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!

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

[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.

[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!

[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.

[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 🫶👑📚

[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.

[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. 🌸✨

[Anshul and Sanshia · 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!

[Rutuja · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was a mixed bag for me, but still an entertaining ride overall.

The premise instantly hooked me. A North-meets-South royal romance with café vibes, family drama, and a modern Indian setting sounded exactly like the kind of chaotic rom-com I usually devour. And to be fair, the book does deliver on the drama, humour, and larger-than-life situations.

There are definitely some fun moments. The setting feels lively, the concept is fresh, and you can tell the author wanted to create something bold, cinematic, and over the top in a classic rom-com way. A few scenes genuinely made me smile, and I appreciated seeing an ambitious, career-driven heroine at the centre of the story.

That said, the execution didn’t fully work for me.

At times the humour and dialogue felt a little too try-hard and exaggerated, which made some moments come off more cringe than charming. I also struggled to connect with the FMC. Her personality just didn’t click with me, and instead of rooting for her, I often found myself feeling frustrated. Because of that, the emotional connection never hit as deeply as I wanted it to.

Still, I can absolutely see this working for readers who enjoy loud, dramatic, slightly filmy rom-coms with big personalities and lots of chaos.

Overall, not a personal favourite, but a light, easy read with a fun concept. If you like over-the-top romance and culture-clash banter, this might be your thing.

[shreyareadss · Rating 4 out of 5]

You Can’t Be Serious by Prajwal Hegde is a vibrant, modern fairy tale that feels like a warm cup of coffee.

The story follows the arranged collision of two worlds: Vedveer Rathore, the poised Prince of Jaipur, and Aaditha Pratap, the fierce Bangalore-based CEO of India’s most iconic cafe chain. What starts as a marriage of convenience quickly evolves into a beautiful exploration of duty, identity, and unexpected attraction.

It highlights the contrast and beauty of both North and South Indian cultures, from the regal, desert-gold heritage of Jaipur to the bustling, caffeine pulse of Bangalore, making the settings feel like characters themselves.

The chemistry between Vedveer and Aaditha is truly electrifying, primarily because Aaditha is a powerhouse professional rather, someone who's a boss of her own choice is now exposed to the world of Ved, where the media keeps track of everything the royal does.

The writing is breezy, addictive, and genuinely funny, capturing the chaotic energy of Indian families of different cultures. And falling in love when you least expect to, especially with someone who's completely different from your world. It is about finding a partner, proving that the most traditional arrangements can lead to the most joyful, modern lives. It is a sparkling rom-com that celebrates the diversity of India and proves that, sometimes, North and South are simply better together.

[Saumya Vasdev · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens when a self-made café queen is forced to consider marrying a prince she absolutely doesn’t need… but maybe can’t ignore?

This book feels like Khoobsurat meets Gossip Girl with a soft, scandalous touch of Bridgerton.

Aaditha is the kind of girl who has built her life on her own terms. She’s ambitious, independent, and very clear that she doesn’t want to be known as someone’s daughter or wife. And honestly, that’s what makes her so easy to root for. She’s strong, but not unrealistically so. She has her moments of doubt, of vulnerability, of just trying to figure things out like the rest of us.

Then comes Vedveer. The prince you expect to be charming, but he turns out to be so much more. Yes, he has that royal aura, but he’s also carrying responsibility, pressure, and a need to protect what’s his. He’s thoughtful, stubborn, and quietly soft in ways that sneak up on you. Not perfect, just real enough to make you feel something.

And when these two meet, it’s not instant love. It’s tension. It’s disagreement. It’s two strong people trying not to bend, and maybe slowly realizing they don’t have to.

The story itself feels like gossip you shouldn’t be reading but can’t stop scrolling through. There’s drama, humor, and a little chaos, and it all just flows. You’re not here for a heavy plot. You’re here for the vibe, the characters, and that slow pull between two people who didn’t plan on falling for each other.

[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.

[Jennah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars because I enjoyed every moment with this book 💖

This is the story of Aaditha Prathap, the coffee queen and Vedveer Rathore Singh, the crown prince. Between the pink city, rich with tradition and the city of Bangalore, buzzling with energy and commotion, we are given an arranged marriage trope (YES I KNOWW 😭 how I love a good arranged marriage) with the best chemistry, Khoobsurat visuals (think of the movie, not the visuals. But yes, the visuals were also BEAUTIFUL), a green flag MMC with the embodiment of self-made woman FMC 🤌🏻

After reading a pretty scary book, this was meant to be a pallette cleanser for me. But this was much much more. I'll admit, I did get the book because of the cover 😁 and the vibes the cover gives off, the beauty, the royalty, the peace... everything is beautifully incorporated in the book.

Don't get me wrong though, this was not a sappy romance. There was some political drama, a slight education on women's rights, human rights (cuz a girl gotta life her life and can't be pinned down just because she got married. Duh!) and a lot of royal adornments.

Im not gonna bore you more. So if you're in the mood for a sweet romance, pick this up. You're gonna have a great time reading 💖

[Gracie Hazelnut · Rating 3 out of 5]

You Can't Be Serious- A Royal Affair by Prajwal Hegde is a fictional rom-com novel. I found this book quite adorable and amusing. It's a bit slow with a sprinkle of humour and independence.

Our FMC, Aaditha Prathap, is a beautiful, charming South Indian lady who's the mastermind behind India's one of the best cafe chains. She is a fierce and independent woman who loves her own company, and doesn't need a man to care for.

Our MMC, Vedveer Rathore Singh, is a North Indian charming prince who graduated from Harvard in the field of Engineering. He is respectfully handsome but doesn't want to get married either.

This book is a sweet and hilarious banter between a North and South Indian who are engaged in an arranged wedding by their families. They both plan to call off the marriage but slowly their heart fills with the throb of love for each other.

As two different regions meet, there are bound to be arguments and differences in their mindsets and this book is not entirely devoid of it. The language is simple yet sophisticated. Overall, I found this to be like a typical bollywood plot, but I loved reading it anyway. Readers who love slow burn, sweet banter rom-com can give it a try.

[Sowjanya Kashyap · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her third novel, You Can’t be Serious! Prajwal Hegde delivers yet again, crafting a story that is as entertaining as it is emotionally resonant. She deftly explores the nuances of a relationship between royalty and a commoner, weaving together humour, lightheartedness, and playful banter to create a quick, breezy read.

At the heart of the novel are two vividly drawn characters: Aditha Prathap, a Bangalore-based coffee entrepreneur with a grounded, modern outlook, and Ved Veer, a royal with a conscience. Through them, we are transported into two sharply contrasting worlds - urban, independent ambition on one hand, and tradition-bound royalty on the other.

What follows is a lively mélange of North–South cultural dynamics, filled with witty exchanges, charming misunderstandings, and dreamy romantic escapades. The narrative moves effortlessly between moments of flirtation and emotional depth, keeping the reader engaged throughout.

Ultimately, the story builds toward an emotionally charged ending that lingers beyond the final page. With its engaging characters and relatable conflicts, You Can’t Be Serious! makes for a delightful and satisfying read, perfect for anyone looking for romance with heart, humour, and a touch of cultural richness.

[Risha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this book a lot more than I expected I would and that was such a pleasant surprise.

There were so many things I loved about it, but the tittle-tattle sections especially stood out to me. They felt like an Indian version of Lady Whistledown from Bridgerton, and honestly, the whole book gave me those Indian Bridgerton vibes with drama, romance, secrets, and society gossip woven beautifully into the story.

I absolutely loved Aadhitha’s character. The way she stood her ground till the very end was something I genuinely admired. She wasn’t easily shaken, and her strength made her such a memorable female lead. And I have to give it to Ved….his confession? That moment melted Aadhitha… and honestly, it melted me a little too.

More than the story itself, I think it was the characters that left the biggest impression on me especially all the women in this book. Their sass, confidence, and individuality made the story so much more fun and engaging.

What also worked for me was the mix of humor, drama, romance, and social commentary. The writing felt lively and entertaining, and the pacing kept me interested throughout. It had that perfect “just one more chapter” energy.

A satisfying read for sure.

[Avya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Curious so-and-so,
A little birdie dropped me a book mail claiming a Royal Affair is awaiting! You Can’t Be Serious! by Prajwal Hegde is a perfect fusion of love, drama and emotions, just like a perfect blend of coffee beans, milk and water!
The tale waltzes around Aaditha Asha Prathap, owner of the trendiest self made café chain, COFFEE Before Books & Bras – her baby, her blooming business and Vedveer Rathore Singh, an eco-warrior prince of Jaipur determined to turn his land into organic fields. Tables turn when North meets South colliding two lives and their cultures forming a cute fluffy rom-com to fill your days and keep you on your toes giggling! They’re polar opposites, one that loves her double-shot bone-dry cappuccino and the other who loves his oolong tea – a perfect “when coffee person meets tea person” crossover!
I couldn’t put this beauty down! I was hooked from page one till the very end. I really admired how the book addressed patriarchy – subtle, not forced but still impactful! The Royal Affair charmed me up with its pixie dust leaving me in absolute awe! I devoured the beans spilled by Tittle Tattle, a Gupshup column giving Gossip Girl vibes!
If you love tea spilling sessions, this book is definitely for you!

[Kunal Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) A Refreshing Royal

Romance! I recently received a review copy of You Can't Be Serious! by Prajwal Hegde, and it was a truly delightful experience. The royal setting provided a grand backdrop to a story filled with charm, tension, and a fresh take on modern relationships. The Plot & Chemistry: What stood out most for me was the captivating atmosphere and the electric chemistry between the leads. The story begins with a classic "push and pull" dynamic where the characters are initially desperate to get away from one another. Watching that friction slowly transform into a deeper connection was incredibly engaging. The plot gains a layer of complexity with the involvement of Vedveer Rathore Singh and his dynamic with Aaditha Prathap. This tension keeps the reader hooked, making you wonder how this emotional tug-of-war will eventually resolve itself within the constraints of their royal world. Prajwal Hegde's writing is fluid, witty, and very well-paced. The scenes are structured beautifully, making it easy to visualize the regal setting and feel the weight of the characters' emotions. It is a light yet impactful read that is hard to put down. If you enjoy contemporary romances with a royal twist and characters who feel authentic despite their high- status lives, this book is a must-read.

[Shivangi Badgujar · Rating 5 out of 5]

You Can’t Be Serious! turned out to be such a comforting and heartwarming read. What begins as a royal arranged marriage between Aaditha, an ambitious café entrepreneur, and Vedveer, the Crown Prince of Jaipur, slowly evolves into a beautiful story of understanding, respect, and unexpected love.

Aaditha was such a refreshing female lead confident, independent, and not afraid to challenge royal expectations. I loved how she stayed true to herself even after entering the royal world. Vedveer, on the other hand, gives the sweetest soft prince energy. The way he quietly supports Aaditha and stands up for her in subtle ways made their relationship feel very genuine.

The slow-burn romance, playful banter, and little gestures between them made their chemistry really enjoyable to read. I also loved how the story beautifully blends North and South Indian cultures, from royal Jaipur vibes to Aaditha’s café world.

Along with the romance, the book also touches on societal expectations around marriage and the pressures women often face, which added a nice emotional layer to the story.

Overall, it’s a sweet, cozy, and feel-good royal rom-com that leaves you with a warm smile by the end.

[Kiranmayi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aaditha Asha Prathap known as the coffee queen for running the successful cafe chain Coffee before Books & Bras is the younger daughter of Prathap Gowda, Karnataka’s Finance minister. Her world turns upside down when her father received proposal from the Royal family of Rathores, to marry Aaditha to their son Vedveer Rathore Singh, and Prathap Gowda readily accepted the proposal.

Though Aaditha is convinced their worlds are light years apart, the families formally meet and instantly decide on the engagement. Vedveer is busy trying to revive the lands that have been lying barren since his grandfather’s time by proposing organic farming in these lands. While his father is happy to finance Vedveer’s organic farming initiative by leasing a portion of their royal palace, Vedveer has reservations about letting their property, even on lease.

While Aaditha struggles to follow the Royal protocols, and Vedveer suspects the Gowda family’s intentions behind the marriage alliance, the gossip column Tittle Tattle is busy shading this match, especially Aaditha’s fashion sense. Will Aaditha and Vedveer be able to break this match before their families proceed with the marriage, forms the rest of the story.

This is a North-meets-South, Royal-family-meets-Political-family story with protagonists who are totally contrasting personalities. Vedveer is the Harvard returned Prince who is known in the Page 3 circuits for his charm and the multiple women he reportedly dated, as per the gossip columns, while Aaditha had zero coverage in media or presence in social media, did not bother about being a fashionista, instead preferred to be a hands-on founder of her cafe chain. If anyone ever wondered how opposites attract, Aaditha and Vedveer are the best example to explore.

I liked the fact that the story while being a romance explores other aspects of the protagonists instead of only revolving around the sexual tension between them, which has become the norm in recent love stories. The narrative slowly builds on their chemistry, with each occasion, each event brings them a little closer — be it Holi celebrations at the palace, the polo match, Aaditha’s new cafe launch, Aaditha winning an award.

Aaditha is feisty without sounding arrogant, Vedveer is a true gentleman and not just an average rich brat or flirt. Their personalities and the details the author added make the narrative engaging. I loved how the author spins a modern-day love story that feels both relatable and thoroughly enjoyable. In the times of modern dating, this story revisits the concept of arranged marriages and how love bloomed slowly through a series of meaningful moments.

A sweet love story with strong and relatable characters, You Can’t be Serious is a must read for lovers of romance genre.

[Sree Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5

Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much from this book, and oh, how wrong I was.

You Can’t Be Serious by Prajwal Hegde is exactly what it promises. A royal affair. Of course, it’s a romance, but it also has every interesting element of royal drama. I think the blurb nailed it perfectly. Khoobsurat meets Gossip Girl, and the result is just amazing.

I found Aaditha’s character very relatable. Deep down, she is a common girl who wants to be her own person and refuses to be held back. So despite coming from an influential family, her struggles with keeping up with royal expectations felt very real. And Vedveer, though he is a prince, proved that even the prince can mess up.

The TittleTattle was very Gossip Girl coded. This blog literally controlled the narrative and added the perfect amount of entertainment to the story.

You Can’t Be Serious is a slow-burn romance, and after almost 300 pages, when you hit that confession, it truly felt like all the waiting was worth it.

If you are a fan of Gossip Girl and loved the movie Khoobsurat, then You Can’t Be Serious by Prajwal Hegde is the perfect royal romance for you.

[Shipra Rathi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a slow romance trope, but honestly, it feels very fast-paced, the kind of book you just can’t stop reading. Even when you know it’s going to be a happy ending, there’s still this constant feeling of “what’s going to happen next?”
It follows an arranged marriage storyline, and I genuinely loved every bit of it. What made it special for me was seeing how both characters, who were initially so against the idea of this marriage, slowly started noticing the smallest things about each other like their fragrance, their soft touches.
One of my favourite parts was when he says which goes like I say a prayer every time before saying her name. That line was just so beautiful and made me giggle.
At the beginning, the story might feel a little confusing, like you’re not fully understanding what’s going on. But once you get about one-third into the book, everything starts falling into place and that’s when you really begin to enjoy it.
Overall, I honestly loved this book. It’s warm, engaging, and one of those reads that you don’t want to put down.

[Bhavi Nagda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into this book wanting a light, tropey royal-meets-commoner romcom. What I got instead was a warm hug of a story that actually made me feel things.

𝘼𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙖 runs her own café empire - she’s sharp, driven, and refuses to shrink herself for anyone. 𝙑𝙚𝙙𝙫𝙚𝙚𝙧 a prince with the weight of legacy on his shoulders. They’re pushed into an arranged marriage neither signed up for. Cue the awkwardness, the eye-rolls, the we’re-not-doing-this energy.

But the magic is in the slow burn. No insta-love, no forced drama. Just two people learning to see each other. 𝘼𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙖 never loses her fire, which I loved. And 𝙑𝙚𝙙𝙫𝙚𝙚𝙧? He starts off stiff, but his quiet loyalty sneaks up on you. By the end, I was rooting hard for his soft, steady kind of love.

The North-meets-South cultural details were such a treat too - food, family dynamics, traditions. It made everything feel lived-in and cozy, not like set dressing.

If you want royal chaos with actual emotional depth, and a romance that earns every smile, pick this up. It’s comfort reading with substance.

[Bookishworld · Rating 4 out of 5]

A soft, comforting slow-burn with royal chaos

I picked up You Can't Be Serious expecting a fun arranged-marriage romcom, and it turned out to be much more heartfelt than I expected.

The story follows Aaditha, a self-made café chain owner, and Vedveer, a prince bound by duty and tradition, thrown into a marriage arrangement neither of them wants. What starts with resistance slowly grows into understanding, friendship, and love.

What I enjoyed most was the slow-burn romance, it felt natural and unforced. Aaditha was easily my favourite: strong, ambitious, and determined to hold on to her identity. Vedveer took time to grow on me, but his quiet care and steady presence really won me over.

I also loved the North and South Indian cultural representation and the warmth it added to the story.

The only reason this wasn’t a five-star read was because some parts in the middle felt a little slow, and I wanted better communication between them.

Overall, a warm and comforting romance that’s perfect for fans of arranged marriage and royal romance tropes.

[Aayushi Sharma · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a light, easy-going romance where two different cultures beautifully collide.
North meets South with two genuinely green-flag leads.

When I picked this up, I was really excited, and it started off promising. I appreciated how the story highlighted cultural nuances and traditions, and both characters came across as passionate and headstrong in their own ways.

However, despite trying to connect with the story, something just didn’t fully click for me. While there were friendly conversations and even moments of deeper dialogue, the emotional spark felt missing. The communication between the leads, which is so crucial in a romance, seemed lacking right from the start.

The ending, in particular, felt quite rushed. There was a sudden shift..from uncovering schemes and being upset with each other to meeting again after a month and confessing love. It felt abrupt and left me wanting more depth and buildup.

Overall, it’s a sweet read, not going to lie, but it didn’t quite deliver what I was hoping it would.

[Kanak Tiwari · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the Bollywood lovers who loved Khoobsurat for the chaos with royalty, this book is for you 🫶

This book is an arranged marriage set up story between Vedveer who is a North Indian prince born in royalty with etiquettes and Aaditha who is a businesswoman of her own brand born in the South Indian household of renowned politician.

Both of the characters are headstrong and chaotic, the way author has shown the differences in culture and customs between the North and South was quite beautiful, I loved reading the kannad dialogues and their meaning as a North Indian myself.

At one point I was even frustrated beyond repairs due to the lack of communication between them but at the end Vedveer really won mine and Aaditha's heart.

Lastly I just want to say, it was an amazing read and I really loved the writing style, one of my favorite scenes were the second meet and the holi scene. I literally felt soo good after finishing the book 🤌🫠
.

[Rysa · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)

You Can’t Be Serious by Prajwal Hegde is a light, easygoing royal romcom that blends arranged marriage with modern love in a way that feels familiar and comforting but not entirely unforgettable.

The story follows Aaditha Prathap, an ambitious entrepreneur running her own café chain, and Vedveer Rathore Singh, an eco-conscious crown prince tied to duty and tradition. Their marriage begins as an obligation, and the book focuses on how their relationship slowly evolves over time.

What works well here is the simplicity. The writing is breezy and easy to get through, making it a quick, relaxing read. The romance is soft rather than intense, built on mutual respect and quiet understanding instead of dramatic moments. Vedveer’s calm support and Aaditha’s strong, independent personality add a nice balance to their dynamic.

The book also touches on themes like societal pressure around marriage and expectations from women, which felt relatable and added some depth to the story.

However, the overall experience felt a bit surface level. While the story is pleasant, it doesn’t always leave a strong emotional impact. The chemistry between the characters is warm but not particularly memorable, and some parts especially their personal and professional struggles could have been explored in more depth. At times, it feels slightly repetitive and predictable.

In the end, it’s a comfort read that does what it promises nothing more, nothing less.

If you’re looking for something light, drama free, and easy to read with a royal romance backdrop, this could work for you. But if you want something deeply emotional or impactful, it might fall a little short.