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Contracted Together
Zavian Malhotra, CEO of Fate & Destiny has one goal in mind, don't lose the title. A certified workaholic, who only lives for his job, sees the world as black and white, and never misses a chance to make everything about work.His complete opposite is his now wife, Mona Malhotra. A Kindergarten teacher who sees the world in color and tries to make the best out of every situation. The extroverted person he was never looking for.Will two people who are polar opposites, contracted together for a year, make it to the end or call it quits before the year is over?
246 pages, Paperback
Published January 31, 2023
About the author
Jyoti Dhanota
14 books37 followersJyoti Dhanota, known professionally as Geet, is a self-published author renowned for her exploration of taboo subjects within South Asian communities. Recognizing a notable absence of Punjabi representation in literature, she embarked on a mission to rectify this disparity by featuring Punjabi protagonists in her works. With a total of 11 published books to her credit, Geet's literary contributions are readily accessible to readers worldwide through the Amazon platform. For further insights into her background and literary endeavors, interested individuals are encouraged to visit Geet's official website at Geetwrites.carrd.co.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 6, 2023
1. I was never expecting that surprise in the acknowledgements. I promote Geet's books because of the Punjabi representation. I'm not on her ARC team or anything. I saw an author that had Punjabi representation, went FINALLY and never looked back.
2. The actual review. 100/100. Not even 5/5 or 10/0, simply 100/100. I devoured this novel since it's only 233 pages & short chapters. What was there not to love about it?
Grumpy x Sunshine trope- love
She falls 1st/he falls harder- love
Marriage of Convince - love
Plus it's the 1st time seeing a kinder teacher as the FMC. I know there's profs usually like the love hypothesis and other books, but rarely elementary teacher so I loved that, plus a teacher opposite the MMC as CEO, never saw that either. Adored this novel. Would recommend it 3000%.
2. The actual review. 100/100. Not even 5/5 or 10/0, simply 100/100. I devoured this novel since it's only 233 pages & short chapters. What was there not to love about it?
Grumpy x Sunshine trope- love
She falls 1st/he falls harder- love
Marriage of Convince - love
Plus it's the 1st time seeing a kinder teacher as the FMC. I know there's profs usually like the love hypothesis and other books, but rarely elementary teacher so I loved that, plus a teacher opposite the MMC as CEO, never saw that either. Adored this novel. Would recommend it 3000%.
April 14, 2023
OMG this fabulous indie author has done it again! Contracted Together is such a great and easy read. I always love how the author includes Punjabi representation as it’s hard to find!!
As an K-1 educator, seeing the female main character is a kindergarten teacher truly made me smile the whole time. I saw so much of myself in Mona. She was so relatable and human to me, which is sometimes a challenge for me to really connect with a character. Mona and I instantly clicked!
Zavian!! I can’t say enough how good of a couple Zavian and Mona are. I think this is my favorite couple from this author!! I loved the beginning of the book and the fun banter between the two!
As an K-1 educator, seeing the female main character is a kindergarten teacher truly made me smile the whole time. I saw so much of myself in Mona. She was so relatable and human to me, which is sometimes a challenge for me to really connect with a character. Mona and I instantly clicked!
Zavian!! I can’t say enough how good of a couple Zavian and Mona are. I think this is my favorite couple from this author!! I loved the beginning of the book and the fun banter between the two!
April 21, 2024
Mona and Zavian are officially my favorite couple written by Jyoti. (Sorry Vihaan and Anaya). I love how in her books the secondary character's aren't just there but have a vital role to the story, like how Bree did towards the end when she told Zavian about the cookies. Loved that Mona had a "I refuse to get hurt" mindset after realizing what she did.
Love the combination of marriage of convince (prob spelled wrong) meets GrumpyxSunshine. Book is a fast and easy read.
Love the combination of marriage of convince (prob spelled wrong) meets GrumpyxSunshine. Book is a fast and easy read.
September 13, 2023
Contracted Together, a young adult romance novel, is a step (or two!) out of my usual range of reading; I encountered the novel via a Facebook group that runs regular reviews of independently published or self-published writing.
The novel revolves around a pair of ill-fated marriage partners. The term "lover" would be a stretch here, since Zavian and Mona's union is premised on a legal arrangement, a contract lasting for a year, during which Mona agrees to play Zavian's wife in public, with none of the private affection, sexual expectations, or even, friendship. This is a spin on the classic Hate to Love trope. Indeed, Zavian finds his bride -- in his words -- "annoying" even as he betrays a softness for those same characteristics. The pair's relationship -- strained though it already is -- is beset by a strange set of circumstances: estranged parents, exes, their own proclivities towards workaholism or romanticism, expectations of the other. I will leave it to the reader to discover the end results and what happens to Zavian and Mona.
Out of a total possible 5 stars, my overall rating is ⭐️⭐️⭐️
My review of Contracted Together is mixed; on one hand, given Dhanota's biography and stated intentions of the novel and their writing (as a whole), there is much I was left wanting. Yet, on the other hand, the novel has great promise and delivers on a number of other points.
The novel has been well-edited and is grammatically sound. Dhanota's writing is technically very good, and the language and vocabulary chosen is suitable for its stated audience. The novel's premise is also attractive. It opens with an immediate hook, framing Zavian's life and relationship to his family in an unusual light; the premise of a contract marriage is also a successful lure.
The novel possesses a great deal of promise. However, the substance of the novel does not deliver. The novel's detractions, in spite of the above positives, dulled the experience of reading it for me.
The novel, even as a Young Adult work of fiction, runs towards the superficial. Its main characters need deeper development. For example, Mona's requirements of Zavian are shallow, and her motivations behind agreeing to a contract are unclear, leaving the reader incapable of understanding what Mona hopes to gain from this connection. Moreover, the absence of her own family and their opinions on her decision to agree to this contract is a noticeable gap in the story's logic.
Some of this superficiality is conveyed to the reader through the characters' dialogues, which lack individuality. Zavian's narrative voice is too similar to Mona's. Their conversations also, lacked depth, sounding more like teenagers' casual conversation than that between two young adults (one being a CEO and the other a Kindergarten teacher). Zavian and Mona are petty in their arguments, their concerns betray a fundamental immaturity that readers may expect young adults to possess, or at least, be in the process of developing. The character's narratives lacked interiority, and a sense of the character's awareness of self. Ultimately, this surface-level characterization of Mona and Zavian failed to convey what was really happening in their hearts and minds, and dampened the romantic tension that would have made the hate-to-love trope here more successful.
Dhanota's intent (as stated in their biography at the end of the novel) is to bring Indian culture to the fore, to examine and challenge Indian practices and societal norms; however, the novel itself does not provide context or direct allusions to those norms and societal expectations. The novel would have benefited from an inclusion of these ideas and Indian culture, not as a separate section, but woven into the fabric of the novel itself. Such descriptions would also have added more texture and individuality to the novel as a whole, as a uniquely Indian romance.
The novel revolves around a pair of ill-fated marriage partners. The term "lover" would be a stretch here, since Zavian and Mona's union is premised on a legal arrangement, a contract lasting for a year, during which Mona agrees to play Zavian's wife in public, with none of the private affection, sexual expectations, or even, friendship. This is a spin on the classic Hate to Love trope. Indeed, Zavian finds his bride -- in his words -- "annoying" even as he betrays a softness for those same characteristics. The pair's relationship -- strained though it already is -- is beset by a strange set of circumstances: estranged parents, exes, their own proclivities towards workaholism or romanticism, expectations of the other. I will leave it to the reader to discover the end results and what happens to Zavian and Mona.
Out of a total possible 5 stars, my overall rating is ⭐️⭐️⭐️
My review of Contracted Together is mixed; on one hand, given Dhanota's biography and stated intentions of the novel and their writing (as a whole), there is much I was left wanting. Yet, on the other hand, the novel has great promise and delivers on a number of other points.
The novel has been well-edited and is grammatically sound. Dhanota's writing is technically very good, and the language and vocabulary chosen is suitable for its stated audience. The novel's premise is also attractive. It opens with an immediate hook, framing Zavian's life and relationship to his family in an unusual light; the premise of a contract marriage is also a successful lure.
The novel possesses a great deal of promise. However, the substance of the novel does not deliver. The novel's detractions, in spite of the above positives, dulled the experience of reading it for me.
The novel, even as a Young Adult work of fiction, runs towards the superficial. Its main characters need deeper development. For example, Mona's requirements of Zavian are shallow, and her motivations behind agreeing to a contract are unclear, leaving the reader incapable of understanding what Mona hopes to gain from this connection. Moreover, the absence of her own family and their opinions on her decision to agree to this contract is a noticeable gap in the story's logic.
Some of this superficiality is conveyed to the reader through the characters' dialogues, which lack individuality. Zavian's narrative voice is too similar to Mona's. Their conversations also, lacked depth, sounding more like teenagers' casual conversation than that between two young adults (one being a CEO and the other a Kindergarten teacher). Zavian and Mona are petty in their arguments, their concerns betray a fundamental immaturity that readers may expect young adults to possess, or at least, be in the process of developing. The character's narratives lacked interiority, and a sense of the character's awareness of self. Ultimately, this surface-level characterization of Mona and Zavian failed to convey what was really happening in their hearts and minds, and dampened the romantic tension that would have made the hate-to-love trope here more successful.
Dhanota's intent (as stated in their biography at the end of the novel) is to bring Indian culture to the fore, to examine and challenge Indian practices and societal norms; however, the novel itself does not provide context or direct allusions to those norms and societal expectations. The novel would have benefited from an inclusion of these ideas and Indian culture, not as a separate section, but woven into the fabric of the novel itself. Such descriptions would also have added more texture and individuality to the novel as a whole, as a uniquely Indian romance.
October 21, 2023
I received a free copy of this book via the BookLounge Facebook group for readers and authors, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I’ll start off by saying that my views on this book are very mixed. The storyline as a whole was really good, containing quite a few of my favourite tropes - forced proximity and grumpy/sunshine to name a couple (I would name more but don't want to spoil it!). I enjoyed Jyoti’s writing style, and think it was perfect for the plot and intended audience.
However, I do have a few complaints. There are numerous discrepancies in the storyline. For example, in Chapter 11 Mona says their bedrooms aren't too far apart, whilst in Chapter 12 Zavain says they share a room. There are also a few mistakes in the timeline. Whilst their marriage only lasts a year, somehow we see them get married, then it is December, then in the summer Zavian mentions a spring wedding. These mistakes did affect my enjoyment of the story as a whole, as I spent more time wondering where in the timeline each event was than anything else. Whilst the characters are developed quite well and do have interesting arcs, they aren't very believable. So many things happened, mostly fights, that I was very sceptical about and wouldn't believe it in real life.
Whilst I did enjoy the storyline, unfortunately, there were too many discrepancies and ultimately mistakes in the timeline and characters for me to enjoy this book as much as I thought I would. I did enjoy getting a glimpse into the Indian culture but would have liked a bit more depth personally.
At 246 pages, this took me just over 3 hours to read. I will try out other books by this author in the future. Thank you Jyoti for providing me with a copy.
5/10
I’ll start off by saying that my views on this book are very mixed. The storyline as a whole was really good, containing quite a few of my favourite tropes - forced proximity and grumpy/sunshine to name a couple (I would name more but don't want to spoil it!). I enjoyed Jyoti’s writing style, and think it was perfect for the plot and intended audience.
However, I do have a few complaints. There are numerous discrepancies in the storyline. For example, in Chapter 11 Mona says their bedrooms aren't too far apart, whilst in Chapter 12 Zavain says they share a room. There are also a few mistakes in the timeline. Whilst their marriage only lasts a year, somehow we see them get married, then it is December, then in the summer Zavian mentions a spring wedding. These mistakes did affect my enjoyment of the story as a whole, as I spent more time wondering where in the timeline each event was than anything else. Whilst the characters are developed quite well and do have interesting arcs, they aren't very believable. So many things happened, mostly fights, that I was very sceptical about and wouldn't believe it in real life.
Whilst I did enjoy the storyline, unfortunately, there were too many discrepancies and ultimately mistakes in the timeline and characters for me to enjoy this book as much as I thought I would. I did enjoy getting a glimpse into the Indian culture but would have liked a bit more depth personally.
At 246 pages, this took me just over 3 hours to read. I will try out other books by this author in the future. Thank you Jyoti for providing me with a copy.
5/10
May 16, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, finding it deeply relatable and engaging. As a former teacher, I particularly connected with Mona and appreciated the authenticity of her character. The love story between Zavain and Mona was beautifully crafted, capturing my attention from start to finish. This book was my introduction to the billionaire romance genre, and it has certainly piqued my interest in exploring more. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating romance. Additionally, I was delighted to see Punjabi representation, not only woven into the narrative but also reflected on the cover. It added a meaningful layer of diversity and authenticity to the story. 5/5
September 14, 2023
I definitely enjoyed this debut novel. I love learning about Indian culture and this story absolutely delivered and then some. The topic of arranged marriage was delicately delivered. Mona and Zavian were really well developed, and I found their relationship fascinating. It reminded me of some of my favorite Bollywood films but in book form!
May 13, 2023
Different read
Liked it but at times felt it was a bit too much drama
Overall good for a one time read
Liked it but at times felt it was a bit too much drama
Overall good for a one time read
May 19, 2023
Not for me
The center on main characters only and have many plot twists. But writing is good and simple, easily understandable with lightness.
The center on main characters only and have many plot twists. But writing is good and simple, easily understandable with lightness.
June 2, 2024
AMAZING BOOK
June 4, 2023
1. I was never expecting that surprise in the acknowledgements. I promote Geet's books because of the Punjabi representation. I'm not on her ARC team or anything. I saw an author that had Punjabi representation, went FINALLY and never looked back.
2. The actual review. 100/100. Not even 5/5 or 10/0, simply 100/100. I devoured this novel since it's only 233 pages & short chapters. What was there not to love about it?
Grumpy x Sunshine trope- love
She falls 1st/he falls harder- love
Marriage of Convince - love
Plus it's the 1st time seeing a kinder teacher as the FMC. I know there's profs usually like the love hypothesis and other books, but rarely elementary teacher so I loved that, plus a teacher opposite the MMC as CEO, never saw that either. Adored this novel. Would recommend it 3000%.
2. The actual review. 100/100. Not even 5/5 or 10/0, simply 100/100. I devoured this novel since it's only 233 pages & short chapters. What was there not to love about it?
Grumpy x Sunshine trope- love
She falls 1st/he falls harder- love
Marriage of Convince - love
Plus it's the 1st time seeing a kinder teacher as the FMC. I know there's profs usually like the love hypothesis and other books, but rarely elementary teacher so I loved that, plus a teacher opposite the MMC as CEO, never saw that either. Adored this novel. Would recommend it 3000%.
June 12, 2023
Mona and Zavian are officially my favorite couple written by Jyoti. (Sorry Vihaan and Anaya). I love how in her books the secondary character's aren't just there but have a vital role to the story, like how Bree did towards the end when she told Zavian about the cookies. Loved that Mona had a "I refuse to get hurt" mindset after realizing what she did.
Love the combination of marriage of convince (prob spelled wrong) meets GrumpyxSunshine. Book is a fast and easy read.
--- more reviews for this novel are somehow on the kindle version but since I saw this I just copied and pasted my review to the paperback version as well.
Love the combination of marriage of convince (prob spelled wrong) meets GrumpyxSunshine. Book is a fast and easy read.
--- more reviews for this novel are somehow on the kindle version but since I saw this I just copied and pasted my review to the paperback version as well.
April 19, 2023
I loved this book!! I couldn’t put it down. Although it’s about a couple I was still able to relate to the story and for that I was really happy for. I’m glad to have found it because through reading it I have learned that it’s hard for someone to change their lifestyle for love or because of a family issue. It was hard for me to grow up with only seeing my dad at dinners and on the weekends, but I’ve grown to appreciate all that he’s worked for and provided for me and my family. This book taught me that even if it’s a loved one there can always be more going on than meets the eye.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews