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The Ex Factor: A Billionaire Romance

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Aarti Bhatia

They say distance brings perspective…

When my ex announces his marriage, I get out of Dallas under the ruse of examining our newly acquired properties in New York City.

Work is a good distraction, but the kind, brilliant billionaire I meet on my first night there could be an even better one.

He’s tall, dark, gorgeous, and . . . used to date the woman who’s marrying my ex-fiancé.

How can I have such incredible chemistry with someone linked to the biggest humiliation of my life?

I don’t know, but that doesn’t stop everyone around me from cautioning me.

I’m not sure how to build a future with Sujit when our families won’t let us forget our pasts.

Sujit Rao

Even heartbreak can’t distract me from Aarti Bhatia

She is fire and I run to her like moth to a flame.

Beautiful, brilliant, and powerful, she’s the kind of woman I could see a future with.

If only she wasn’t linked to my past.

Aarti loved the man who’s marrying my ex-girlfriend.

When our pictures are splashed in a tabloid and the walls begin to close around us, I’m ready to unleash my aggressive side the world hasn’t seen before.

I am ready to stake it all. The question is, will she?

The Ex Factor is a stand-alone billionaire romance that takes a critical view of unrestricted wealth accumulation and class elitism.

408 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 10, 2025

12 people are currently reading
110 people want to read

About the author

Varsha Chitnis

4 books67 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
Profile Image for Aakanksha .
197 reviews26 followers
June 10, 2025
It's my first book by @author.varshachitnis and now I understand the hype. I really liked the writing style in this book, the characters Aarti and Sujit are so well written. Their journey, as individuals and together was so beautiful to read. Aarti's portrayal as a strong woman despite the personal struggle is so good and Sujit was just as captivating as well, the emotional maturity he showed? Just wow!! I really loved them. 😌❤️

The family dynamics, relationships, humour, banters, romance emotional scenes and every side character is well written! The pace was so good and it didn't feel off at any point.


Thank you so much @swipethebookpr and @authorvarshachitnis for the ARC! ❤️
Profile Image for ash✿.
228 reviews10 followers
June 6, 2025
*A Delightful Slow Burn Romance*

I loved "The Ex Factor" by Varsha Chitnis! The story masterfully explores the complexities of relationships, particularly when the exes of a couple come together. The slow burn in this book was perfect, and the characters' unique personalities complemented each other beautifully.

The male lead, a self-made individual, and the female lead, from a well-known society, had an intriguing dynamic. Their past experiences and growth made their romance all the more satisfying. What I appreciated most was how the book promoted respect, understanding, and friendship, even among exes.

The couple's chemistry was undeniable, and their fights for each other, despite past betrayals, added depth to the story. With no unnecessary misunderstandings, this romance novel truly shone. If you're a fan of slow-burn romances, you'll love "The Ex Factor"!

Ps. I have a friend named Aarti whose boyfriend's name is Sunil. So, I couldn't stop imagine them as I read which was weird but yeah, they somehow were the Aarti and Sujit for me lol.
Profile Image for Readwithsohi .
86 reviews5 followers
June 10, 2025
This book is full of romance, humor, witty banter, deep family bonds, and a heartwarming second chance at love.

Aarti Bhatia is on a journey of healing after heartbreak when she crosses paths with Sujit Rao. What begins as a strictly professional connection slowly unfolds into something much deeper and undeniably special. Fate clearly had other plans for them.

I genuinely loved reading this. It felt like such a refreshing change. The chemistry between Aarti and Sujit is electric yet comforting. The way they bring peace, trust, and warmth into each other’s lives is simply wholesome 🥹🥹

Sujit has officially earned a place on the book boyfriend list like bro he's everything a girl could want and deserve. And Aarti? She’s fierce, independent, and unapologetically strong and has these qualities that made her stand out and win my heart. These two deserved every bit of the love and happiness they found together.

Another thing I absolutely adored was the portrayal of family. Unlike the usual portrayal of toxic dynamics, their families were supportive, kind, and full of trust. It was beautiful to witness the way love was nurtured not just between the couple, but in their families too.

The story also offered a refreshing take on friendship between exes mature, respectful, and genuinely caring. It was such a graceful portrayal of what love and healing can look like when done right.
Profile Image for mithi._.reads.
126 reviews5 followers
June 11, 2025
This was such a beautiful, but I really love that the author wrote this book because the previous book that I read which was the art of taking second chances in that book Sujit had a heart break and I didn't like that because he is so pure so genuine, so cute and a total Green flag, and I didn't like the heartbreak he had to go through, but then when the author announced this book and I came to know that this is about Sujit and Aarti, I was really really really happy. I also gave her a Dm telling her how much happy she made me by this book and when I started reading this book, I couldn't keep it down. This is so beautiful so Romantic I mean they both are so cute together. They are like missing puzzle pieces, which somehow came together and now cannot be separated again. They realised each other's importance and that they love each other, really slow, but once they did, there was no step back. The book had so many spicy scenes and Sujit, oh my God, I never imagine him being a dirty mouth. I really enjoyed their spicy moments. I was giggling a lot. This book is totally entertaining and so much fun. I would say you all should give it a try.
79 reviews2 followers
June 18, 2025
The Ex Factor is a gripping, chemistry-filled billionaire romance that pulls you in from the very first page. Aarti and Sujit aren't just two people falling for each other but they're fighting years of heartbreak, tangled pasts, and the weight of family expectations. Their connection feels real, raw, and impossible to ignore.

Aarti is strong, vulnerable, and caught in a situation that would break most people, while Sujit is intense, powerful, and completely drawn to her despite every reason not to be. What I loved most is how their relationship isn’t just about love....it’s about healing, standing up for yourself, and facing the world even when it’s watching you fall apart. That's the part of life we crave for (i crave for).😭✨🫶🏻

Something all we need this and we imagine ourselves to be them....I did... This book was really so unhyped trust me i truly loved the book❤️😭✨🫶🏻

This is a stand-alone billionaire love story where it takes a deeper look at class, wealth, and reputation, while still delivering all the emotional highs and romantic tension you could want. If you’re looking for something angsty, smart, and addictive, The Ex Factor is it.❤️
Profile Image for Jurnee.
45 reviews2 followers
June 9, 2025
*arc review*
I loved this book.

Everything about it drew me in....
-Billionaire romance
-Indian rep
-MCs in their 30s
-Black Cat FMC/Golden Retriever MC

I am obsessed with the "falling in love with my ex's ex" trope. This is the first book I've read by Varsha, but it will not be my last. I'm very excited to read the other two books in The Dallas Connection Series. Although this slow burn was just a little too slow for my liking, I didn't mind because the writing was so good and the characters were so well written.

Aarti and Sujit are truly a force to be reckoned with. A true definition of "power couple". Watching their friendship and relationship blossom over the course of the book was so beautiful to read. Even with all the noise around them, they turned into each other and pushed through. I enjoyed the other cast of characters as well, each one of them bringing their own flare to the story.

Thank you GoodGirlsPR and Varsha for the opportunity to read this arc!
Profile Image for Swati Singh.
27 reviews7 followers
June 12, 2025
Book Rating: 4/5
The Ex Factor by Varsha Chitnis is a slow-burn contemporary romance built on the arc of strangers to friends to lovers. At its heart, the story explores heartbreak, denial, fear, and—most importantly—healing.
Aarti is a fierce businesswoman trying to survive in a patriarchal, cutthroat society where a woman with an opinion is seen as a threat. Betrayed, belittled, and surrounded by gossip and rivalry, she’s forced to rise through sheer resilience. On the other side is Sujit—a billionaire who hasn’t forgotten his humble beginnings. He doesn’t wield his wealth to dominate, but to uplift the underprivileged, staying rooted in his moral compass.
They’re tangled in the mess of being each other’s ex’s ex, but somewhere amidst the chaos, they find comfort in shared wounds. That comfort slowly turns into something tender, powerful, and real—love, even as the world tries to pull them apart.
The writing delivers a bold commentary on feminism, classism, identity, and patriarchy—not just as themes, but as questions for society to reckon with. It’s thought-provoking in the best way.
This was my first read by Varsha Chitnis, and I’m genuinely impressed.
If you love emotional depth with meaning beneath the romance—this is one to pick up.
Profile Image for Rutuja.
128 reviews1 follower
June 9, 2025
The Ex Factor had me completely hooked! I felt like I was right there with Aarti and Sujit—feeling every spark, every ache, every chaotic twist right alongside them. Varsha Chitnis has written a story that made me giggle, cry, and get mad (mostly at the drama, not gonna lie 👀).

Aarti’s journey felt so raw and relatable, and Sujit? Total charmer. Confident, swoony, and just the right amount of emotionally open to make you fall hard. Their chemistry was everything, and the layered dynamics kept me flipping pages like there was no tomorrow.

This book delivers on angst, heart, and that delicious messy middle that makes romance so addictive. Highly recommend if you love stories with South Asian leads, emotional depth, and a romance that feels as real as it is swoony.
Profile Image for C.W. Rose.
Author 2 books136 followers
June 17, 2025
I enjoyed the first two books in the Dallas Connection series, so of course once this came out, I had to get it. Not to mention I had been rooting for Sujit and Aarti to get their HEAs ever since book 1.

This story was such a pleasant surprise. It’s a bit more of a slower burn than the first two books, but the development of the friendship and then romance between our two leads feels believable and emotional. And it was such a pleasure to read about their walls coming down around each other, and how they overcome their pasts to be together. They are both mature, levelheaded characters, and I always love seeing their family dynamics. We also see and/or hear about some characters from book 1 and 2, one thing I love about interconnected standalones.

Varsha will continue to be an autobuy author for me!
Profile Image for Regina Sage.
Author 9 books45 followers
July 2, 2025
Deeply and emotionally insightful. I loved it!
71 reviews
June 22, 2025
This is my second read by the author, and just like the first, I devoured it!

Sujit Rao- The man he is . The way he takes care of Aarti and his respect for the women in his life 🔥
Glasses and Dimple 🫠🫠 The way he loves, cares and support - everything about him is gentle and fierce at the same time.

The story felt so real with the characters and their emotional moments. The chemistry between them is beautifully written. The story is one of hope and love , overcoming shadows of the past and finding happiness.

What truly stands out in the author’s writing is her ability to break social stereotypes and weave in deep, meaningful messages. She highlights the importance of family, relationships, and the values of trust, respect, and love — all while keeping the narrative warm and engaging.
Profile Image for R_Diksha.
139 reviews3 followers
July 2, 2025
ARC REVIEW-:

Okayy, let me start from where it all began. I first met Sujit and Aarti in the first book of this series and I instantly fell in love with both. I was so furious on their behalf for what happened with them — they both deserved so, so much better. And when I saw the ARC sign-up for this book, with them together, it was like an answer from God himself to all my prayers. 😭

Sujit and Aarti, who were both going through heartbreak from past relationships, met during a business meeting — and that’s where their story begins. They found solace in each other, understood each other's pain, which soon led to a beautiful friendship and then love. It was the most beautiful progress I’ve ever seen. Seeing both of them happy made my heart happy. Read their book to know the full story!

I absolutely loved this book. Sujit Rao is the most gorgeous man to ever exist. I love that man with all my heart. And Aarti Bhatia is just as amazing—strong, fierce, independent, kind, and understanding. Their chemistry, their bond, their friendship—I loved everything about them. The way they healed each other without even realizing it, and how they understood each other with just a look, was beautiful. And when they got protective and possessive of each other? Hot as hell ❤️‍🔥

The side characters were just as amazing—especially Imran, Devi, Cathy, and both their parents. Also, Vinay… I don’t know why, but I feel like something’s brewing there 👀. I do wish we had gotten some scenes with Sujit and Aarti’s parents, and especially between Cathy and Aarti. I wanted that so badly!

Oh, and the nicknames?? He calls her “my sweet girl”—ugh, the endless giggles I giggled. And her calling him “my good boy”? 🤭

If you’re looking for a billionaire slow-burn romance full of swoon-worthy and emotional moments, don’t miss this one!
Profile Image for Word_ishh.
101 reviews4 followers
June 10, 2025

🩶 ARC READ 🩶

💖 Title: The Ex Factor
🖊️ Author: Varsha Chitnis
📘 Finished: June 8, 2025
📅 Release Date: June 10, 2025
🌟 Star Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

🎧 Currently on loop: “Until I Found You” by Stephen Sanchez + “Invisible String” by Taylor Swift
(vibe = gentle longing, emotional warmth, soft strength)

☁️ Trope Checklist ☁️
💘 mutual pining
🫂 emotionally mature love interest
🧡 strong female lead
🧠 supportive family and friendships
🔥 spice level: slow, soft, and soul-first

🌙﹒₊˚✧༚。⋆

🩶 THE VERDICT

I cannot explain how much I connected with this book. Every page had me feeling. From the stunning writing to the perfectly paced relationship, this story had me hooked from the first line. It was comforting, romantic, powerful, and honestly unforgettable.

Aarti and Sujit felt like real people. Their journey felt raw and intentional, and I found myself rooting for them with my whole heart. This wasn’t just a romance. It was about resilience, understanding, and the quiet kind of love that grows deeper with time.

🌙﹒₊˚✧༚。⋆

🖤 AARTI
She’s everything I aspire to be. Graceful, fierce, kind, and full of quiet strength. Even when life tried to shake her, she stood tall. Her growth and grace had me inspired, and I loved how she handled every challenge with her head held high.

SUJIT
He’s respectful, gentle, intelligent, and so emotionally aware. His love for Aarti isn’t loud. It’s consistent, safe, and unwavering. He made me swoon in the calmest way possible. The way he supports and protects her? I melted. Completely.

🌙﹒₊˚✧༚。⋆

📌 Them Together
Their connection was slow-burn perfection. Every glance, every moment felt intentional. Their bond built gradually, but powerfully. It was sweet tension, soft support, and shared vulnerability. I loved watching them fall, layer by layer.

🌟 Bottom Line
This book made me feel seen. It’s a story about love, yes, but also about healing, growth, and finding your person in the most grounded and authentic way. I loved every minute of it, and I would read it all over again just to feel it one more time.

💭
Huge thank you to @author.varshachitnis and @swipethebook.pr for the ARC of this beautiful book.

Profile Image for Gnana Prakashini.A.
44 reviews
June 17, 2025
5⭐ 3.9🌶

Alright, buckle up because I picked up The Ex Factor expecting to roll my eyes at some melodramatic train wreck of a romance—plot twist, I wound up grinning like an idiot, hopelessly crushing on Sujit, and legit going back to reread his chapters whispering “Sweet girl” like some lovesick fool. Send help.

Aarti Bhatia, though? Damn, she’s the blueprint. That chick you want in your corner even if you’ve never met her. She’s whip-smart, got grit for days, and rocks those “I’ve been through hell and I’m still standing” vibes. Imagine a boss heiress stomping through heartbreak in heels sharp enough to cut glass, loving like she invented the concept, and—surprise!—getting betrayed by a guy who wasn't just right for her. Rage meltdown, New York escape, you know the drill.

Now, Sujit Rao? Whew. Where do I start?
Certified legend.
He’s the ex of her ex’s new wife. (I know, it’s messy as hell—just trust me, it works.)
But Sujit? This man is built different. He actually pays attention. Like, remembers how she eats a bananain the morning, reads her favorite books out loud, and probably wins gold if “Best Boyfriend” was a sport. He lets her feel her messy feelings. Loves her out loud, zero shame, all-in. He’s basically therapy wrapped in a six-foot hug, gently piecing her back together after the universe tried to wreck her.

Oh, and yeah—my dude is well-versed in jouissance. You know what I mean. 😉

And then he drops THIS: “We are going to say fuck-you to the world and live happily ever after because I’m absolutely, positively, life-threateningly in love with you.”
Honestly? I had to put the book down and fan myself. That’s how unhinged I got.

But here’s the real kicker: this isn’t about revenge, or rebound hookups, or whatever messy drama you think. It’s about healing. Choosing someone who genuinely sees you—warts, trauma, weird breakfast orders and all.

Their love? Slow burn. Soft edges. Quiet fireworks that make you forget everyone else exists for a minute.

TL;DR:
Forget your basic love triangles. This is the GLOW-UP edition. It’s about not settling, not stooping, just… leveling up.

So if you’re all about cinnamon roll guys with backbone, fierce women who don’t stay down, and grown-ass romance with actual depth (and some serious steam)? The Ex Factor is about to steal your lunch money and leave you giggling about it.

@destiny._.decides💗💌
Profile Image for Aurora Reads Books .
38 reviews2 followers
June 11, 2025
Have you ever wondered how would it be if the guy you're currently dating used to date the girl who's now marrying your ex? And vice versa. And if you combine it with the whole rich desi immigrant family setting, and you have the plot of Varsha Chitnis's newest release, The Ex Factor, the third book of her Dallas Connection series.

Typically, we have the FMC and the MMC fall in love and get their happily ever after, but we do not consider the aftermath of their HEA, specifically to those who are caught in the blast zones of their whirlwind romance. Aarti and Sujit, two people who had their hearts broken by Sameer and Tara (the MCs of the first book 'The Art Of Taking Second Chances), are still healing from their respective heart-breaks. And as luck (or fate) would have it, their paths cross in New York due to their business dealings and they begin an unlikely friendship that soon turns to attraction and more.

Aarti and Sujit's love story seems to prove that saying, "Love will find you in unexpected ways", because their love was unexpected. Who would've thought that two people who's exes are marrying each other would find love, companionship, and most of all, comfort with each other? But then again, the jagged pieces of their hurt fit each other best and if anyone can understand what one of them is going through, it's the other.

Being desis in a desi community in a videshi country, the gossip of their heart break and love will become a hot topic for discussion at tea-time. But Aarti and Sujit navigate this gossip and the age-old fear of "Log Kya Kahenge?" (what will people say?) in a way that felt heartwarming. You cannot help yourself but cheer them on. And I've always said that I love books that make me think, and Varsha Chitnis with her writing has always made me feel and think so much with not just the plot or the way the characters behave, but also with the way she tries to impart little life lessons and social commentaries in her books.

If you love reading about strong FMCs, an adorable golden retriever MMC who calls her 'sweey girl', supportive parents and lovable side characters, then this book is for you. Trust me when I say you won't regret reading this book.
Profile Image for Mes Curls Reads.
180 reviews6 followers
June 11, 2025
I don’t know how Varsha Chitnis does it, but she makes messy pasts + billionaire setups + emotional depth feel fresh every single time.

Aarti and Sujit’s story isn’t just about finding love again; it’s about reclaiming your dignity, redefining family, and finally choosing yourself. That’s what makes The Ex Factor hit so hard. Both characters are reeling from heartbreak. Aarti’s ex is about to marry someone else. Sujit’s ex is that someone else. Awkward? Yes. Tabloid-worthy? Definitely. But somehow, what starts as mutual emotional chaos turns into something surprisingly tender.

Sujit is… a green flag in human form. I’m talking no alpha male posturing, no weird power games, just pure “tall, dark, and emotionally available” energy. And Aarti? Fierce, intelligent, and so unapologetically herself. Their chemistry had me giggling, kicking my feet, and highlighting lines like “my sweet girl” and “my good boy” like I was in high school again.

The slow burn was delicious. It gave space for their friendship to blossom before love took over — the kind of love that feels earned, not rushed. And when the possessiveness kicked in? Whew. 🔥 But it was protective in a way that never felt toxic, just two people realising they’d go to war for each other if needed.

Beyond the romance, the book also takes bold swings at themes like classism, inherited privilege, and toxic wealth culture. It doesn’t shy away from calling out the absurdity of elite circles and the emotional cost of pretending everything’s “refined” when it’s actually pretty rotten underneath.

If I had to nitpick why this isn’t a full five stars: I found myself wanting more closure scenes with their parents, especially Aarti’s dynamic with Sujit’s family. Those moments would’ve layered in some emotional richness in the second half. But even with that, this book is easily one of the most thoughtful, heart-squeezing romances I’ve read this year.

This is not your typical billionaire romance. It’s emotionally intelligent, socially aware, and packed with chemistry. Read it for the slow burn, stay for the healing arc, and swoon hard for Sujit freaking Rao. 💘

4.5/5
Profile Image for Kia | BookReviewer.
108 reviews4 followers
June 17, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised by this book, which beautifully portrays the challenges of finding love after a difficult breakup. The story revolves around Aarti, a real estate heiress, and Sujit, a tech billionaire, who meet by fate and begin to fall for each other despite their past heartbreaks. What I loved about this book was the emotionally strong connection between the two leads, which develops slowly and respectfully without rushing into physical intimacy.

The author has wonderfully brought alive the pain of the characters and how they fall for each other. The way Aarti and Sujit care for each other's feelings and boundaries is truly admirable. Aarti, in particular, is a strong and independent character who handles situations with maturity and confidence - she's absolutely BLACK CAT energy! 🔥

The book also explores the complexities of relationships, including the impact of past experiences on present relationships. The author has done a great job of portraying the supporting characters, including Aarti and Sujit's families and employees, in a heartwarming way. Sujit's noble acts towards his employees are especially noteworthy, showcasing his compassionate side.

If you're looking for a book that celebrates emotional intimacy, mutual respect, and mature relationships, then this is a great choice. Also The vocabulary is rich, and the storyline is seamless and pleasant.

Why You'll Love This Book:
- The emotionally strong connection between Aarti and Sujit is beautifully portrayed.
- The characters are well-developed and relatable, with complex pasts and relationships.
- The book explores themes of love, trust, and relationships in a mature way.
- The supporting characters add depth and warmth to the story.

What to Expect:
A heartwarming romance that explores the complexities of relationships, love, and trust. With its strong characters, engaging storyline and this book is great if u are looking for a romance read.
Also After reading this book u will fall in love with Sujit!! HE has Dimples, well built and the way he cares for Aarti without her asking for it, is what I loved the most!!
Profile Image for Sanvi Speaks.
216 reviews2 followers
June 18, 2025
Sujit was so much in love that he wanted to surprise her on her birthday with his entire family making it official.

Aarti has a big crush on him and when the family wanted them to tie a knot she was super excited that she (on his father's insistence) proposed to him on a grand scale event.
.
The twist......well his girlfriend and her boyfriend got together leaving them shattered and broken. Their stories were not complete and they were still grieving their loss but fate played its game and brought them together, will the ex-factor make them hate each other or their mutual admiration and love defeats all odds for them to find their happily ever after this time?
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I was so in love with this book, as Aarti always says "it's the little things", those are the little things I fall in love with, the way the story shows women flourishing, the cultural representation and as I already mentioned I love when I see something related to my culture or language is spoken about in books and I was super giddy whenever something about telugu came ( call me fool 🤪) I like the narrative style so much it kept me engaging and interested to the end.

This book felt more realistic in a lot of ways. The way it shone a positive light on relationships and dealing with breaakups, how they handled the life and crisis. The trust one have on each other in a relationship is amazingly portrayed 💯
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Words will not be enough for how much I love this couple. She is successful, powerful and would destroy the world for him and he can do the same for her. Perfect power couple in my opinion. Though they are serious and introverted they turn soft for each other and their chemistry, the slow burn, the angst Oh.My.God ❤️‍🔥

There were a lot of moments like getting her a tiramisu, gifting her books, reading for her....He.read.for.her 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌���
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The best part she arranged for a beach house in a private island because he mentioned that he wanted to have a weekend resting on a hammock near the beach 🫠🫠🫠🫠

If you love a billionaire desi coupleo with slow burn, soft Romance but angtsy and hot chemistry this book is for you ❤️‍🩹
Profile Image for Janane.
185 reviews1 follower
July 26, 2025
After being betrayed by their exes, two heartbroken souls find comfort in each other - what begins as friendship slowly blossoms into something deeper.

Pick this up if you're looking for a romance with Indian characters, full of family drama, layered emotions, & bit of romance.

One of the main reasons I didn’t enjoy the second book in this series, was because I felt Arati and Sujith - the exes - weren’t given closure they truly deserved. So while I was skeptical about them getting together, I was also curious to see how their story would unfold.

Arati is your classic Indian FMC - the high-achieving daughter who excels in her career and constantly pushes herself to be the best, but also carries the crushing guilt of thinking she’s the reason behind her family’s damaged reputation.

Sujith is one of the best-written MMCs I’ve come across. A tech billionaire who genuinely cares about social issues, and doesn’t just talk about change - he works for it. He’s kind, grounded, and endlessly patient, yet willing to go to any length to protect the people he loves.

Their story is beautifully unconventional. At their lowest points, a business deal brings them back into each other’s lives. What starts off as a fragile connection rooted in shared pain slowly evolves into a deep, meaningful friendship - one that weaves its way into their daily lives. It’s a slow burn in the best way.

The book shines with its supporting cast - from Arati’s family to Sujith’s inner circle. The care, the concern, the fear of heartbreak - all of it felt so authentic. And yes, there are some characters you’re not going to like, but they definitely bring the drama that fuels the story.

I especially loved the first half—their friendship, the emotional healing, the way they start leaning on each other. However, the chemistry between them didn’t completely land for me in the second half. That said, I really appreciated how the author wove in important social themes, adding a thoughtful layer to the love story a love story and giving us a fresh take on second chances and HEAs.

Overall, this was a mid read for me!
61 reviews
June 30, 2025
From the first page, I knew that it was going to be something special. The way Varsha Chitnis writes is quite unique, it is emotional and intentional and she draws you in so that you feel like you are in the story. Every interaction between Aarti and Sujit felt authentic, tender and layered.

Aarti is one of those characters who stays with you long after the last page. She is strong, graceful and has this quiet power that I found profoundly inspirational. At times, when she may have experienced doubt or heartbreak, she held herself with such dignity. I loved seeing her growth and how she was never a hard person, even while becoming strong.

And then Sujit...wow! I do not say this lightly, he may be one of my favourite book bf I have read lately. He is written with such emotional awareness, he is gentle but not meek, and the way he sees Aarti and supports her? It felt so real. Their relationship did not depend on big gestures even though the potential for that was there, it was built slowly and carefully, through trust and small moments of vulnerability.

The slow burn was just right. It never once felt contrived or rushed, every glance and interaction felt intentional. I caught myself smiling, tearing up and at times, holding my breath.

Also, I need to shout out the supporting characters!
Imran, Cathy, Devi, even Vinay were such an integral part of the story. I truly felt like I was also a part of this little world, and I didn't want to leave.

Most of all, this story made me feel. It is a love story, but it is also about healing, growing, and allowing someone to see all of you, the shattered pieces, the guarded parts, the soft parts underneath. It was powerful in a very lowkey, comforting way.

If you are looking for a heartfelt, character driven romance with a ton of emotional depth, The Ex Factor is what you are looking for. I adored every single page, and I know it is one I will return to many times when I want to feel all of the feelings again.

Thank you @swipethebook.pr and @author.varshachitnis for providing arc copy
Profile Image for Rosie.
10 reviews
June 4, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I 𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐎𝐓 begin to express just how much I loved this book. I'm going to go into details about everything I loved — brace yourself.

💌𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠? Immaculate. I was genuinely interested while reading. It never felt tiring or boring; every single line had me hooked.

💌𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬? Loved all of them.

🌷 Sujit is charming, emotionally mature, and I love how he treated Aarti like a gentleman from the beginning, despite their complicated connection. He's calm, calculated, yet so protective when it comes to Aarti.

🌷 Aarti is the kind of woman I aspire to be when I grow up. She's fierce, confident, kind, and so strong. Despite her struggles, she never once cowered—she stood tall with her head held high and handled every situation with grace, and I appreciate that so much.

🌷 It's difficult to find side characters in a book that you fall in love with — but this book was full of them. I loved Devi; she's kind, smart, and witty. Sujit's family members were lovely — Padma, Cathy, his parents — I adored all of them. And Aarti's family? I loved her relationship with her father; it was so heartwarming. And her mother as well.

💌𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐭? Very addictive. I loved the idea, even though the whole "exes' ex-exes' exes" confused me sometimes, haha. The story was amazing — I just couldn't get enough of it. (Dear author, please give us more of Sujit and Aarti 😭)

💌𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠? Perfect. Amazing. The pacing was just right — it wasn't slow, nor was it rushed. I love how gradually Aarti and Sujit's relationship developed; it felt realistic. This is one of the main reasons I loved this book. It's often difficult to find that perfect pacing for the plot and for the characters' relationships, but this book did it so well.

💌𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:

I 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃 this book. I loved the writing, the humor and banter, and the emotional scenes written so well when necessary. I 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐲 recommend this book!!

🍁I received the ARC copy in exchange of an honest review.
Profile Image for Reader By Dusk.
38 reviews5 followers
June 21, 2025
This book is about Aarti Bhatia and Sujit Rao. Both of them have suffered heart break from their exes but found solace in each other. But the main twist in the plot is Sujit is Aarti's ex-fiancee's lovers ex. A whole lot of exes, a Forbidden Romance.

Aarti Bhatia is a kind of woman who never backs down from a challenge, she is fierce, heiress to her business, knows how to present herself in the public, and loves to read books. She comes from a high class family and helps her dad in the business and loves to work.

Sujit Rao is a person who is a kind hearted tech billionaire, who is loved a lot by his family and loved ones. He is kind to the person who is kind to him and his loved ones but one scratch on the person who he loves then that person is gone. Even though he is a billionaire but is a kind person and wants to help in society.

I loved this book so much. I mean I love Sujit Rao man this guy is such a green flag. He does so many things for her from bringing her books to reading it to her, he is always there for her whenever she needs someone to cry. He understands her so much, respects her for who she is. If Sujit understands Aarti well then Aarti knows Sujit's behaviour, she took him on vacation and danced with him even when she didn't want to. She knew that their relationship was forbidden but she was ready to take a chance and even to back out even if he wanted to back out. She was ready to risk everything for him.
I mean the way their scenes are written are so good that I wanted to read about them. One of my favourite scenes or chapters was when Aarti meets Tara and their conversation omg 😂. There were so many scenes where I wanted to close them in a room by God the tension between them was so intense 😩.
If you ask me if I will suggest this then YES this book has everything strong FMC, billionaire romance, second chance, desi romance, and the main The Ex-Factor.
Profile Image for Black Rose.
Author 2 books21 followers
June 3, 2025
💙ARC REVIEW💙

The Ex Factor by Varsha Chitnis
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Tropes:
🖋️ Billionaire romance
🥂 Slow burn
🖋️ MCs in their 30s
🥂 He falls first
🖋️ Indian rep
🥂 Angsty

First of all, thank you so much for letting me read and review this heartwarming and absolutely stunning book Varsha and @swipethebookpr

I have never seen a man as gentlemanly as Sujit. He's a whole damn green planet. He's checks all the boxes and then some. I mean glasses, class, social opinions and wish to do good, HAS NO MALE EGO. Come on!!! Where can I find one like him for me!!

And Aarti! She's so fricking cool! She has him wrapped around her finger and she doesn't even know it yet! I love how she gets possessive for him and would obliterate the world for just looking at Sujit wrong. And he would do the same, he, infact, did!

Their chemistry was off the charts. And I loved the angst and slow burn. It was so to the point. And it was just them!

And as for the side characters and the family. God, they were so supportive and caring and loving. I loved how loved they both were by the people they valued in their life.

And that's just the fictional plot. What I loved most about this book is how it talked about society and the prevailing issues that people seem to neglect and overlook.

The points about the 'etiquette' of the rich, the greed of the wealthy, the abuse of power by the influential people for their benefit. It's revolting honestly to be so self-centered and plunder the very world and people who make it so.

I appreciated how the book talked about finding closure with your ex and still loving them and wanting them happy, making friends with them and their partner. I loved how it broke the stigma of harbouring negativity in your heart for something no one had control over.

I also loved how they were mature about their feelings and didn't deny them even when everything around them pointed it to be the best course of action.

This book is by the one of the top five reads of my year so far!
Profile Image for Madhur.
92 reviews2 followers
June 11, 2025
Varsha Chitnis’s The Ex Factor delivers an emotionally layered, slow-burn billionaire romance that goes far beyond the usual tropes. With a sharp, socially conscious narrative that critiques wealth and class elitism, this novel blend heart, heat, and intelligence in a way few romances manage.
At the heart of the story is Aarti Bhatia, a fiercely independent and accomplished woman reeling from the emotional shock of her ex-fiancé’s upcoming wedding—to none other than the ex-girlfriend of Sujit Rao, the brilliant and devastatingly charming billionaire she meets in New York. What begins as a chance encounter quickly spirals into something deeper—complicated by a tangled web of shared history, societal scrutiny, and familial judgment.

Sujit is a golden retriever in billionaire form—loyal, earnest, and head over heels for Aarti from the start. He’s the kind of male lead who doesn’t play games but instead fights fiercely for what (and who) he wants. Aarti, meanwhile, is a classic black cat heroine—cautious, intelligent, and guarded—but never cold. Watching her slowly let her guard down as Sujit pushes through her emotional defences is a delight.

The chemistry between the two is electric yet believable, with the tension unfolding at a pace that honours both characters past wounds. The way the author handles the emotional baggage of old relationships, media interference, and cultural expectations adds depth and realism to the narrative.
This isn’t just a steamy billionaire fantasy—it’s a thoughtful exploration of privilege, vulnerability, and healing. Sujit and Aarti aren’t just hot together; they’re partners in every sense. The writing is lyrical yet grounded, with dialogue that sparkles and emotional beats that hit home.

The Ex Factor is easily a five-star read—romantic, powerful, and empowering. Varsha Chitnis is an author to watch.
395 reviews6 followers
May 25, 2025
"The Ex Factor" is a story that surprises you, not with twists and turns, but with its depth, emotional intelligence, and powerful portrayal of two souls trying to find love again in a world that once broke them. And the twist? Well, they are their ex's ex. But what lies beneath is a moving exploration of vulnerability, strength, and healing.

Aarti Bhatia, the heiress of SB Real Estate, is stunningly beautiful and incredibly smart. Yet, despite all her success and grace, she yearns for something deeply human, genuine love, not admiration for her wealth or looks. Opposite her is Sujit Rao, a tech billionaire whose charisma and kindness are matched only by his sincerity. A true romantic, Sujit is the kind of man who uplifts and cherishes his loved ones, but he, too, has faced public heartbreak.

When these two jilted souls cross paths during a business meeting, what begins as a formal interaction slowly melts into friendship, and something more. The chemistry is undeniable, but so is the past. The “Ex Factor” looms large, forcing them to confront wounds that never quite healed.

What makes this book shine is the way the author captures the quiet, unspoken emotions, the weight of a glance, and the slow rediscovery of trust. It’s not just about a second chance at love, but about self-worth, forgiveness, and the subtle power of connection. Aarti and Sujit’s story is a reminder that even in a modern, fast-paced world, kindness, loyalty, and emotional warmth still matter.

The book is beautifully layered, emotionally satisfying, and ultimately hopeful. I loved the other characters and truly hope to read more of their stories as well. The Ex Factor is a must-read for anyone who believes in second chances and the quiet power of love.
Profile Image for Shubhra Tripathi .
38 reviews
June 10, 2025
When I say I was hooked on this book I mean it. From the very first page, I didn’t want to put it down for even a second. What immediately drew me in was the refreshing and unique plot falling in love with your ex’s new partner’s ex. It’s not a storyline you come across often, and yet it was executed with such finesse and emotional depth that it felt both intriguing and completely believable.
Aarti and Sujit had me absolutely captivated. Their chemistry? Off the charts. That perfect, aching slow-burn romance that makes your heart ache and flutter at the same time? This book had it in spades. Every turn of the page brought new emotions, joy, tension, hope and I found myself fully immersed in their world. The pacing of their relationship, the emotional tension, the subtle moments they were all perfectly crafted.
What made this book stand out even more was how effortlessly it wove in real, everyday societal issues. The challenges faced by the characters weren’t exaggerated or glamorized; they were honest, and deeply relatable. And the portrayal of family its strength and its unwavering presence was incredibly moving. It reminded me how powerful family ties can be.
Both Aarti and Sujit were not just compelling together—they were powerful as individuals. I adored how well-developed their characters were, how they stood strong on their own, with depth, vulnerability, and resilience. Watching them navigate life, love, and healing made me root for them with every fiber of my being.
In short, this book was an emotional rollercoaster in the best way. Beautifully written, powerfully felt, and utterly unforgettable. If you’re a fan of heartfelt stories, rich character development, and chemistry that leaps off the page—you need this book in your life.
199 reviews1 follower
June 14, 2025
A wonderful book which brilliantly portrays on the challenges of finding love after a difficult breakup, The Ex Factor blows you away with its super powerful characters and gripping storyline.

The tale revolves around the messy love life of a tech billionaire Sujit Rao and real estate heiress Aarti Bhatia who are high profile entrepreneurs of the United States.

While both of them were brought face to face by fate especially over a business meeting, they began to fall for each other with the passage of time but still the wounds of their failed love affairs stings them. Can they get over the ex factor to find true love again?

The author has wonderfully brought alive the pain of the characters and how they overcome these barriers despite their trust issues over love.

Besides the spicy chemistry of Aarti and Sujit, the most noteworthy aspect brought alive by the author is how love can bloom beautifully even among partners who faced betrayals in love life in the past or trying to bond each other somehow on being tied up in arranged marriages is by performing daily little gestures or activities for each other with a cooperative helping hand.

Apart from Aarti and Sujit, the book also captures readers' hearts by narrating on how their parents and siblings found love through simple heartwarming moments.

The author has also brought alive on how some people often takes advantages of weaknesses of others just like the antagonist Manoj did in Aarti and Sujit's life.

The employer employee relationship has also been brought alive beautifully by the author. Sujit's noble acts for his employees had not only helped him retain them for life but also made him a highly respected billionaire with a golden heart.
Profile Image for Ritika Goyal.
116 reviews5 followers
June 11, 2025
You go get your happily ever after. Claim it, grab it, and never let it go.
..................
Where do I even start? Everytime I read Varsha's book , I always end up : feeling empowered from her FC's, be in awww of her MC's parents, and drooling over her golden retriever green forest MMC .

The fact that we often forget about the characters that get heart broken in the process of MC's making their way to each other and Varsha choosing them as her MC's, giving them their happily ever after in the most perfect way is something I'm admiring so much.1st chapter had broke my heart but the ending? It had mend it in such a beautiful heartfelt way.

Aarti and Sujit, being each other EX's EX was such a complicated and forbidden matter but Love has weird way of making it's way in a way you never could've each imagine. It founds you in an unexpected way in an unexpected situation with an unexpected person. And maybe, that what makes it beautiful isn't it?

When you live in a society where even little thing becomes a part of people's gossip, you can't even imagine what a big issue can do. This is something I hate about our culture , how even if something goes wrong it became more about "what will they think, how they'll react" instead of about the mental health of the person who's going through that. And that's what I loved about this book. How it felt so true reading this and how perfectly it had been coped with.

Aarti and Sujit, these two are so perfect for each other. The way they made their way to each other's heart and healed it is so beautiful and precious. If you're someone who loves reading about strong FMC's, adorable golden retriever MC, and supportive and lovable parents. Then pick this book immediately, trust me you won't regret.
Profile Image for Sachin Karnik.
Author 2 books6 followers
June 10, 2025
💥The Ex Factor – When Karma Plays Cupid💔

📚 Review by GetUrBook

I didn’t expect to enjoy The Ex Factor this much—but Varsha Chitnis had me hooked from the very first clash of ego and past wounds. Sujit Rao and Arti Bhatia aren’t your typical romantic leads—they’re strangers brought together by a very awkward connection: they’re exes of each other’s exes.

And if that sounds like the start of a messy group chat, trust me—it’s far messier in real life. Or in this case, fiction that feels way too real.

What begins as a chance meeting quickly unravels into a web of passive-aggressive banter, buried emotions, and unspoken hurt. Sujit, with his sharp edges and billionaire aura, collides with Arti’s razor-sharp wit and quiet dignity. They’re both damaged in their own ways—and yet, that’s exactly what makes their story so satisfying.

There were moments I laughed out loud (hello, awkward encounters) and moments I had to pause and feel. The way Chitnis captures heartbreak, pride, and emotional baggage is almost poetic. It made me think of the people we leave behind—and how sometimes, healing comes in the form of unexpected new beginnings.

The Ex Factor isn’t just a romance—it’s a delicious tangle of irony, redemption, and second chances. And as someone who believes fate has a wicked sense of humour, I thoroughly enjoyed watching it play matchmaker.

An entertaining, smart, and unexpectedly emotional rollercoaster.

#GetUrBookRecommends
#TheExFactor #VarshaChitnis #IndianRomance #BillionaireLove #BooksInIndia #BookstagramIndia #SecondChanceRomance #BookLover #EnemiesToLovers #GetUrBookReview #RomanceWithATwist #LoveAfterHeartbreak #KarmaShips
76 reviews13 followers
June 11, 2025
I just finished reading "The Ex Factor" by and I'm still reeling from the experience. This book is a masterclass in romance, with a complex, nuanced storyline that explores the intricacies of relationships, family dynamics, and social class.

The story follows Aarti Bhatia, a strong-willed and intelligent woman who finds herself drawn to Sujit Rao, a kind and brilliant billionaire. Their connection is instant, but their pasts are intertwined in ways they never could have imagined. Aarti's ex-fiancé is marrying Sujit's ex-girlfriend, and their families are deeply connected. Despite the complications, Aarti and Sujit can't deny their chemistr

One of the strengths of this book is its well-developed characters. Aarti and Sujit are multidimensional, with rich inner lives and relatable motivations. Their romance is very very slow-burning, but the tension between them is palpable. Both of then have scars of breakups and hence, are hesitant to take steps forward. But when they do fight for their love, I found myself rooting for them.

The writing is engaging, with a narrative voice that's both witty and introspective. The dialogue is snappy, with a great ear for character voice. But it's a slow slow slow burn.

What I loved most about this book is its portrayal of relationships. The author explores the complexities of love, family, and friendship in a way that's both realistic and optimistic. Aarti and Sujit's romance is not without its challenges, but their love for each other is genuine and hard-won.

Thus, "The Ex Factor" is a captivating romance that will appeal to fans of Billionaire romance and complex relationships.
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