Too Good To Be True by Prajakta Koli

Too Good to Be True by Prajakta Koli (aka mostlysane) is a debut novel partly set in a cozy Mumbai bookstore. Not entirely, but key portions like the protagonists' first meet cute happen at Bombay Bound, where 23-year-old law student Avani Joshi works part-time. The store is owned by her best friend’s family

Too good to be true

One ordinary day at the billing counter, in walks Aman Raina a 31-year-old, brown eyed, suited up, wow-so-handsome CEO of a family owned business. Avani, of course, is intrigued. Over the next couple of weeks, she realizes he’s... well, too good to be true.

Now, you'd expect a "will-they-won’t-they" tension to build. But the plot is far too predictable for that. There are no surprises.

It’s too effortless to read. You don’t need to overthink. Some parts are goofy, others try to lean into rom-com vibes. Just when you think it’s about to get emotionally layered in the final chapters, it gets back to its light tone. The writing never quite commits to depth. That annoyed me in some parts.

Think: full on Bollywood plot specifically Karan Johar style. So coincidental events, characters who say things no one says in real life, and at a pace so fast you don’t have time to digest what’s happening.

I listened to some parts on Audible and I must say, Prajakta’s narration was fun and engaging. It definitely helped me finish the book. I just wish the emotional richness in the ending had been spread throughout the story. I get that it’s fiction, but a little realism never hurts. Also, it is very western coded. Like VERY.

Big question: Do I recommend it?

NO : If you're a seasoned reader. It’s predictable, too glossy, and lacks realism. Also, needs better editing.

YES : If you're new to reading, in a slump, or just starting out with romance. Super flowy. I finished it in two sittings.

This book works well for:

•Beginners

•Readers stuck in a slump

•Fans of easy, flowy romance