Fool Me Twice- Nona Uppal

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Semester breaks are often meant for larger-than-life goals to hit another milestone in reading books which ultimately led me to this tear-jerker by Nona Uppal. A book stands out even more for a reader like me who is engulfed in the folds of the plot which leads to all-nighters, zero social media for 5-6 hours, and a sense of (forced) fulfillment at the end. 

Set in the familiar locations of New Delhi, three best friends, are about to enter a new phase of their lives and are in the midst of planning while also feeling nostalgic. Fears of the wider world, various what-ifs, and a promise to always stay in touch bind this trio to remain the best friends wherever they are. Sana and Ashish form their own coterie within this trio. Beloved by all and admired for the love they share, the couple seems to just know that they shall end up together, despite the long distance but also fearing the changes they shall now have to face. 

All goes well for Sana in the new world she has just entered until she is forced to face a tragedy that shall cause an upheaval in her otherwise smooth-sailing life. 

Nona Uppal manages to bring forth a book that is the biggest tool in the hands of a reader facing a slump. However, the story falls flat due to its plot and the similar undertones as Chetan Bhagat's works. While an author can only do so much with the romance trope, an exceptional writer can always take an extra step to make the sensibilities of their characters shine, which is not reflected in Fool Me Twice. The plot makes you cry and tickles the exact sensitivities that a reader employs while reading a romance novel, yet there is much more that Uppal can deliver with her writing. 

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