A Fake Love. A True Mess. A Real Romance.
"The Real Disguise" is a hilarious and heartwarming contemporary romance by Manoranjan Ghoshal, perfect for fans of romantic comedies like The Love Hypothesis, To All the Boys I've Loved Before, and The Hating Game.
The story centers on Priyanka Roy, a meticulous event planner whose company teeters on the brink of financial ruin. Her last hope rests on securing a massive contract, but there's an impossible catch: the client demands she prove she has a "stable, settled love life." Desperate, Priyanka's best friend, Maya, suggests a radical solution: hire a fake boyfriend.
Enter Arnab Dutta, a free-spirited, somewhat chaotic artist facing his own financial woes. Though initially resistant to the ridiculous idea, Arnab reluctantly agrees to pose as Priyanka's perfect boyfriend for a fee. Their "business arrangement" begins with strict rules: no touching in private, forced smiles in public, and absolutely no falling in love.
Their initial fake dates are a comedic disaster, as their contrasting personalities clash at every turn. Priyanka finds Arnab's messy, artistic lifestyle frustrating, while Arnab sees Priyanka as a rigid corporate drone. Yet, through hilarious encounters-like an unexpected family dinner where Arnab improvises a charming fake love story, and awkward forced kisses in front of clients-the thin line between pretense and genuine affection begins to blur.
As the story progresses, Priyanka and Arnab slowly discover each other's vulnerabilities. Arnab witnesses Priyanka's hidden sensitivity, and Priyanka becomes drawn to Arnab's creative spirit. Their shared laughter begins to feel real, leading to moments of undeniable chemistry, unspoken longing, and even a touch of jealousy when exes reappear.
The climax hits when Arnab's former flame resurfaces and a rival event planner threatens to expose their fraudulent relationship. The truth about their fake romance erupts during a press event, jeopardizing Priyanka's career and sending Arnab reeling. In the aftermath of the public scandal, Arnab disappears, leaving Priyanka heartbroken and alone. However, an anonymously sent painting from Arnab-a heartfelt sketch of a shared moment-sparks a profound realization in Priyanka: her feelings were never fake.
Ultimately, Priyanka bravely confronts the truth in a powerful public speech about honesty, love, and second chances. Arnab returns during her speech, leading to an emotional public reconciliation. The book beautifully concludes with Priyanka and Arnab starting a new chapter together, launching a joint business that blends events and art. They navigate a real first date, gain family support, and find redemption in their true, authentic relationship. The story culminates in a romantic art gallery proposal, a wedding, and hints of a growing family, delivering the ultimate message: "Love doesn't need to be faked."
