You Can’t Be Serious!: A North-Meets-South Royal Romance

by Prajwal Hegde

FOR FANS OF KHOOBSURAT AND GOSSIP GIRL, COMES A HILARIOUS AND SEXY ROYAL ROM-COM

AADITHA PRATHAP is the brilliant mastermind behind India's trendiest café chain, 'COFFEE Before Books & Bras' - because priorities, right? Sure, her family's fortune sparkles like new money does, but Aaditha is fiercely her own woman. She has absolutely no interest in being known as anyone's daughter, wife, or - cue the horror music - a royal daughter-in-law. With her business booming, you'd think life would be all smooth lattes and soft book nooks, but nope. Trolls of the internet variety love to take a swipe at her, dredging up chapters she had long buried. Now, owing her dad a favour, Aaditha is forced to consider... options. Even if it is in the form of a frustratingly charming, annoyingly exacting Indian prince.

Speaking of royals, VEDVEER RATHORE SINGH is an eco-warrior prince with a mission. He may have grown up playing polo and cricket under the royal sun, but after Harvard, he's back home and facing a harsh his family's finances are, well, not so princely. When a tempting offer to turn the majestic Ranibagh Palace into a luxury hotel comes knocking, Vedveer is willing to weigh it. But can this royal heartthrob find a way to save his legacy without losing his heart in the process?

In Prajwal Hegde's delightfully chaotic North-meets-South rom-com, culture and worlds collide in the most charming and unpredictable ways. Buckle up for a wild ride full of laughter, heart and a little bit of royal scandal!

Genres: Romance

304 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 23, 2025

About the author

Prajwal Hegde has been working with The Times of India since 2005, covering a number of sports. Prajwal lives in Bengaluru with her husband.

Reviews

[Smriii ♡˖ ࣪⊹ · Rating 3 out of 5]

First of all, a huge thank you to the book club for sending me a copy of this one!

“You Can't Be Serious” follows a prince-businesswoman romance, and I have to admit, that was a pairing I hadn't read before. I've read plenty of romances, but an actual prince falling for a successful businesswoman? That immediately caught my attention.

One thing I absolutely appreciated was that the author skipped the painfully overused "filthy rich billionaire guy and struggling poor girl" trope. Both characters had their own identities, ambitions, and standing, and that honestly felt so refreshing. More romances like this, PLEASE !!

I'll admit, the writing style took me a couple of chapters to settle into. The first two chapters felt a little unfamiliar, but by Chapter 3 or 4, I was completely in the flow and flew through the rest of the book.
Aaditha was definitely the highlight for me. She was confident, outspoken, stubborn in the best way possible, and refused to change herself just to fit someone else's expectations. I absolutely loved that. I also really enjoyed the friendships, the family dynamics, and the overall chaos that surrounded everyone. Vedveer was charming too, and there were moments between the two of them that genuinely made me smile. Their first kiss? Adorable. The Holi scenes? So cute.

...but here's where my brain started asking questions...
Someone please explain to me why I felt more chemistry between Aaditha and Raju than between the actual couple😭 Ofc Aaditha and Vedveer had cute moments, but their chemistry felt a little inconsistent. Sometimes it was there, and sometimes it just... vanished.

Another thing that kept bothering me throughout the book was the arranged marriage setup itself. I kept waiting for the real reason behind why they were agreeing to this arrangement, and I never felt like I got a convincing answer. It left me more confused than intrigued.

There were also a few plot holes that had me raising an eyebrow, and the ending felt way too rushed. It almost felt like everything was wrapped up in fast-forward mode. I genuinely think the finale could have been explored a little more because the story deserved a stronger landing.

That being said, did I have fun reading it? Absolutely.

This book is chaotic, dramatic, wholesome, slightly messy, filled with family drama, royal politics, arranged marriage shenanigans, banter, and plenty of rom-com moments. It's the kind of story where you don't overthink every little detail, you simply sit back and enjoy the ride.

If you're looking for a light, entertaining royal rom-com with lovable characters, family chaos, and an arranged marriage trope, this one is definitely worth picking up!!

[Booktrovertt · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a romcom that perfectly blends a modern businesswoman, a royal prince and a healthy dose of chaotic cultural collision, this book is a must read !🛐✨️

It is impossible not to completely fall in love with Aaditha. She is ambitious, hilariously funny, sassy and deeply empathetic 🤍 There is an authenticity to her character that makes her feel incredibly personal and relatable !!✨️

And VedVeer ?? Ughh an ABSOLUTE DREAM🫠🛐 The way he goes out of his way to make her feel comfortable (even when they barely know each other) is incredibly adorable and heart melting ✨️

The dynamic between them is top tier ! Their interactions and banters are filled with the kind of electric chemistry that left me giggling and grinning like an idiot🤭💕

Prajwal Hegde's writing style is incredibly addictive, cinematic and engaging that I completed inhaled the book in less than 24 hours 😭💕

An easy 5 star read for me ! Highly recommend it 🫶🏼

[a_geminireader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes you pick up a book thinking it will just be a light, fun romance and then it quietly surprises you by becoming something comforting and heartfelt. " You Can’t Be Serious!" was exactly that kind of read for me. What started as a royal arranged-marriage story slowly unfolded into a soft, emotionally grounding journey about love, expectations, and finding your place without losing yourself.

The story revolves around Aaditha Prathap, an ambitious entrepreneur who has built her life on independence and hard work, and Vedveer Rathore Singh, an eco-conscious crown prince bound by duty and tradition. Their marriage begins as an obligation, something decided more by circumstance than emotion, yet watching their relationship grow felt incredibly natural almost like witnessing two strangers slowly learning how to become home for each other.

What truly made this book special for me was its calmness. There’s no exaggerated drama or forced misunderstandings; instead, the romance grows through small gestures, quiet conversations, and mutual respect. Vedveer’s steady support when Aaditha struggles with public judgment and royal expectations made their relationship feel safe and reassuring. He doesn’t try to change her he understands her, and that emotional maturity added so much depth to the story.

Beyond the romance, the book gently explores the pressure women often face when society starts defining their worth through marriage timelines and expectations. Aaditha’s internal conflicts felt real and relatable, making her more than just a romantic lead she felt like someone you might actually know. Her strength, vulnerability, and moments of self-doubt added a beautiful emotional layer that stayed with me long after I turned the last page.

Vedveer, on the other hand, is the kind of fictional man who doesn’t need grand declarations to show love. His care appears in patience, respect, and quiet reassurance and honestly, those moments felt more romantic than dramatic confessions ever could. Their chemistry is soft rather than intense, built on understanding instead of instant passion, which made their love story feel genuine and comforting.

Reading this book felt like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a slow evening peaceful, soothing, and emotionally fulfilling. It’s the kind of story you turn to when you want romance without chaos, emotions without heaviness, and characters who grow together instead of against each other.

[Shruti Gupta · Rating 4 out of 5]

4🌟

When I picked up this book, i expected it to be a cute, simple and giggly rom-com. However, I like that it was more than just that.
I loved the FMC. She was a strong and hardworking businesswoman who had such depth to her and I loved it.
The MMC too surprised me in the best way. He was gentle, patient and actually listened to the FMC. His royalness did not make him cold hearted or slightly rude, as typically shown.
They both come from extremely different backgrounds but I liked how he tried his best to make her feel as comfortable as possible and I think that was my fav part of the book.

The only problem I had was that the ending felt slightly rushed and we left off the things with Arjun and Kairi without a proper resolution.

[LR 135 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved this book such a fun romance that kept me glued throughout. What made me pickup this book was the setup as I cannot resist royal romances and some of my favourite guilty pleasures are movies like Khoobsurat. When I read the setup, I was expecting something more similar to the netflix show The Royals however I was pleasantly surprised. The romance flows nicely and the lack of histrionics is a welcome change. I especially liked how everything felt so natural even the integration of the paparazzi gossip pages. Additionally, Aaditha and Vedveer felt very mature even while dealing with a lot.

If there was something I disliked is that the lead's professions are mentioned so little. This is a very minor flaw however the characters are often mentioned to be so passionate about their work but as a reader I didn't feel like I got actual examples of them doing the work they care so much about.

But overall, a great romance book and eager to read the next one!

[Anandarupa Chakrabarti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some books are tender and comforting, and so charmingly witty that you often have no choice other than 'just one chapter more, please!'.
Prajwal Hedge's 'You Can't Be Serious!' was a delicious experience, a delightful blend of romance, humour, family expectations, cultural contrasts, and royal glamour, all wrapped in a thoroughly modern Indian setting.

At the heart of the story are Aaditha Prathap, an ambitious businesswoman who has built a successful café empire, and Vedveer Rathore Singh, a thoughtful prince struggling to balance royal responsibilities with his own dreams. Their worlds could not be more different. She thrives on independence and self-made success, while he carries the burden of tradition and legacy. When circumstances push them together, what follows is a charming journey filled with witty exchanges, emotional growth, and unexpected affection. Both characters have their own highlights of individual growth and understanding of each other's world through the taste of both empathy and fights. Aaditha doesn't fall isn't your obvious marriage material woman: she's unapologetically confident, self-made and refuses to lose her identity under the persuasion of society. Slowly and gradually, the arranged marriage rishta made her a woman trying to navigate ambition, family obligations, and personal happiness simultaneously. Vedveer is a prodigy in my eyes. He's that youthful, mature and emotionally intelligent man who denies being automated, read born with a silver spoon, with a legacy, rather he proves it why he's the befitting Yuvraj for the Rathore legacy.

Hegde beautifully captures the cultural nuances, traditions, and occasional clashes that arise when two very different backgrounds come together. Instead of relying on clichés, the novel uses these differences to create humour, depth, and warmth.
The royal backdrop adds an extra layer of glamour, while modern elements such as social media scrutiny and public expectations keep the story grounded in contemporary reality. Beneath the light-hearted romance, the book also touches upon themes of identity, societal pressure, and the expectations placed upon women regarding marriage and success.
Prajwal Hegde's writing is engaging, cinematic, and easy to immerse oneself in. For someone like me who finds slow-burn romances diminishing the narrative, making it boring, Prajwal skillfully develops the scenes, making the characters shine through their different cultures, adaptating each other's traits. Each chapter kept the sparkle of their love and liking alive.

You Can't Be Serious! felt like watching a feel-good Bollywood rom-com unfold on the pages of a book. It is warm, entertaining, and filled with characters who gradually find a place in your heart. A heartwarming royal romance that perfectly blends modern aspirations, cultural diversity, and the magic of unexpected love.

[chapter.n.chatter · Rating 4 out of 5]

​What happens when an independent, self-made South Indian cafe owner meets an exacting, Harvard-educated North Indian prince? You Can’t Be Serious! by Prajwal Hegde is a completely delightful, breezy, modern royal romance published by Hachette India.

​The story follows Aaditha, the brilliant mind behind a trendy cafe chain, who has zero interest in becoming a royal daughter-in-law.

On the flip side is Vedveer, an eco-warrior prince trying to save his family estate. When an arranged marriage setup forces their worlds to collide, what follows is a chaotic, witty, and heartwarming journey from friction to a deep, mature connection.

​What really worked for me was the refreshing dynamic between the leads. Aaditha is fierce, ambitious, and deeply real, while Vedveer is a patient, supportive green flag of a hero.

The slow-burn romance builds beautifully through mutual respect rather than forced drama, and the North-meets-South cultural elements add so much warmth and depth to the narrative. The royal backdrop, complete with palace drama and social media chaos, keeps you hooked from the start.

​While the middle section slowed down a bit and a few misunderstandings felt slightly stretched, the emotional payoff and the fluid, witty writing style made it an incredibly comforting read. It truly feels like a warm hug.

​✅ Who should read
* ​Fans of royal romances and arranged marriage tropes
* ​Readers looking for a light, feel good, slow burn comfort read
* ​Anyone who loves strong, independent female leads and green flag heroes

​❌ Who should skip
* ​Those looking for high-angst or fast-paced thrillers
* ​Readers who prefer intense, heavy drama over cozy romcoms

Have you added this breezy royal romance to your TBR yet

[Mish · Rating 3 out of 5]

"I don’t know why, but I get the feeling that he says a prayer before saying my name every time”

You Can't Be A Serious is a Royal Arrange Marriage romance between the Crown Prince of Jaipur Ved Veer Singh, and the CEO of Coffee Before Books and Bra as well Karnataka's finance minister's daughter Aaditha Prathap. What starts as a business opportunity transforms into a beautiful relationship between the two of them, but of course it takes time and a lot of unravelling to get there.

The banter between them is the heart of the book. From the first moment they meet, their Banter is how they connect and slowly it transforms from riling each other up to Flirting to their communication deepening. For me the slow burn of falling in love via the attraction first, knowing each other slowly and then falling for each other was done very well. You can tell when the characters are changing in their feelings. The love at heart is beautiful.

I think the con for me was the book could have been 40-50 pages longer because it's not a marriage of convenience as much as it's an arranged marriage, so the story feels a little suspended in time when it ends. I would have loved seeing Aaditha's life as the Rajkumari and how she handled royal responsibilities alongside being true to herself since it's a big part of her story. The book also hints at Binge ED and anxiety, but we never get a complete conversation between Veer and Aaditha about it. They fall in love but does that love stand the test of a living a real life together? We never find out unless we get a book 2 which I am absolutely in support of.

Nevertheless, it's an engaging read that I recommend everyone to try once!

[The Book Times · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect opposites pushed into forced proximity.
Aadhita (Unique name btw) is a strong character indeed. She built everything from scratch and took her stand when the world was belittling her, for example the washroom scene at the Polo game.
Vedveer was so smitten by her! He's a green forest, and a hot guy (PS : The description compelled me to draw him in my mind).
This blend of North meets South and Politics meet Royalty is aptly represented. I must also appreciate the writing style of the author - it was coherent and ROYAL! The banter with which the book began was so fun to read, example how everyone pronounced Aadhita's name incorrectly so she would mispronounce their name. Also, this book gave a lot of Bridgerton vibes with the TT gossip column.

[pagesofsia_ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️.75
Spice: .50

had really high expectations going into this book—the premise itself was incredibly appealing. The idea of a commoner with newfound wealth entering into an arranged marriage with royalty had so much potential for depth, conflict, and emotional tension.

However, as I progressed through the story, it felt like the narrative was stumbling rather than flowing. I often found myself questioning where the plot was actually headed, as it lacked clarity and direction at several points. Unfortunately, I also struggled to form a strong connection with most of the characters.

That said, the FMC truly stood out. She was portrayed as an independent, strong businesswoman with an intelligent and grounded mindset, which made her both admirable and relatable. She was, without a doubt, the highlight of the book for me.

The biggest letdown, however, was the ending. The final few pages felt rushed, and the conclusion came across as abrupt, leaving several aspects feeling unresolved. It would have been better if the story was left on cliff hanger and the next book kind of had shown emotional breakdown, revenge, betrayal that could had built a better sub plot uk what I mean.

Overall, while the concept was promising and the FMC was compelling, the execution didn’t fully deliver on its potential.

[Abhilasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

You Can’t Be Serious is a light, easygoing royal rom-com that blends arranged marriage with modern love in a way that feels familiar and comforting. It follows Aaditha Pratap, the brilliant mind behind India’s trendy café chain Coffee Before Books & Bras, and Vedveer Rathore Singh, an eco-conscious crown prince bound by tradition, duty, and the weight of royal expectations.

I picked this up expecting a cute royal arranged marriage story — comfort read, pretty palace vibes, soft romance. And while it absolutely delivers on that, I didn’t expect to get this invested.

This is the kind of book you read when you want something calm and cozy. There’s no over-the-top drama or emotional exhaustion — just a steady, pleasant romance that unfolds at its own pace. The chemistry didn’t always give me butterflies, but the warmth between the characters more than made up for it. What I genuinely loved was how Vedveer stands up for Aaditha when she’s constantly being corrected on how to sit, eat, speak, and even love “like a royal,” all under public scrutiny. Those moments felt quietly powerful and deeply reassuring.

What surprised me most was how close to home some parts hit. The portrayal of parental pressure when a daughter reaches a certain age — unmarried, without a boyfriend, and suddenly everyone’s concern — felt a little too real. The fear, the constant questioning, the lack of space to choose freely… it’s something so many girls experience. That layer of realism added emotional depth I wasn’t expecting from such a light read.

Now let’s talk about Aaditha — because I love her. She’s elegant and confident without being written as some unattainable “perfect beauty.” She has presence. She has ambition. She has her own identity. And she’s just a little bit of a troublemaker in the best way. Launching her coffee outlet right opposite her sasural, at the gates of Ranibagh Palace? Icon behaviour. And that Jaipur event scene — when she showed up without her engagement ring and casually let the paparazzi notice? She didn’t need to say a word. That was such a powerful, satisfying moment.

Vedveer is equally compelling. Yes, he’s a handsome crown prince, but he’s also soft in his own way. Mature. Thoughtful. Supportive. You understand the hype.

One scene I can’t stop thinking about is the kiss — soft, funny, unexpectedly intimate. The fact that she only remembers it at the end made it oddly satisfying and added a sweet full-circle moment to their journey.

If I had to nitpick, I wish we saw more of their professional lives in action. We’re told they’re passionate about their work, but I would have loved more concrete moments showing that passion.

Overall, You Can’t Be Serious is a sweet, comforting royal romance that leaves you warm and thoughtful. The romance flows naturally, the integration of paparazzi gossip feels seamless, and the maturity of both leads makes the story even more enjoyable.

Such a fun read — and I’m definitely excited for the next one. ⭐✨

[Astha Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 Book Review

Book Name: You Can’t Be Serious!
Author: Prajwal Hegde
Review by: @astha_reads
Genre: Contemporary Romance / Rom-Com
Tropes: Arranged Marriage, North-South Cultural Clash, Slow-Burn Romance, Royal Romance
Pages: 304


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🌟 What’s the Story?

This book felt like a fun Bollywood rom-com with a dash of Gossip Girl drama. The story moves between Bengaluru’s busy cafes and Jaipur’s royal palaces. Aaditha, a confident and independent South Indian entrepreneur, runs a cafe chain, while Vedveer, a thoughtful eco-conscious prince, comes from Jaipur. Their families want them to marry, but they are very different people! With family pressure and the gossip column “Tittle Tattle” constantly on their case, their initial clashes slowly turn into a sweet slow-burn romance.


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💖 What I Loved

💗 Aaditha is a Queen
I loved how she stayed true to herself, independent, bold, and never trying to change for anyone.

💗 Vedveer is the Ultimate Green Flag
Calm, caring and respectful. I really liked how he supported Aaditha’s dreams without trying to control anything.

💗 Their Fun Banter
Their conversations genuinely made me smile. The chemistry felt natural and refreshing.

💗 The Cultural Contrast
Bengaluru’s café vibe and Jaipur’s royal ambience were described so beautifully that it felt like I was actually there.

💗 Tittle Tattle
The gossip blog added such a fun, modern touch. It kept the story lively and relatable.


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🤏 What Didn’t Work for Me

• A Little Long at Times
Some parts in the middle felt slow, especially with the detailed work and family discussions.

• Less Romance Than Expected
I personally wanted more moments between the two leads. A lot of the focus stayed on business and family matters.

• The Ending Felt Slightly Rushed
After such a slow-burn build-up, the finale wrapped up a bit quickly, but it still left me satisfied.

(These are just my personal thoughts, the story is still very enjoyable and heartwarming!)


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🎯 Who Should Read This?

💌 Fans of slow-burn romance and arranged marriage tropes.

💌 Bollywood movie lovers, especially if you liked Khoobsurat or 2 States.

💌 Readers who enjoy strong, independent heroines and kind, supportive heroes.

💌 Anyone looking for a light, feel-good romance with cultural depth.


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🌷 Final Thoughts & Rating

Overall, You Can’t Be Serious! is a warm, breezy, feel-good read. It made me laugh, smile, and root for the characters. Prajwal Hegde’s writing is fun, modern, and cinematic. Perfect for a weekend read with coffee.

⭐ Rating: 5/5

💬 "A royal romance with a modern heart!"


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[Soumya Juyal · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked up You Can’t Be Serious by Prajwal Hegde with a very specific intention I wanted to finally experience an Indian romance that felt like home, something that would mirror the nuances, the familiarity, the emotional language we grow up around. And maybe that’s exactly why this reading experience felt… strange.

There’s something deeply intimate about reading a romance set in your own cultural context. The words, the gestures, the dynamics they don’t feel distant or fictional anymore. They feel real. Almost too real. And for me, that closeness created a kind of discomfort I wasn’t expecting. I went in open-minded, genuinely hoping this book would sway me, but I found myself constantly pulled in and out of the story.

The writing, at times, felt overly flowery like it was trying a little too hard to romanticize moments that could have been more impactful in their simplicity. And yet, despite that, the book had this strange push-and-pull effect. It would grip me in one chapter and then lose me in the next. Hot and cold, almost like the relationship it was portraying.

The male main character, though I have to admit was swoony. There’s a sincerity to him, an honesty that makes you want to root for him. The way he expresses affection, especially when he calls her “jaan,” had me melting a little. It felt soft, intimate, very desi in a way that works. But even that had moments where the timing felt off, like the emotional weight of the moment didn’t fully earn the gesture.

The female main character, on the other hand, was harder to connect with. She had moments of strength, yes, but overall she felt slightly one-note to me. At times even a bit irritating not because she was flawed (which is human), but because she lacked the emotional depth that allows a reader, especially a female reader, to truly see themselves in her. I wanted more layers, more vulnerability, something that made her feel as alive as the romance was trying to be.

This is, of course, just my personal experience but I walked away feeling conflicted. There are elements of this book that genuinely work, and others that left me wanting more. Maybe it’s the closeness to reality, maybe it’s the expectations I carried in but this wasn’t the sweeping, consuming Indian romance I had hoped for.

Still, it’s a start. And maybe that counts for something.

[thebookaliciousgirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently watched the K-drama "Perfect Crown", and then I picked this book up, not knowing it would be similar. Reading this book felt like rewatching the whole series all over again, but this time in an Indian bookish version. The beginning felt a little boring, but after the couple's meetup, I couldn't stop myself from reading the book further. I never felt like I was reading a book, it felt more like I was watching a series or a Bollywood movie, and with all the title-tatle gossips, it never felt like a book. It was really fun to read the book, and I really enjoyed my time with it.

The story is set in both North and South, which has a royal touch to it. It's a story about Aaditha and Vedveer, who are completely opposite to each other. I can totally imagine them together, they're too cute. Their chemistry and spark in every chapter made me read the book further. I really liked Aaditha's character, a strong, self-made cafe owner, who's confident, independent, and doesn't want to lose herself or adjust according to society's needs (clock it energy). On the other hand, Vedveer is a crown prince who has to balance royal duties with his own dreams. He's young, mature, and proves that he truly deserves to be the Yuvraj of the Rathore family. It's a forced proximity arranged marriage, so when life pushes them into a marriage, their journey takes a twisted turn, with fights, funny talks, and a lot of learning about each other's worlds. Their bonding grows slowly as they understand each other and start to care in a real way. The book shows how two different backgrounds can clash together and create warmth and depth instead of just drama.

I really loved the writing style. Hegde didn't let me feel bored, instead, I enjoyed it. I was totally lost in their story. If you love royal stories like me, you'd imagine yourself instead of Aaditha in the story. Hegde also uses real cultural details, traditions, and even modern things like social media pressure to keep it grounded (full K-drama "Perfect Crown" vibes). Overall, if you love slow-burn romance, opposite attracts, strangers-to-lovers, royal vs commoner, 2 states, arranged marriage tropes, then you must pick this one and get lost in Aaditha and Vedveer's story. I'm sure their story will stay with you long after you finish reading, like it's going to with me.

[Shalusbookishdelights · Rating 4 out of 5]

You Can’t Be Serious is a light, easygoing royal rom-com that mixes arranged marriage with modern love in a way that feels familiar and comforting. The story revolves around Aaditha Prathap, the brains behind India’s trendy café chain, Coffee Before Books & Bras, and Vedveer Rathore Singh, an eco-conscious prince bound by tradition, duty, and the expectations that come with royalty.

This is the kind of book you read when you want something calm and cozy. There is no over-the-top drama, no emotional exhaustion, just a steady, pleasant story that unfolds at its own pace. The chemistry did not always give me butterflies, but the warmth between the characters made up for it. What I genuinely loved was how the male lead stands up for the female lead when she is constantly being corrected on how to sit, eat, speak, and even love like a royal, all under public scrutiny. Those moments felt reassuring and quietly powerful.

What surprised me was how close to home some parts hit. The way parents behave when their daughter reaches a certain age, is unmarried, and does not have a boyfriend was portrayed in a way that felt a little too real. The pressure, the fear, and the lack of space to choose freely were unsettling because this is something so many girls experience, especially those who do not date or do not feel strong enough to fight back. That layer of realism added an emotional depth I was not expecting from such a light read.

One scene I cannot stop thinking about is the kiss. She was drunk, he was completely aware, and she forgot about it entirely. That moment was soft, funny, and strangely intimate. The fact that she only remembers it at the end made it even better and oddly satisfying.

And can we talk about the cover for a second? It is beautiful. The royal romance vibe, one holding a teacup and the other a coffee mug, with love sitting right between them, sums up the story perfectly.

Overall, You Can’t Be Serious is a sweet, comforting read that leaves you feeling warm and thoughtful. It is not meant to sweep you off your feet, but it stays with you in a quiet way, and honestly, sometimes that is exactly what you need.

[Sohini · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book thinking okay… it’s going to be a cute royal arranged marriage story. Like a comfort read… pretty vibes… palace aesthetics… that thing.
But then I actually got into it and I was like wait… why am I so invested? 😭

So basically it’s a royal affair between a crown prince and a girl who is literally a business genius. And what I loved the most is how their worlds are so different… geographically and politically too… and still their families tie them together with an arranged marriage. It’s giving drama, tension, soft romance, and power couple energy all at once.

Now let’s talk about Aaditha… because I love her. Like genuinely.
She is beautiful and elegant, yes… but the author doesn’t write her in that typical “perfect beauty standard” way and I loved that so much. She has presence. She has confidence. She has her own identity. And she’s a lil bit of a troublemaker too… which makes her even more fun.

One of my favourite moments was when she literally took pride in launching her coffee shop outlet right opposite her sasural… like right at the gate of Ranibagh Palace. I mean… the audacity?? The confidence?? Icon behaviour.
And then that Jaipur event scene… when she was angry at Vedveer and went bare fingers without the engagement ring and casually flaunted it to the paps. Like she didn’t even need to say anything… she made a whole statement. That was so satisfying to read.

Vedveer… omg. He is cute throughout the book.
Like yes he’s a crown prince and he’s handsome and all that… but he’s also soft in his own way. And the way he is written makes you feel like okay fine… I get it… I get the hype. He’s that guy.

Also… the spice at the end? Totally worth it.
I’d say this book is for everyone honestly… and yes the spice is more towards the end, so I’ll rate it medium spice because it hits right when you need it to. So therefore… perfect payoff.

If you love royal romance, arranged marriage tropes, strong female leads, a cute crown prince, and that satisfying tension that keeps you flipping pages… please pick this up.
And yes… detailed reel coming soon because I have so much to say 🫶👑📚

[Maanya Rathore · Rating 4 out of 5]

I originally picked up this book because the cover instantly caught my eye. It has that bright, fun rom-com energy that makes you feel like you're about to read something light and entertaining. The idea of a royal love story also sounded really appealing to me because I'm always a little curious about books that mix royalty with modern romance (I'm from Rajasthan so that explains). And I'm glad I picked it up, because it was dramatic in the best way, chaotically warm with fuzzy romance and had that royal charm.

Our MMC, Vedveer was definitely one of the highlights of the book for me. He has that classic royal charm, but what I appreciated more was the way his character balanced confidence with responsibility (I'm biased for dependable men). He isn't just the typical charming hero but there's a genuine sense of duty and care in the way he approaches things. He's so thoughtful at times that made my heart swoon. The way he was stubborn and protective at times, made his character feel more layered. I liked that he wasn't written as a perfect prince charming but as someone trying to navigate through life, through expectations all the while still following his heart.

Our FMC, Aaditha was equally interesting in her own way. She's strong-willed, ambitious, and very clear about what she wants from life, which made her feel quite relatable.I loved how independent she is, how she does not bend to other people's expectations. She has a very determined state of mind, but she also has moments of vulnerability and conflict that make her feel more real to me. Her actions, especially as she tries to cope with complicated emotions and situations, felt very relatable to me, which made me feel connected to her.

Overall, I really liked this one. It had a fairly quick pace, which made it easy to flip through the pages, and it had a simple writing style without too many flowery words. It has that dramatic, slightly chaotic rom-com vibe that makes the story fun rather than heavy. I also enjoyed the presence of side characters. They aided the story and made it more fun. All in all it's very cozy, warm and light hearted.

[Soumili · Rating 4 out of 5]

You Can't Be Serious! By @praj_hegde is exactly the kind of rom-com that doesn't try too hard to be dramatic. It's A light, comforting, feel-good romance, and it delivers. With an arranged marriage between an independent café owner AADITHA and a thoughtful crown prince VEDVEER, the story blends royal expectations with modern relationships in a way that feels fresh and easy to read.

Aaditha was easily my favourite part of the book. She's ambitious, confident, and refuses to lose her identity just because she's stepping into royalty. Vedveer complements her perfectly. Instead of the typical brooding prince, he's patient, mature, and genuinely supportive. Their relationship isn't built on grand gestures or unnecessary misunderstandings. It grows through mutual respect, and learning to meet each other halfway, which makes the romance feel Satisfying to be honest.

The royal setting adds plenty of fun without overshadowing the story. media attention, family expectations, and the North-meets-South cultural differences create enough conflict to keep things engaging while still maintaining the novel's warm, cosy atmosphere. There are several moments that are funny, sweet, and quietly romantic, making this an ideal comfort read.

One thing I especially appreciated was how the book touches on the pressure many women face regarding marriage and expectations from family. Those moments add a little emotional depth . The chemistry between Aaditha and Vedveer may not be explosive, but their partnership is built on trust and understanding, making them easy to root for.

If I had one complaint, it would be that I wanted to see more of both leads in their professional lives. Since their passion for their work is mentioned repeatedly, a few more scenes showing them in action would have made their characters even stronger.

Overall, You Can't Be Serious! is a charming rom-com with mature characters, comforting romance, and just enough royal chaos to keep things entertaining. If you're looking for a breezy arranged marriage romance with a green-flag hero, a strong heroine, and plenty of cosy moments, this is a lovely pick.

[Musemanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book DESERVES TO GO VIRAL. I mean we all have seen this book everywhere, and I am sure you all are wondering if this book is actually worth it, well guess what, IT ISSSS. It's been a while since I have read a romance book that made me laugh, cry, cringe, and scream all at the same time.
I cannot get over Vedveer, nor do I think I will ever get over Vedveer, bhai, i mean the IDEAL INDIAN BOOK BOYFRIEND IS VEDVEER, and nobody can change my mind. Another huge highlight for me was just how cohesive the whole writing was?? Like see by cohesive I mean, it all flowed very smoothly, it's a common problem we see even in good authors is that the writing can sometimes be very choppy, like it's detailed at one point and fluid at another? Not this one. I loved how cohesive and uniform the writing was throughout the book.

Now let's move on to the Big 3 ✨✨

1. Language: The language of this book is genuinely so good. The language is very simple, simple in a way that, it's very easy to understand and enjoy. I loved that the author has not used any overly difficult vocabulary that sometimes can make reading a struggle, the simple language ensures that everyone regardless of their english proficiency can enjoy the book and read it easily. I also loved that the language is also perfect parts descriptive and dialogue focused.

2. Plot: The plot is very interesting, No spoilers but, you are going to be laughing your asses off reading this book, because oh my god, I think we finally have our own indian Ana huang, at this point I am waiting for more books by her. The plot is very hooky and detailed too, like there was not a single dull moment in the book and in the plot.

3. Characters: The characters in this book, are extremely well rounded and SO FUN AHHHHHH. For me the highlight was that each character had their own quirks, like every character had something unique about them, not a single person in the book was bland or like a flat character.

Overall, I absolutely loved this book, and cannot wait to read more from this author. We are waiting for your next book!!!

[thewitheringpages · Rating 3 out of 5]

An arranged marriage setup between Aaditha and Vedveer sets the stage for this beautiful story. Aditya is ambitious, confident, and a self-made coffee chain CEO from Bengaluru, while Vedveer is the charming royal prince of Jaipur. At first, both seem worlds apart, but the story takes us on a completely different journey through grand palaces, cozy coffee cafe, Oolong tea, and the anticipation of a royal wedding… or maybe not.

I didn’t expect to love the chemistry between these two as much as I did. Both are confident in their own ways, yet vulnerable when it matters. While one loves tea, the other prefers a bone-dry double-shot cappuccino, a small detail that beautifully reflects their contrasting personalities.

Both initially try to break free from this engagement arranged by their fathers, but watching their relationship unfold was such a delight. I especially loved how beautifully Aaditha’s character was written. She is smart, self-assured, and driven as a CEO, yet there are moments where life overwhelms her, making her feel incredibly real and relatable.

Vedveer, on the other hand, has such a charming presence. Despite carrying the responsibilities of being a royal prince, he is attentive, calm, and deeply understanding toward Aaditha.

The writing is effortless and immersive. It truly felt like I was right there in the palace corridors, taking in all the grandeur. Their conversations gave me butterflies and left me yearning for more. Even with their limited interactions at first, everything felt so natural and genuine.

And the absolute highlight of it all was Vedveer’s confession, easily one of the best I’ve ever read. It was heartfelt, beautifully written, and the kind of moment that gives you butterflies.

This is such a beautifully written South-meets-North romance that keeps you hooked until the very end, eager to know what happens between them.

Read this if you love strong, ambitious female leads, slow-burn romance, arranged marriage, royal affairs, and charming gentleman princes.

[Shriya♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some books are meant to be profound. Others are meant to entertain. You Can't Be Serious! happily embraces the latter and does it with charm.

At its heart, this is a modern royal romance that blends humour, family expectations, cultural differences, and a slow-burn love story into a delightfully cinematic read. It has the kind of energy that feels like watching a feel-good Bollywood rom-com: vibrant characters, witty banter, emotional moments, and just enough drama to keep the pages turning.

One of the book's biggest strengths is its protagonists. Aadhita is refreshingly independent, ambitious, and unapologetically herself. She doesn't lose her identity in the romance, which makes her easy to root for. Vedveer, on the other hand, is thoughtful, emotionally mature, and quietly supportive. Their personalities complement each other well and the chemistry between them is built through conversations, misunderstandings, shared moments, and gradual trust instead of relying solely on grand romantic gestures.

The North-meets-South cultural contrast adds another enjoyable layer to the story. Rather than existing just for comic relief, it highlights different traditions, perspectives, and family dynamics, making the world feel richer and more authentic.

Beyond the romance, the novel touches on expectations, those placed by family, society, and legacy. While these themes aren't explored in a deeply literary way, they add emotional weight to a story that primarily aims to entertain. The writing is simple and engaging, making it an effortless read. My only minor criticism is that the ending felt a little rushed. I just wished I had a little more time with these characters before the story came to a close.

Overall, You Can't Be Serious! is an enjoyable comfort read. It's funny, wholesome, romantic, and perfect for readers looking for a light-hearted escape with lovable characters and satisfying emotional growth. If you're in the mood for a feel-good romance that leaves you smiling by the final page, this one is well worth adding to your TBR.

[Siddhi Aggarwal · Rating 5 out of 5]

You Can't be Serious is cute Rom Com and a comforting read.🎀 But at the same time it has some drama and tension.🤌🏻

The story revolves around Aaditha and Vedveer. Aaditha is ever the perfect daughter. I love how her character is written.🌸 She is pretty, but she is also fierce, ambitious and confident. She is the CEO of Coffee Before Books & Bras. In the outside world it is believed that she is just the pretty face of the brand and her rich father is handling the business. But it is far from reality. She has put her soul into it.🎀

Now comes Vedveer, ever the charming Crown Prince. He is every girl's dream man. He is handsome, cute and soft at the same time. I loved how he noticed little things about Aaditha and made sure she didn't feel uncomfortable.🤌🏻

This story is a North meets South marriage royal affair. I loved how the author has blended both cultures so beautifully. The marriage started as an alliance between both the families. Both the families pushed them into the marriage and they both tried to break off the engagement. But the way they slowly came close has my heart.🫶🏻 N I was LIVING for their banter, flirting and little moments, chaotic and cuteee.🥹

I loved the rebellious side of Aaditha. The satisfaction she felt while opening her cafe chain in front of Rani Bagh gates was damn😂. Also can we talk about the little gestures of Vedveer, I melted when he told the maids to leave when they were trying to teach Aaditha the royal manners.😭 Andd I loved the Nickname Aaditha gave to him, "Ved".🥹

I felt so heartbroken when Vedveer accused Aaditha. But loved how he made up to her. On his knees holding her hands😭 Also I felt like Aaditha didn't deserve all the crap Tittle Tattle wrote about her. But she handled it really well.✨ All in all this was a fun cute and warm story.

If you love Arranged Marriage, royal family vibes and cafe aesthetics, this is your sign to pick up this cute romance book. 🌸✨

[aelins Courtt · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Desi royal x commoner romance with all the family and media drama✨

The start was really promising and I loved Aaditha's character from the start, her being so carrer oriented and a badass who knew what she wanted and won't compromise with her life for others. Similarly Vedveer and his big dreams really complemented each other. They both were actually really career driven and probably that's what made them a good match for each other. Romance was a proper slowburn from the start but I don't how they went from fighting to having sex in just few minutes in last 10% . It felt really abrupt, they haven't even said ' I like you' to each other and put if nowhere they are going on with 'I love yous'...it just came out as shocked. The chemistry was definitely there and clearly visible on every page but their relationship wasn't explored deeply, they never had any meaningful conversations which put me off.

I absolutely loved all the royal events and paparazzi drama, but the biggest letdown for me was the ending, it was so rushed and unresolved.

The whole switch between Bangalore and Jaipur setting was great and exploration of polo was so well written!!

The thing that made me mad was both of the characters never being straight with their parents even though they never wanted this marriage, especially Aaditha....she was the one who never wanted to get married and still went along with this charade, I didn't expect that from a strong character like Aaditha.
Also why was perents never giving a logical reasoning for how they met or came across each other? Or how did the marriage thing came into talk? Them repeating 'He/she is a perfect match" numerous times made me so furious 🤣 Like please have a conversation like an adult and stop avoiding it!


Overall I would say I have a bittersweet feelings for this book(maybe more on bitter side) but I still had a good time exploring this story. You should definitely give it a try if royal x commoner romance with drama is something you enjoy✨

[anibookglow · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fast paced rom-com, where the well organised life of Aaditha Prathap is suddenly intertwined with the Prince of Jaipur, Vedveer Rathore Singh in a marriage arranged by their parents. Imagine getting out from working out and suddenly your Parents call you saying, "There's a boy".

Aaditha Asha Prathap is the CEO of Coffee Before Books & Bras - chain cafe business brand , but people think she's just the face of a business her politician father is handling. And here's the deal, when she meets Vedveer he starts noticing little details of her personality which was rather unseen.

Vedveer being the Crown Prince is an Environmental engineer is on a mission to utilise and develop the palace organically. Here too his father drops a bombshell, suddenly he has to go to meet the perfect bride for him!

I feel Aaditha when she says she can't just let down her father who trusts her when her give up her study and starts a business .

Both the families are in a rush of marrying them, but will they let it happen?
On their first undecided dinner suddenly Aaditha kisses him drunk and he's probably drowned in her ;) Oops that was fast. Btw she forgot the kiss!

She tries to plan to break the marriage! But can she really accomplish? They get close with the announcement of their marriage publicly, they attend events together. She spends time with him in holi. This is the cutest phase. Sudden fleeting moments, sometimes he's flirting over chat. ( I giggled so much)

And boom a really breaking plot twists arrives, he misunderstands blames:( her.

But our coffee queen isn't the one to accept such behaviour! We all know he definitely needs grovelling not even a Prince get out of things like this! I think he needed more.

At last we get his heartfelt apology and confession!

All I think after reading this is why the story is so short I need more - more detailing and some bonus please!

[Aparna Prabhu · Rating 4 out of 5]

”This matrimonial business, especially arranged alliances, is messy even at the best of times. For most, that's excuse enough to back out.”

- Prajwal Hegde, You Can't Be Serious

Aaditha is the owner of a chic coffee venture called - COFFEE Before Books and Bras which she painstakingly developed herself. She's the daughter of a senior politician Prathap Gowda and Neela.

Vedveer Singh Rathore was born with a silver spoon, though he doesn't endorse all of his father's ideas and traditions. His father, Gaurav Singh Rathore was famous for his hunting skills.

What happens when these worlds collide in the form of a royal mis-matchmaking proposal? Do they hit it off or get hit by a bulldozer?

The hook in the initial chapter was Dua Lipa belting out the lyrics of ’Dance the Night’ which goes something like this -

”Diamonds under my eyes
Turn the rhythm up, don't you wanna just
Come along for the ride?”

Aaditha rolls out sassy lines like she's in the middle of a saltwater gargle. I developed an instant liking for her remarks on the royal family. She states this - ”They tread gently on a red carpet called tradition, while the rest of us arrive bouncing on a trampoline, juggling ten things at a time.” The slow simmering romance between Aaditha and Vedveer pushed me towards the edge of my seat.

Hegde voices her characters through a dual person pov. What could have been a forgetful pot boiler is a full-bodied Bollywood movie. The book elevates itself from being a normal romance that shoulders on ordinary tropes through blending multiple themes. And the cherry on the cake is Hegde's writing style that gets into the skin of her main protagonists. The Kannada words and phrases in the narrative were in the league of their own. Even though the first half was slow, the second half sealed the deal for me.

[Ditsa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aaditha Prathap has built her trendy café empire completely on her own terms, and she intends to keep it that way. She doesn’t want to be known as someone’s daughter who has southern political alliances , someone’s wife, or worst of all, a royal daughter-in-law. But owing her father a favour lands her directly in the path of Yuvraj Vedveer Rathore Singh, annoyingly perfect yuvraj with family responsibilities of his own, a palace at stake, and the kind of gentlemanly charm that makes you clutch invisible pearls a little.

I actually really loved how this book started. Aaditha’s passion for her work and her resistance towards marriage made her such a fun FMC to follow. And then Vedveer enters the story like a full-blown Bollywood hero. I mean…sir. How are you this nice? This emotionally mature? This gentlemanly? It almost became unbelievable at points But I genuinely loved the banter between them and how naturally they settled their misunderstandings without turning every conflict into unnecessary drama. The rich family setting, royal chaos, and “Tittle Tattle” sections added such a fun layer to the story too—it genuinely reminded me of Lady Whistledown’s papers every time they appeared!!The entire book also gave me major “The Royals” from Netflix energy, with a little bit of Khoobsurat and Two States mixed as well.

That said, I do wish we got more depth regarding the actual work both characters cared so much about, especially from Aaditha’s side. Since the story begins with her ambitions and business, I found myself wanting more of that cozy in depth ambience throughout the book. Overall though, this was a fun, glamorous royal rom com filled with banter, family drama, culture clashes, and a prince so perfect he genuinely had me side eyeing reality for a bit hehe<3

[Rujuta Desai · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Started this book for the royal chaos and stayed for the emotionally mature prince who communicates like therapy is free.” ☕👑✨

You Can’t Be Serious! turned out to be such an unexpectedly comforting read. It has royal drama, gossip columns, family pressure, cultural clashes, and all the chaotic energy of two completely different worlds colliding but at the heart of it, this story feels soft, warm, and incredibly genuine.

Aaditha was easily my favourite part of the book. She’s ambitious, independent, outspoken, and refuses to lose herself even when constantly pushed into a world full of rules and expectations. I loved how real she felt. Strong without trying too hard and vulnerable in such a human way.

And Vedveer? Absolute green flag behaviour from start to finish. He’s thoughtful, patient, caring, and quietly supportive in a way that makes you melt without even realizing it. Their romance is a slow burn done right. No unnecessary chaos, just gradual trust, comfort, tension, and two people slowly becoming important to each other.

I also loved how naturally the North meets South dynamic was written. The palace setting, public scrutiny, paparazzi gossip, and family expectations made the story feel fun and dramatic while still keeping the emotional moments grounded.

What surprised me most was how deeply some parts hit emotionally. Beneath the humour and royal glamour, the book talks about societal pressure on women, marriage expectations, and the fear of losing your individuality in a very honest way.

This book honestly feels like a warm cup of coffee during a rainy evening. Fun, cozy, dramatic in the best way, and filled with characters that slowly make a place for themselves in your heart. 💛

[Dipti Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book expecting a light, fluffy rom-com, and while it definitely gave me all the smiles, it turned out to be so much more than that.🧚🏻‍♀️💕

The first thing that stood out to me was how effortlessly the story captured the North-meets-South dynamic. ❤️ It never felt forced or exaggerated. The cultural differences, family traditions, little misunderstandings, and different ways of looking at life made the story feel authentic and added so much warmth to the romance. It honestly felt like watching one of those comfort Bollywood movies that make you laugh, smile, and leave you with a full heart. 🎬✨

I'm not a fan of the arranged marriage trope but opposites attract? I'M IN and this book delivered the tropes beautifully. 🤍 Watching two completely different people slowly understand each other instead of trying to change one another was easily one of my favourite parts🥹🫶🏼 The way their relationship is built slowly through conversations, trust, respect, teasing, and choosing each other despite all the obstacles standing in their way. 🫠💟

What surprised me the most was how thoughtfully the book explored deeper themes beneath its lighthearted romance. It talks about the pressure of carrying a family's legacy. 👑 The story also doesn't shy away from showing the patriarchal mindset and the constant judgment women face. There were moments that genuinely frustrated me because they reflected realities we still see around us. 🫩🫤

If you're looking for a romance that feels like a comfort Bollywood movie but also leaves you with something to think about, I'd definitely recommend this one. 💛 It has the perfect mix of laughs, emotions, family drama, and swoon-worthy moments. Safe to say, this one pleasantly surprised me. ✨

[Deepthi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A royal romance, a strong FMC, a North-South pairing, and a gossip blog that loves stirring up drama... You Can't Be Serious! had all the tropes for a fun & bingeable read. The story follows Aaditha, a successful businesswoman behind ‘Coffee Before Books & Bras’ whose life unexpectedly collides with that of Vedveer, a prince carrying the weight of royal responsibilities.

Aaditha's character is genuinely likeable and easily my favourite part of the book. She's ambitious, independent, has built a successful business, and isn't afraid to stand by her opinions. At the same time, she carries her own emotional baggage, which made her feel real and easy to root for. Vedveer, on the other hand, is charming, dutiful, and broody, but I wished we got to see more of his personality beyond those traits.

I really enjoyed the setting. The blend of royal traditions with the modern business world felt fresh, and the North-South dynamic added a distinctly Indian flavour without leaning into stereotypes. The addition of gossip blog throughout the story was fun & interesting. It reminded me of Gossip Girl and added just the right amount of chaos, & humour. The family dynamics, banter, and supporting characters also kept the story engaging. The writing is easy, breezy, and quick to get through, making it a perfect weekend read.

However, I felt the pacing is uneven at times. A lot of time is spent on the business and family conflicts, so the romance itself feels slightly sidelined. By the time Aaditha and Vedveer finally get the space to be together, their relationship wraps up a little too quickly. I would have loved a few more moments between them to make the emotional payoff even stronger.

[zara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished reading this, and I had to write a review right away because I absolutely loved it. I went into this expecting a cute romance, but what I got was a beautiful royal romance with a slow burn, a lovely South-meets-North story, and two characters I couldn't stop thinking about.

Aaditha is a successful café owner who has worked hard to build her own identity. Vedveer is a prince trying to save his family's legacy. When their worlds collide, they are forced to work together, leading to unexpected feelings.

From the very first chapter, I was hooked. I couldn't put this book down. Aaditha was such a refreshing FMC. She isn't someone who stays quiet or lets others decide things for her. She speaks her mind, stands up for herself, and never lets society stop her from chasing her dreams. I loved how ambitious, confident, and independent she was. She has easily become one of my favourite FMCs.

Now let's talk about Vedveer. My goodness, where do I even start? Vedveer isn't a green flag, he's the whole forest. 😭 The way he always cared for Aaditha, respected her opinions, supported her dreams, and treated her like an equal completely won me over. And when he was trying so hard to make up with her after she gave him the silent treatment? I was on my knees. 😭

What I loved most was their relationship. It never felt forced. They respected each other, communicated well, and slowly fell in love in the sweetest way. Their chemistry was amazing, but it was the trust and support between them that made me love them even more.

Overall, this was such a wholesome and heartwarming read. If you love royal romances, strong heroine, green flag hero, and slow burn, you should definitely give this one a chance. It completely stole my heart. 😩🥹