay is something you have to live. Siya faces every challenge that is thrown at her by her father (i wanna k*ll him) and Abhay supports her throughout it all, it’s just beautiful.
Siya is a strong and very well-written female lead and I absolutely fell in love with her character. And the writing, oh my God, I can’t say how incredible the writing is! My dear author - she has done an “AMAZINGGG” job with the plot twists, emotions, and the way love is shown. 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻
This book will have you changing your perspective on love. The way Abhay wins Siya back, their deep connection and even Siya’s connection with her brother Dhruv. At the end, I went from hating Dhruv and absolutely loving him. 🤧🫶🏻 I’m so glad he wasn’t depicted as a villain, it made the story all the more heartwarming!!
The ending completely melted my heart…(super good and Happy ending) Siya and Abhay’s acceptance of each other, the way that love remained constant despite everything; it’s pure ✨ magicc.
Best part? ——The friendships in this book also deserve a special mention…it is like family. That emotional support system made me tear up because it’s something personally that I am in need of and reading it was so comforting. I still cannot believe I got an review copy of this masterpiece! I’m really in love with this book - it’s emotional, romantic and full of big gestures that make your heart flutter.
Spoiler alert ‼️ One of my favourite scenes (and believe me there are many!) is the one when Siya’s father auctions her late mother’s ring and Abhay spends 150 crore just to get it back for her.
That moment was one I did not forget at all. Also, the way that Abhay recreates the fair where they met four years ago - just wow. Even though their marriage was forced and contractual, the way that the love blossomed felt so real and raw. ‼️ The nicknames - Abhay calling Siya “Jaan” and Siya calling him “Junglee” - were such a sweet touch. ❤️
This series has officially made it to my Top 5 Indian Romance list. It's one of the “Best ,realistic and heart touching Indian romances” I've ever read.
I'm so ready for Book 3 Since You Stole My Heart Kashvi and Swayam's story.
What to expect: ✨ Grumpy x Sunshine ✨ Marriage of Convenience ✨ Rival Families ✨ Yearning and tension ✨ A hero obsessed with his girl ✨ Strong, soft, beautifully flawed characters ✨ Found family ✨ Angry Confessions
Quotes that stayed with me:
‘There is nothing I wouldn’t do for you, meri jaan.
'Fight me, curse me, reject me, I deserve it all, but don’t shut me out.'
'I’ll still be right here, my jaan, until you stop running and see that my arms are the one place where you’re safe from this horrid, terrible world.’
‘Every version of you is mine, jaan.'
Also this one: ‘I just can’t believe that the neurotic little mess I had to bribe with brownies to play ghar-ghar is getting married today,’ Playing ghar-ghar was such a core childhood memory of mine.
Since the Night We Met is everything I adore in a romance, it is the kind of romance that grabs you by the heart and refuses to let go. A marriage of convenience, billionaire romance packed with yearning, sizzling chemistry, and a brilliant character arc wrapped in found family and rival families tension.
The story begins with their cute meet, followed by a stupid lie that drives them apart, only for fate to pull them back together, this time, into an arranged marriage to save their respective family businesses. What follows is a journey full of secrets and emotional revelations that keep you glued to the pages.
The FMC is a brilliant, fiercely independent lawyer with the classic oldest-daughter ‘I can do it all by myself' energy. Strong, self-built, stubborn and sharp, she’s the type of heroine who refuses to need anyone. On the other side, the MMC is pure sunshine, supportive, possessive, romantic to the core, and hopelessly in love with his girl. Witnessing his persistent attempts to melt her grumpy exterior was the best part.
The side characters added warmth and humour with their absolute gold banters and dialogues. And while Siya was Abhay's jaan, their small found family circle was book ki jaan.
Overall, this book was an unforgettable experience. It was a perfect blend of drama, passion, humour and healing.
Highly, highly recommend if you love yearning, tension, and a sunshine MMC obsessed with his grumpy girl.
By reading this book I got was a full blown emotional storm of Bollywood, K drama, therapy session and somehow still so raw, so real that I had to pause multiple times just to feel every moment.
Let’s start with Siya Kashyap because honestly this woman deserves a standing ovation. She’s elegance and fire braided together. A talented jewellery designer, a protective big sister and a daughter who keeps giving even when her father gives her nothing but wounds. Siya’s strength isn’t loud it’s steady, painful, and beautifully human.
And oh God Kartik Kashyap. Every time this man appeared on the page, my blood pressure went up. Manipulative, greedy, emotionally cruel. Watching him sell Siya’s late mother’s ring out of spite? I genuinely wanted to throw my Kindle across the room.
Abhay Agrawal, Gosh he is so charming and has chaos wrapped in a three piece suit. The man flirts like he invented the concept. Loyal to the point of madness. Soft where Siya is hurting. Fierce where she’s quiet. He has been in love with her since that first stolen moment at the New Year’s party four years ago and he never recovered.
He calls her Jaan. She calls him Junglee. Their marriage? Forced, Contractual, Rooted in rivalry But their love? The kind of Slow, aching, inevitable Love that slips under skin and refuses to leave. There are scenes in this book that have permanently carved themselves into my heart
✨ When Abhay spends 150 crores just to buy back Siya’s mother’s ring heartlessly auctioned. ✨ When he recreates the entire beach fair where they first met the lights, the music, the memories.
I can’t talk about this book without mentioning the found family that made me cry about 6 separate times Swayam, Meera, Luv, Vihaan, Mihu every single one of them feels alive. Then there’s Dhruv a character who begins as a shadow and slowly becomes a person I wanted to wrap in protection and Kashvi? That girl had the power to affect my mood. I need her in next book.
Kuch books padhkar dil halka hota hai yeh wali padhkar dil bhar gaya dard se, pyaar se aur uss raw emotion se seedha soul tak chala jaata hai.
I don’t even know where to begin. This book didn’t just tell a story — it consumed me. I laughed, cried, got angry, fell in love, and ended up staring at the ceiling long after I finished the last page, completely wrecked in the best possible way. Kajal Rai has done it again. This book is a storm — wild, emotional, and breathtakingly beautiful.
When I read the blurb for the very first time, I was hooked!!! It captures the heart of this story — love born out of rivalry, healing born out of heartbreak. Abhay and Siya’s relationship starts as an arrangement, but what grows between them is messy, real, and unforgettable. Siya Kashyap — I saw so much of myself in her. The eldest daughter who holds everything together, even when she’s breaking inside. Her constant need to be perfect, her quiet strength, her fierce love for her sister — all of it felt painfully, beautifully real. She isn’t flawless; she’s human. And that’s what makes her so unforgettable. And Abhay!! O.M.G!! Kajal Di has officially owned the term “green flag.” Abhay is soft yet strong, protective without being possessive, and loves Siya with a devotion that feels almost sacred. He doesn’t just love her — he understands her. Even when she pushes him away, even when the world stands against them, his love stays steady, patient, unshakable. Their chemistry? Electric. Every scene between them crackles with tension — the kind that makes you hold your breath and reread paragraphs just to feel it again. But what I loved most is that their love isn’t just about passion; it’s about healing. It’s about finding peace in each other after years of chaos. Beyond romance, this book dives into deep, heavy themes — neglect, abuse, infertility, family pressure, emotional trauma but it never feels overwhelming. By the time I reached the end, I was a mess. It was everything I wanted and more tender, satisfying, and full of hope. This isn’t just a romance. It’s a story about love that stays, listens, and heals. About finding strength in vulnerability and beauty in brokenness.
This is book two in the series. I haven’t read book 1 yet even though I have it in my Kindle. Reason? I wasn’t able to resist the hype and all those beautiful edits I was seeing on all my fav booksta pages. And the result? I loved it and will be hopping into book 1 as soon as I complete my due ARCs. Also eagerly waiting for book 3.
Okay so let’s talk about the book in talk rn... Book 2... STNWM. The story revolves around two jewel business rivals, the Kashyaps and the Agarwals, and their heirs Siya Kashyap and Abhay Agarwal. They met 4 years ago as strangers at a Kashyap’s new year party which ended with Siya finding out that Abhay is Abhay Agarwal and led to misunderstanding and hatred. 4 years later they are set to wed by their parents for business purposes. What happens next when these two are forced into a marriage is what you have to read.
Now what I loved about Siya is how much strength she had by stepping up in the role of mother to take care of her younger sister Kashvi and her love for her. I loved how ambitious and talented she was, like she was born to be the face of Kashyap Luxe. I loved how she found her strength and always stood up for what was right and to keep her loved ones safe.
And Abhay... this guy is a walking green flag. Okay don’t start about that name wala thing. Everyone makes mistakes but the way he redeemed himself? The guilt, the suffering he went through, and all the efforts he took. The way he literally worshipped her, the belief he had in her. Not only emotionally but in business too. He not only supported her decisions but also gave befitting replies every time anyone tried to demean her, especially her father.
And Kartik Kashyap, this guy was a pure menace. Dhruv, the most misunderstood yet the most loyal. My fav? Kashvi. Her wit, her attitude... loved it. I can’t wait for Swayam to break her walls.
This book is for all those who love childhood lovers, enemies to lovers, and star-crossed lovers. Okay I can’t decide on one because even they can’t decide 😂
From where do I start about this book. I m in love with each and every part of the book. Be it dedication or be it any line. The emotions I have felt while reading this book is what I can't express. I was so hooked into the book that I was not ready to end this book at all.
There are so many things I want to say about this book without giving much about it. The first thing I loved about this book is Abhay and the way he loves her. ABHAY IS THE GREEN FOREST. His love for Siya had me every time. every time he called her Jaan my heart skipped a beat. Secondly, Siya, she is the one person for whom my love crossed all the boundaries, I have a very deep respect for her. The way she had endured so much in her life literally made me cry in the book. Thirdly, the other characters that is the found family in the book one of the main reason I started reading this series was this trope found family. I love each and every character in this book except for 2 (and those 2 I hate them to the core and I have shared my hatred towards them to the author as well). I have never seen such a deep rooted friendship in real life but this book makes me crave to have it in real life. Fourthly, I love the little things that are shown in the book but it had a great impact, like Abhay cooking for her, being there for her during her panic attacks, and the ritual scenes. There is one specific scene which made me fell in love with Abhay and Siya more was the( I can't say it because it would be a spoiler now for that you need to read the book so what are you waiting for go and read the book)
I was not ready to keep this book down and I don't know how to move on from this book. There were some characters whom I thought I wouldn't like but they are the ones for whom I fell in love deeply and now I can't wait for their books(if there is one). Also the next book in the series is gonna be released next year. Can't wait for read this book.
Since the Night We Met isn’t just a story—it’s a war. A war between families, between past and present, between the heart and the rules that tried so hard to cage it. And at the center of that storm stand Siya and Abhay… two souls who were never supposed to collide, yet couldn’t stay away even when the world told them to.
Siya Kashyap is raised in power and poised for perfection, yet one boy threatened to undo everything—Abhay Agrawal, her greatest temptation and her deepest heartbreak. Their past is drenched in desire and regret, and years later, that history comes knocking in the form of an arranged marriage neither of them wanted.
This marriage? It’s not soft. It’s not sweet. It’s sharp edges, old wounds, and a fire that just won’t burn out.
Abhay returns as a man who would tear down the world for her, while Siya stands stronger, guarded, unwilling to repeat the mistakes that once shattered her. Their push-and-pull is electric—every glance heavy, every fight charged, every moment teetering between love and ruin.
But the story does take its time unfolding. Some parts felt a little stretched, some emotions repeated—but the chemistry? Impeccable. The tension? Delicious. The angst? Absolutely chef’s kiss.
What truly elevates the book is the danger lurking beneath their love—family secrets, old grudges, and the fear that the past may destroy them all over again. Watching Siya and Abhay fight not just each other, but destiny itself, made the journey worth it.
If you're craving a ruthless billionaire obsessed with the one woman he can’t let go, if you love arranged marriage tension, if you live for love that refuses to die, even when it should—this book will pull you under.
A compelling, emotional, beautifully chaotic ride— not perfect, but unforgettable in all the ways that matter.
I’m never getting over them. Can you hear me screaminggggggg? No? Because this finished too soon. Trust me, even after reading 512 pages it wasn’t enough for me. I want to read moreeeeeee. I’m in love with Siya and Abhay.
This was my first book by the author and I’m already in love. Siya and Abhay were perfect. I loved how beautifully their story unfolded. Everything was literally perfect.
Abhay Aggarwal and Siya Kashyap were business rivals but they also shared a past neither of them could forget. When Siya’s father threatened her to marry Abhay or else her sister would have to give up on her dreams, she had no choice but to marry the person she had been trying to hate for the last four years. But little did she know her would be husband was not at all what she thought he was.
Siya is the elder daughter of Kartik Kashyap. She is responsible and mature. She learned to grow up at a very young age after her mother passed away. I absolutely adore her bond with Kashvi, she is so protective of her. I loved how her character was portrayed....sharp and strong on the outside yet vulnerable on the inside.
Abhay, on the other hand is a single child who grew up in a loving and caring family. OMG the calm man that he is. I really loved how patient he was with Siya. He was literally calm to her chaos. He loved her so deeply yet never forced his love on her. Instead he patiently waited for her to accept and reciprocate it.
This book was so beautiful. It had everything.... banter, drama, emotions, and sweet lovely moments. I really loved their friends’ circle and can’t wait to read Kashvi’s story.
Did I mention how much I hated Karthik? I swear, I still think about him. Why did no one slapped him in the book? Please @authorkajalrai this is a kind request make it happen in the next book.🙏🏻😂
Since The Night We Met is the second book in the series, and what should I say—this book completely stole my heart! It had me hooked from the very beginning. The found family trope was done so beautifully in this book, and the emotions it evokes are simply unforgettable.
The story follows Siya Kashyap and Abhay Agrawal, business rivals who share a complicated past and are now forced to marry because of their fathers. What happens next? Will she forgive him for his past mistakes or not? Read to know what happened next.
This book is truly a rollercoaster of emotions. One moment I was grinning at their flashbacks, and the next, I wanted to smack Siya’s father—he’s so mean and would do anything for his empire!
Siya is a boss lady—strong, independent, and willing to do anything for her family. She would even marry the man she once hated the most for her baby sister’s sake. She’s the kind of elder sister everyone wishes they had.
And Abhay? Oh my God, he’s the ultimate green flag! He made mistakes, but the way he tries to make things right is beautiful. He supports her, cares for her, and truly worships the ground she walks on.
I also loved how Siya takes care of Kashvi and protects her from everything, and how Meera becomes protective of them—it’s such a heartwarming sight. The friendships in this book are another highlight; from Dhruv to Meera, every character is written so well. The writing style is engaging and emotional.
There are some unforgettable scenes in this book—but no spoilers! Just read it yourself.
If you love enemies-to-lovers stories that break you and heal you at the same time, this one’s for you.
Since the Night We Met is a deeply emotional and gripping billionaire romance that explores the complexities of family legacy, personal trauma, and the transformative power of love. Kajal Rai weaves a compelling narrative centered on Siya Kashyap, a fiercely talented and resilient woman trapped in the gilded cage of her family’s ruthless business empire and a marriage of convenience with Abhay Agrawal, the son of their fiercest rival. The story is rich with nuanced characters who are flawed yet achingly human. Siya’s journey from a dutiful daughter to a woman reclaiming her identity and legacy is portrayed with raw honesty. Abhay, her husband, is equally compelling—a man marked by past mistakes and burdened with love and regret, yet fiercely devoted to Siya. I love how he is ready to become a better man for her. The novel does not shy away from difficult themes such as emotional abuse, family politics, and infertility. The author’s sensitive handling of these subjects, including moments of panic attacks and the portrayal of complex family dynamics, creates an authentic and immersive experience for readers. The interplay of vulnerability and strength in Siya and Abhay’s relationship is beautifully captured, making their slow-burn romance both heart-wrenching and hopeful. And I absolutely loved it. Since the Night We Met is more than a billionaire romance; it is a story of healing, courage, and choosing oneself despite the shadows of the past. Recommended to passionate readers like me who appreciate emotional complexity, strong heroines, and a love that is as messy as it is beautiful.
I can totally relate. The author dedicated the whole book to elder daughters, and as an elder daughter, I can totally understand the unsaid words, unspoken responsibilities, and unrealistic expectations.
The story was really beautiful. The scenes will leave you overwhelmed as you'll be able to totally align with them.
Every girl who wasn't respected and heard enough at home and felt unseen and unloved wants her husband to be more supportive of her and able to understand her thoughts.
Abhay is exactly that man. He is truly the best. He conveys things through his words, and sometimes through his actions and his eyes.
The way he stood up for her against every odd, even against her father, and the way he calls her "Jaan," I really enjoyed it.
The scene where he said "‘I’m telling you that I will not trap you with me because I feel whole when I’m with you. I need you to come back to me because you choose me, choose to build a life with me, however unconventional. If you do decide to come back to me, and god, I truly hope you do, I will welcome you with my whole heart."
He had my heart. I really thought time stopped and all the tension eased out.
The story was beautifully carved and properly written, keeping all the emotions entangled and made just for your heart.
I really loved this book and the warmth this couple gave me. Another reason to love this book was how beautifully the bond between friends was shown. It totally justifies that some bonds are beyond blood.
Some stories are not just said, they are written to be cherished. This is one such story where you will experience the emotional rollercoaster that leads you into the lives of Abhay and Siya.
Abhay and Siya were meant for each other from the time they were unaware of it. A childhood meetup, an unexpected party crash, and a sudden marriage announcement, their life took the speed of a bullet train when it came to their personal encounters. The way Abhay loved Siya is what every one of us should manifest for. He is adorable, a man of words, and he never left her for a second to face the harsh reality of the world. He worshiped her.
On a few instances, I felt irritated to read how Siya was giving him a hard time. But I think that's how they were meant to come together. For Siya, I felt bad for her situation where she was snatched from one of the blessings of being a woman. It was too harsh and selfish of her close family to push her into that situation. But yet again Abhay proved what true love is all about.
This plot offers you a business rivalry, a pathetic family encounter, a difficult childhood, an amazing love story, supportive in-laws, an excellent bunch of friends, a sibling bond, and a cute family drama. The plot will keep you entertained at every step. The ups and downs are well-written and executed. The author Kajal grinds when it comes to writing male leads of her books. They are the men, every girl looks for.
Damn..... bro I literally have no words for this book . Its a whole rollercoaster ride of emotions. 🫶🫶 I have never been this much emotionally invested in a book that I literally hugged my phone while reading the book 😅 I loved it soooo much 😘😘
THIS IS WHAT WE CALL A PERFECT ROMANCE BOOK I mean this book has everything like ..... everything —romance, passion, humor , found family, emotional depth, family drama , an emotional twist , friendship etc.
I guess almost every trope is there in the book enemies-to-lovers ✅️ marriage of convenience ✅️ forced proximity ✅️ found family ✅️ childhood love/crush ✅️ second chance ✅️ family drama ✅️ slow burn romance ✅️ desi romance ✅️
Siya is officially my ideal I loved her strength, her care for her sister 💖💖 I just wanted to hug her because she suffered so much but still chose to stand up every time 🥹🥹
Talking about Abhay .... of course I loved the way he loved her so deeply but most importantly, respected her which truly won my heart 🥹🥹 the way he was patient with her , gave her space , even if it hurt him , he was .... just there always with her .
The found family trope is done so beautifully 🤌🤌I am literally in love with the group . this group will always be special 😘😘 I wish everyone get such a friend group
honestly I never chose a Book of the month but this book deserved that title 😍😍
Overall verdict — what else do you want to listen just READ THE BOOK 😌😌
Not the typical romance you always read, this one's something different. Unfinished conversations, old wounds, and the longing for that one particular person.
Siya and Abhay’s story is heavy with history. You can feel it in their silences more than in their arguments. Every interaction between them carries something unsaid — regret, anger, longing, love that never really died. What hit me the most was how real their pain felt. This isn't a love story where everything magically falls into place; it is messy, uncomfortable, and sometimes frustrating — just like real relationships.
Siya ~ The way she carries herself with control, how much she holds back, not just from Abhay but from herself too. I admired her so much.
Abhay ~ Loved him. Loved how badly he wanted things to be different but didn't know how to fix what he broke.
The slow burn, Oh God! 😩 There were so many moments where I wanted to shake both of them and scream, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬. But healing doesn’t happen overnight. Trust doesn’t return easily. And love, especially the kind that once broke you, takes time to feel safe again.
So if you enjoy second-chance romance, emotional angst and unresolved tension, and you're ready to be heartbroken but then healed again beautifully, this book is something you should definitely definitely give a try!!!
“She’s the girl he was never meant to love. He’s the man she was raised to hate."
That single line perfectly captures the storm that Since the Night We Met unwraps a gripping blend of love, hate, vengeance, and heartbreak that refuses to let go even after the last page.
Kajal Rai crafts an intense, emotionally charged tale of Siya Kashyap and Abhay Agrawal, two souls caught in a web of legacy, rivalry, and fate. What starts as an arranged marriage of convenience soon spirals into a consuming battle of passion and pain. The chemistry between Siya and Abhay is just
Siya is strong-willed, proud, and vulnerable in ways that make her incredibly real. Abhay, on the other hand, is the quintessential dark hero powerful, obsessive, and torn between love and revenge. Together, they ignite a love story that’s as beautiful as it is brutal.
The plot balances romance with family politics and dark secrets, keeping readers hooked till the very end.
If you love enemies-to-lovers, second chances, arranged marriage tropes, and a hero who would burn the world for her, this book is a must-read. It’s not just a love story — it’s a saga of obsession, redemption, and the price of power.
“Since the Night We Met” isn’t just read ; it’s felt, deeply, painfully, and passionately.
This story pulled me in with a quiet tenderness I didn’t expect 💛✨. Abhay and Siya’s relationship starts with friction, tension, and years of unresolved feelings-but watching them slowly unravel each other’s walls was so heart-squeezing 🥺 The emotional waves are constant, sometimes gentle and sometimes overwhelming, but always sincere enough to keep you hooked and hurting right along with them 💞.
Siya’s character touched me the most. Her strength as an elder daughter, her fierce love for her sister, and her ability to rise after every heartbreak made her incredibly relatable. And Abhay.... he felt like the definition of a steady, safe place 🤍. His remorse, his patience, and the way he supported her in every aspect-emotionally and professionally-made him shine so brightly 💚🌿. Their dynamic felt real, imperfect and beautifully human like two souls learning how to breathe together again.
The blend of family drama, business heat, childhood scars and friendships that feel like chosen family gave the book a wonderful balance 🌪️❤️. Some moments made me ache, some made me blush, some made me smile like an idiot 😭😊 and some made me pause just to absorb the emotions. It’s not a flawless story, but it’s rich with heart and healing.
Since the Night We Met isn’t a soft romance, it cuts deep and stays with you. Siya and Abhay’s story is messy, intense, and emotionally addictive, the kind that pulls you in from the first chapter and refuses to let go. Their connection feels like a storm: charged with regret, longing, and all the things left unsaid.
Siya is a standout FMC - fierce, guarded, and painfully real. She’s loved hard, been shattered, and now wears her strength like armour, especially when it comes to protecting her sister. Her journey of reclaiming her voice while still allowing herself to feel is deeply satisfying. Abhay, in contrast, is quiet devastation - steady, devoted, and haunted by one mistake. The way he keeps choosing Siya, even when love turns into a battlefield, makes him unforgettable.
The arranged marriage trope, family drama, and layered side characters raise the stakes beautifully. This is a second-chance romance that understands love doesn’t erase pain, it gives you the courage to face it. If you love intense emotions, enemies-to-lovers tension, and romance tangled with family politics, this one will linger in your heart.
I don’t even know where to begin. Abhay and Siya's story was a rollercoaster ride. One second I was grinning at their flashback scenes, and the next I was enraged with Kartik! Every scene they share brims with emotions that I could relate to strongly, and it felt so heartbreakingly real.
And then there was the pure chaos of the found family. Oh, how they have my heart! I missed seeing Luv and Swayam in action and this time Kashvi ka tadka with that duo made it so much better. When they started placing bets on Abhay and Siya, I laughed so hard I had to put the book down. These people love loudly and imperfectly, but that’s what makes them unforgettable.
Siya's character arc hit me hard. The strength, the guilt, the constant need to be okay for everyone else was so emotionally relatable, that it made me feel seen. And Abhay? He’s the emotional anchor of this story. And their happy ending? Chef’s kiss! Kudos to the author for gracefully handling such difficult and complex themes.
The teaser for Book 3 gave me goosebumps and I can't wait to read their story!
I'm not kidding when I tell you that I was bawling on the treadmill when I was reading this book in public. 500 pages is nothing because I finished it in one sitting.
The emotional episode I went through during and after this book is worth every second. I love Siya for her dedication and commitment towards breaking the cycle. She did justice to Arohi. Abhay is the man who worships the ground Siya walks on. And every moment of him losing his mind for Siya was worth reading. He was desperate, but also respectful enough to maintain his boundaries. We got to see a significant role of Kashvi in this book, and I'm excited to read her story. She looks like a rebel 🤭
The characters that I hated in the first book, I ended up loving them in this book (not naming, or else the book will be spoiled). I was apprehensive of everyone in fact! I was scared of Neena (MIL)! 😭 The way she was looking from top to bottom, scanning Siya, made me anxious. But I was glad that she's not the khadoos MIL 🤞🏻 I wanted to go inside the book and strangle Kartik and Sharda!
We are left with so many mysteries by the end of the book. Who is Luv going to end up with. What's gonna happen to Dhruv (Dhruv X Vihaan?) And the most important one - who was that anonymous text from? Can't wait to read the third book! 😭
This book is a testament that not everyone is who we perceive them to be. Some have a story, that gets uncovered only when the time is right. Glad that this book gave closure to many characters of this book.
This book is everything I crave in a romance raw emotion, aching history, and two characters bound by love they were never allowed to choose.
Siya and Abhay’s story is layered with resentment, longing, and unfinished pain. What starts as a ruthless arranged marriage between sworn rivals slowly unravels into something far more devastating. Every interaction between them is charged, sharp words hiding deeper wounds, stolen glances heavy with everything left unsaid.
Siya is strong, guarded, and shaped by duty, while Abhay is the kind of man who loves with a dangerous intensity, the type who would burn the world down if it meant protecting the woman he loves. Their chemistry is explosive, their past heartbreaking, and the emotional push-and-pull kept me hooked till the very end.
The enemies-to-lovers tension, second-chance romance, and family politics blend beautifully, making this story both addictive and unforgettable. If you love obsessive love, arranged marriage angst, and a hero who is unapologetically hers, this book will consume you.
This is the story of Abhay and Siya. It was a rollercoaster ride for me. The emotional moments really made me teary-eyed. As an elder daughter, I could relate to Siya and the constant burden or pressure of being perfect. She is so strong and loves her sister so much, which was my favorite part. Abhay- best MMC ever. The author has raised the standard so high with Raghav and now Abhay. Abhay would do anything for Siya, and he literally worships her. He is so protective, soft, and sweet for her. Their chemistry has my heart, the tension, the emotions, the pull, even when I wasn't reading about them, I couldn't help but think about their chemistry. Also, the way Abhay talks about Siya and stands up for her against her father who doesn't trust her even after the hard work she puts into business is love, pure love. The author’s writing is addictive and totally captivating. Honestly, this is my favorite book in the series now.