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Just Calculating : A Student Professor Forbidden Romance
She was his brightest student. He was her greatest temptation.
In the small town of Picnicville, Carrie Harper is ready to make her mark as the only woman in a math classroom full of men. What she didn’t expect was to fall for the one man she absolutely shouldn’t—because falling for a professor is strictly off-limits.
Then there’s Professor Kush young, brilliant, and quietly intense. He’s the only faculty member qualified to teach advanced math—and Carrie’s favorite from day one. What starts as admiration quickly deepens. Behind his cool, professional exterior is a man who shares Carrie’s passion—for numbers, for learning... and eventually, for her.
As their secret relationship begins to blur the lines between right and wrong, Carrie and Kush must navigate more than just complex equations. What begins as mutual respect becomes a complicated secret. Because no matter how right it feels, being together could cost Carrie her future—and destroy Kush’s career.
In a town where whispers spread fast and secrets never stay buried, Carrie and Kush have to ask How much are they willing to risk for love?
Read this small-town student–professor forbidden romance packed with slow-burn chemistry, high-stakes drama, and a scandal that just won’t die.
In the small town of Picnicville, Carrie Harper is ready to make her mark as the only woman in a math classroom full of men. What she didn’t expect was to fall for the one man she absolutely shouldn’t—because falling for a professor is strictly off-limits.
Then there’s Professor Kush young, brilliant, and quietly intense. He’s the only faculty member qualified to teach advanced math—and Carrie’s favorite from day one. What starts as admiration quickly deepens. Behind his cool, professional exterior is a man who shares Carrie’s passion—for numbers, for learning... and eventually, for her.
As their secret relationship begins to blur the lines between right and wrong, Carrie and Kush must navigate more than just complex equations. What begins as mutual respect becomes a complicated secret. Because no matter how right it feels, being together could cost Carrie her future—and destroy Kush’s career.
In a town where whispers spread fast and secrets never stay buried, Carrie and Kush have to ask How much are they willing to risk for love?
Read this small-town student–professor forbidden romance packed with slow-burn chemistry, high-stakes drama, and a scandal that just won’t die.
90 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 18, 2025
4 people want to read
About the author
Dhara Shah
25 books49 followersDhara Shah is an American author based in Phoenix. She writes multicultural romantic comedies and contemporary romance novels and novellas, offering both spicy and sweet/clean stories. Her works feature relatable characters intricately woven into social, psychological, and physical relationships with others and society.
With a background in psychology, Dhara skillfully portrays her characters in real-life situations, adding depth and authenticity to her storytelling. A firm believer in happily-ever-after endings, she demonstrates that happiness can take many forms, depending on the individual.
As a first-generation American, Dhara embraces her dual heritage, , blending the richness of Indian and American cultures into her life and her writing.
With a background in psychology, Dhara skillfully portrays her characters in real-life situations, adding depth and authenticity to her storytelling. A firm believer in happily-ever-after endings, she demonstrates that happiness can take many forms, depending on the individual.
As a first-generation American, Dhara embraces her dual heritage, , blending the richness of Indian and American cultures into her life and her writing.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
May 20, 2025
Just Calculating by Dhara Shah is a superb read,I was hooked from the start,the first page had me engaged. Book two in series I immersed into this with ease but wow. From the start I could tell it has great heart and this was hot.
In the small of Picnicville ,the secrets it hides are shared wide,the privacy screen you deem to want can be seen by all. Such as this town is,everyone is there for one another ,but it all gets a bit much when you’re embarking on an elicit touch that some may view illicit even .But sure as eggs is eggs ,it’s Kush Bhatia and only him who Carrie Harper wants,no yearns for between her legs . She doesn’t want Max , he wants another ,he says.But when her Mr becomes aloof she thinks it’s proof he’s up to no good ,this is further understood when she learns that while she’s in her Math exam he was with another ma’am . Professor Elaine Weaver has claws in her Kush ,how she’s hating on that lush! How could he go to the city with her,and while Cassie’s back was turned? He knew she would be busy , this has her feeling sickened and dizzy . She’s distraught ,stricken and her lesson she’s learned. But her feelings for him they don’t lessen ,she does yearn. A misunderstanding he cries but he has to leave ,he won’t say why. Is she being deceived? Yes she does pry and it makes her mad ,but it’s not because he’s being a cad. Their relationship was on borrowed time .They couldn’t keep up the student teacher relationship and not get caught. Is this why they’re both overwrought. Well there’s a few other characters in the frame ,who are all too quick to point the blame at each of them. And there’s lots of angst and drama but this is Picnicville and even a professor who has done wrong may get his swan-song and can’t be thought of with ill will . So they don’t need the gendarme . But who else will fit the bill to run the Math department? They did what they felt had to done ,her family and his don’t get this but they’re there now to show they care. This is a feisty woman and a gentle man ,who never asked to fall in love ,didn’t dare, but were they really in the wrong? The age gap is a mere three years there’s two between her and Max and not an eyelid fluttered but Kush and she well things are uttered that aren’t nice. So their’s would be a great sacrifice if they were to get together. The town would frown and family members too. So what can they do? This was a beautifully crafted masterpiece of a taboo love story. The storyline is incredible . It’s executed extremely well with familiar characters from the first book in this delightful series . The supporting cast is first class,excuse the pun and with the compelling ,storytelling I was undone. Tears ,laughter ,swoon, and repeat ,oh my goodness this was sweet,hot and cute too. It has everything and more for you and Dhara Shah you had me melting and in love again insanely so .This story I wholeheartedly adore!Encore ! Can’t wait wait for book three! Give it to me now! Please….ma’am May we have more soon. Because you just made me swoon🫠
In the small of Picnicville ,the secrets it hides are shared wide,the privacy screen you deem to want can be seen by all. Such as this town is,everyone is there for one another ,but it all gets a bit much when you’re embarking on an elicit touch that some may view illicit even .But sure as eggs is eggs ,it’s Kush Bhatia and only him who Carrie Harper wants,no yearns for between her legs . She doesn’t want Max , he wants another ,he says.But when her Mr becomes aloof she thinks it’s proof he’s up to no good ,this is further understood when she learns that while she’s in her Math exam he was with another ma’am . Professor Elaine Weaver has claws in her Kush ,how she’s hating on that lush! How could he go to the city with her,and while Cassie’s back was turned? He knew she would be busy , this has her feeling sickened and dizzy . She’s distraught ,stricken and her lesson she’s learned. But her feelings for him they don’t lessen ,she does yearn. A misunderstanding he cries but he has to leave ,he won’t say why. Is she being deceived? Yes she does pry and it makes her mad ,but it’s not because he’s being a cad. Their relationship was on borrowed time .They couldn’t keep up the student teacher relationship and not get caught. Is this why they’re both overwrought. Well there’s a few other characters in the frame ,who are all too quick to point the blame at each of them. And there’s lots of angst and drama but this is Picnicville and even a professor who has done wrong may get his swan-song and can’t be thought of with ill will . So they don’t need the gendarme . But who else will fit the bill to run the Math department? They did what they felt had to done ,her family and his don’t get this but they’re there now to show they care. This is a feisty woman and a gentle man ,who never asked to fall in love ,didn’t dare, but were they really in the wrong? The age gap is a mere three years there’s two between her and Max and not an eyelid fluttered but Kush and she well things are uttered that aren’t nice. So their’s would be a great sacrifice if they were to get together. The town would frown and family members too. So what can they do? This was a beautifully crafted masterpiece of a taboo love story. The storyline is incredible . It’s executed extremely well with familiar characters from the first book in this delightful series . The supporting cast is first class,excuse the pun and with the compelling ,storytelling I was undone. Tears ,laughter ,swoon, and repeat ,oh my goodness this was sweet,hot and cute too. It has everything and more for you and Dhara Shah you had me melting and in love again insanely so .This story I wholeheartedly adore!Encore ! Can’t wait wait for book three! Give it to me now! Please….ma’am May we have more soon. Because you just made me swoon🫠
May 21, 2025
Carrie Harper has been the only female student of the Math class which is full of men. Her goal is to learn better and become richer but what she didn't expect was to fall for her professor, who is just three years older than her.
Kush Bhatia is the youngest Professor of the University and has been staying in Picnicville for the last three years but never showed interest in anything except his research until Carrie showed up being his brightest student.
Sparks flied and tension emerged between the two while the undeniable attraction seems to be killing enough to stay apart.
In a town where nothing remains secret, can Kush and Carrie are able to keep their forbidden relationship private and what happens if the town learns about them?
As usual, I am impressed with the engaging writing of the author as I completed this short novella in one sitting.
What's unique thing in this book is the portrayal of forbidden relationship, how it's not limited to physical fantasies but explored the emotions involved in it. Though, their connection in the start felt a little bit rushed, it picked up eventually and I enjoyed it till the last page.
I loved how the author changed the vibe of the book towards the conclusion and gives us a satisfactory feeling of reading a story of true love.
I recommend this to everyone who enjoy forbidden and interracial romances.
Kush Bhatia is the youngest Professor of the University and has been staying in Picnicville for the last three years but never showed interest in anything except his research until Carrie showed up being his brightest student.
Sparks flied and tension emerged between the two while the undeniable attraction seems to be killing enough to stay apart.
In a town where nothing remains secret, can Kush and Carrie are able to keep their forbidden relationship private and what happens if the town learns about them?
As usual, I am impressed with the engaging writing of the author as I completed this short novella in one sitting.
What's unique thing in this book is the portrayal of forbidden relationship, how it's not limited to physical fantasies but explored the emotions involved in it. Though, their connection in the start felt a little bit rushed, it picked up eventually and I enjoyed it till the last page.
I loved how the author changed the vibe of the book towards the conclusion and gives us a satisfactory feeling of reading a story of true love.
I recommend this to everyone who enjoy forbidden and interracial romances.
May 20, 2025
This book began with giggles, and ended with me shedding a tear or two (call me overly emotional but this is who I am 😭). This is a continuation to the first series in the book (that talks about Deepa and Caleb's relationship), which was left in a cliffhanger around Carrie's relationship.
Carrie is the sassy girl and I completely admire her character. Towards the end, there is a great character development in her. Kush is a practical and calculative person, which is of course the result of his profession. The side characters will be surprising to many! For example Max, he is such a supportive person all together.
Reading this series, I felt like Picnicville is a home for me as well. The hospitality that Kush receives despite being an outsider is overwhelming.
I really wished this was a longer book because of how wholesome this couple was, I did not want the book to end. I would have loved to know more about how they spent their time away from Picnicville.
You might think that a teacher student relationship is bizarre, but in this case, there is just a 3 year age gap between the two, which makes it completely legal.
If you're looking for a short book, which is a sweet rom com, this one is the perfect pick for you.
I am so excited to read Max and Mia's story next.
Carrie is the sassy girl and I completely admire her character. Towards the end, there is a great character development in her. Kush is a practical and calculative person, which is of course the result of his profession. The side characters will be surprising to many! For example Max, he is such a supportive person all together.
Reading this series, I felt like Picnicville is a home for me as well. The hospitality that Kush receives despite being an outsider is overwhelming.
I really wished this was a longer book because of how wholesome this couple was, I did not want the book to end. I would have loved to know more about how they spent their time away from Picnicville.
You might think that a teacher student relationship is bizarre, but in this case, there is just a 3 year age gap between the two, which makes it completely legal.
If you're looking for a short book, which is a sweet rom com, this one is the perfect pick for you.
I am so excited to read Max and Mia's story next.
May 21, 2025
This story about Professor Kush Bhatia and his student Carrie, who is pursuing her master’s, truly captures my heart. Set in the quaint and beautiful town of Picnicville, the atmosphere feels warm and inviting. The people in this town treat each other like family, always ready to help, which adds a comforting charm to the entire story.
Kush, a sharp and intelligent mathematics professor, shares a growing connection with Carrie. Their relationship is clearly complicated and considered ethically wrong, but the way it unfolds feels real and deeply emotional. The author does a wonderful job showing their inner conflict and the pull they feel toward each other.
The scenes that take place during their lab dates are some of my favorites, so simple, yet filled with emotion and intimacy. Every moment between them is written with care and depth, making their story feel honest and raw.
Even though I usually enjoy full-length novels, this shorter story leaves a strong impression. It’s crisp, emotional, and beautifully crafted. I find myself wanting more, not just of Kush and Carrie, but of Picnicville and its heartfelt stories.
I can’t wait to read more about this town and its unforgettable characters.
Kush, a sharp and intelligent mathematics professor, shares a growing connection with Carrie. Their relationship is clearly complicated and considered ethically wrong, but the way it unfolds feels real and deeply emotional. The author does a wonderful job showing their inner conflict and the pull they feel toward each other.
The scenes that take place during their lab dates are some of my favorites, so simple, yet filled with emotion and intimacy. Every moment between them is written with care and depth, making their story feel honest and raw.
Even though I usually enjoy full-length novels, this shorter story leaves a strong impression. It’s crisp, emotional, and beautifully crafted. I find myself wanting more, not just of Kush and Carrie, but of Picnicville and its heartfelt stories.
I can’t wait to read more about this town and its unforgettable characters.
May 24, 2025
This is a beautiful and unique romance novella which explores brilliantly the drama, suspense, secrecy, gossips and intrigue associated with the forbidden student teacher romantic relationship in society.
Just Calculating revolves around the love story of a Maths professor of Picnicville University Kush Bhatia and his student Carrie.
What I love most about this book is that Kush and Carrie shares a strong loving bond and a deep trust for each other which makes them stand unshakeable in their love and the duo strongly faces together the taunts of the society.
Their spicy romance, the filmy dating scenes with some basic lab instruments in the university, their sweet lovey dovey conversations are the most heatwarming aspects of this book.
Carrie's sacrifice at the time of Kush's time of distress and the way she helps him is heart touching.
Moreover, the strong friendship bonds of Carrie with Deepa and Max are lovely and the ways they go to protect Carrie when she flees away with Kush is worth noting.
The friendly community of Picnicville and the ways they go to help one another is also very beautiful.
Just Calculating revolves around the love story of a Maths professor of Picnicville University Kush Bhatia and his student Carrie.
What I love most about this book is that Kush and Carrie shares a strong loving bond and a deep trust for each other which makes them stand unshakeable in their love and the duo strongly faces together the taunts of the society.
Their spicy romance, the filmy dating scenes with some basic lab instruments in the university, their sweet lovey dovey conversations are the most heatwarming aspects of this book.
Carrie's sacrifice at the time of Kush's time of distress and the way she helps him is heart touching.
Moreover, the strong friendship bonds of Carrie with Deepa and Max are lovely and the ways they go to protect Carrie when she flees away with Kush is worth noting.
The friendly community of Picnicville and the ways they go to help one another is also very beautiful.
May 20, 2025
Just Calculating is the 2nd book in the Picnicville series. It’s a fast paced, small town, forbidden college romance and reads as a perfect palate cleanser and/or vacation read. Just Calculating follows the MCs Carrie and Professor Kush. They had a fun, slow burn style chemistry with good banter and an irresistible connection. I enjoyed both of the MCs. As a non- lover of the age gap trope, I appreciated that the age gap was minimal which took away any creepy relationship vibes. I also enjoyed the side characters, they were a fun addition to the book. The storyline was fun yet heartfelt and despite it's size it packed a gripping emotional pull. If you haven't tried this series, this is a light, quick read for your tbr. I am looking forward to continuing the series.
Themes & Tropes:
💚Forbidden Relationship
💛Student & Professor
❤️Small Town
💚College Romance
💛Slow Burn
❤️Age Gap (small)
Overall, liked this read!
Themes & Tropes:
💚Forbidden Relationship
💛Student & Professor
❤️Small Town
💚College Romance
💛Slow Burn
❤️Age Gap (small)
Overall, liked this read!
May 21, 2025
Just Calculating by Dhara Shah
Just Calculating is all about how people fall in love without any rules. Love just happens even when you know that it is wrong or forbidden or others might get hurt with it. Moreover, for love, how a person can do anything to be with them, even leave their loved ones behind.
📚 Story is about a student and professor who fall in love but no there is no major age gap.
📚 They try hard to stay apart but eventually find out a way to be together but it is followed by some hurdles that are tough to pass.
📚 It is short story with crisp, to the point and direct plot line.
📚 The story is gripping and so, you would want more details but as its a short story, you will have to do with it.
📚 Character sketch is good and there are enough side characters, who stories are mingled here and there.
Overall a quick read with a lot of fun!!
Just Calculating is all about how people fall in love without any rules. Love just happens even when you know that it is wrong or forbidden or others might get hurt with it. Moreover, for love, how a person can do anything to be with them, even leave their loved ones behind.
📚 Story is about a student and professor who fall in love but no there is no major age gap.
📚 They try hard to stay apart but eventually find out a way to be together but it is followed by some hurdles that are tough to pass.
📚 It is short story with crisp, to the point and direct plot line.
📚 The story is gripping and so, you would want more details but as its a short story, you will have to do with it.
📚 Character sketch is good and there are enough side characters, who stories are mingled here and there.
Overall a quick read with a lot of fun!!
May 21, 2025
Just Calculating by Dhara Shah caught me off guard in the best way. It's a slow-burn and forbidden romance between Carrie Harper, the only woman in her advanced math class, who is determined, ambitious, and incredibly sharp and the young and brilliant Professor Kush Bhatia, a math genius and brooding intellectual. But from the moment they meet, the connection, respect and passion for each other and the spark between them is undeniable.
You feel every glance, every hesitation, every internal battle and it’s SO satisfying when things finally bloom.
May 20, 2025
I was privileged to receive an advanced copy from the author. Thank you!
I enjoyed returning to Picnicville, and definitely would like to come back again (Mia’s story?!).
Shah was able to jam an awful lot of emotion into this novella. The heart wants what the heart wants, even when it’s taking a risk. Carrie and Kush had to make done difficult choice on their road to romance, and there were many hurdles sling the way. No spoilers - but sometimes it’s the hurdles that push you closer together.
I enjoyed returning to Picnicville, and definitely would like to come back again (Mia’s story?!).
Shah was able to jam an awful lot of emotion into this novella. The heart wants what the heart wants, even when it’s taking a risk. Carrie and Kush had to make done difficult choice on their road to romance, and there were many hurdles sling the way. No spoilers - but sometimes it’s the hurdles that push you closer together.
May 29, 2025
I thought that this story was handled well, delving into both characters’ internal struggles between what they wanted and what they knew was right. I found myself rooting for both of them.
When life throws a curveball in their path, Carrie is willing to sacrifice everything to stand by Kush’s side. This was a beautiful tale of true love and the sacrifices we sometimes make, just to have it. I loved this book.
I received an Arc of this book and am reviewing freely.
May 20, 2025
This was a really cute forbidden romance! Carrie is the only girl in her graduate math program, and she can't help but feel something with her professor, Kush. As they try and hold off, they realize that they can't stay apart, and being together for what life has thrown at them becomes their priority. Sweet and full of romance, this was a cute little story!
May 19, 2025
Thank you Dhara for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This is my first book by this author and I enjoyed it if you like small town, taboo romance, student x professor, age gap then you will like this novella. It’s short and sweet with another nosy small town people mixed in
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews