PLOT: 4/5 CHARACTERS: 5/5 ENTERTAINMENT: 5/5 STEAM: 3/5 OVERALL: 4.5/5
We have all grown up reading romances set either in contemporary or historical settings in the US or UK, and because of this, our standards have always been set very high when it comes to reading desi romances that do not make us cringe and aren’t too Bollywood-like. I, for one, have always been on the lookout for one for a while, and thank God for “All That Sizzles.” It not only matches and delivers but will leave you with a big smile on your face.
The story of All That Sizzles (no spoilers!)
Tanvi Bedi is a successful wedding planner, and after excelling in her previous events, she now faces the challenge of orchestrating a 100-million-dollar wedding for a media heiress. However, there’s a catch: her client insists on having Delhi’s highly sought-after yet reclusive Chef Nik Shankar cater the event, no matter the cost. Despite Tanvi’s efforts, she has been unable to arrange a meeting with him.
Meanwhile, Nik Shankar finds himself estranged from his family, with his inheritance entangled in a legal dispute involving an absurd demand from his grandfather. In order to claim his ancestral property, Nik must be married – a predicament considering he doesn’t even have a girlfriend.
Thanks to Nik’s best friend, Ruk, Tanvi finds herself compelled to pretend to be Nik’s fiancée. In exchange, Nik agrees to cater the wedding, benefiting both parties. However, as they spend more time together, their passion and attraction deepen. Yet, they must confront their internal struggles and demons for their charade and fake relationship to evolve into something genuinely real.
My thoughts
There are some books that, once you start, you simply can’t put down until you reach the end, leaving you with a wide, satisfied smile on your face. And this book is one of them.
“All That Sizzles” fits that description perfectly. It’s your quintessential modern Desi Indian romance, leaving you not only emotionally satisfied but also hungry in the literal sense. You could even call it a Foodie Romcom; the modern twists on Desi recipes will leave you craving more.
As for the tropes, we have a fake relationship and forced proximity, where the characters must navigate pleasing Nick’s reclusive grandfather, who holds some sort of royalty at his ancestral home in Rajasthan. The setting feels fresh and authentic, adding depth to the story.
Nik and Tanvi are opposites; Nik is tall and soft-spoken, while Tanvi possesses a shorter and louder personality. However, their attraction and chemistry lead to some steamy scenes.
There’s nothing quite like a guy who falls first and is open about admitting his feelings, and that’s exactly who Nik is—an embodiment of what many women fantasize about.
What I particularly appreciated about this book was its LGBTQ representation on multiple levels, making it even more relevant and inclusive.
The supporting cast, whether it’s Tanvi’s best friends Risha and Nidhi (whose stories are featured in Sakshama’s previous two books), Tanvi’s older brothers with their banter and protectiveness, or Nik’s best friends Ruk and Abhi, all contribute to creating a perfect balance in the story.
The writing is flawless, and the story flows seamlessly. Additionally, references like GPS, VPS, and Albert Pinto add a layer of humour to Sakshama’s writing.
For a South Mumbaikar like myself, the reference from Tardeo to Breach Candy felt spot on and had me smirking.
I wouldn’t have minded if Tanvi’s past and her resolution were elaborated on even more.
So yes, my verdict is out. This Valentine’s Day, if you’re looking to read a Desi Indian Romance that is not at all cringe-worthy and checks all the boxes, pick this one up, and you won’t regret it!
Can’t wait to read it? Buy your copy of All That Sizzles right away!
