Circle with no centre – Today’s Indian Urban Story
Sometimes, a book finds you exactly when you need it most. It feels like a beautiful surprise, making you wonder, was this really my choice, or did fate step in? That’s exactly how I felt when I received a copy of Circle with No Centre in the bookmail. A big thank you to Blogchatter and Notion Press for sending me this review copy!
When I began reading, I didn’t know what to expect. But the story turned out to be incredibly relatable, and I was hooked almost instantly. I’ve been reading a lot of contemporary fiction set in Europe or the U.S., but Indian stories rarely caught my attention; until now. This book has finally ended my search for a compelling Indian urban narrative.
From the blurb
Is life a circle with no single center? It was a restless spin for him―from brief romances to a safe but hollow job to a quiet longing for genuine purpose. For her, it meant heartbreak, then fierce independence, and finally, a passion that lit her every step. Each believed they would keep circling alone.
But when their paths unexpectedly overlap, they discover a new space―an unplanned center neither saw coming. Within that gentle overlap, old fears soften, and dormant dreams spark to life. Yet real closeness challenges everything they thought they knew: how to protect themselves, how to trust.
Can two people, each rotating in a personal orbit of past mistakes and new ambitions, learn to revolve together without losing who they are?
Do we really have a common life, or it’s just overlapping part of our circles with no centre
This is a quintessential Indian urban tale of two individuals trapped behind emotional walls; shielded by the scars of failed relationships, unresolved grief, or the comfort of stable careers that merely pay the bills. While Gen Alpha navigates dating in an entirely new world, millennials in their 30s are facing a different set of challenges. This story strikes a thoughtful balance between the fast pace of modern life and the deep longing for stability and independence. Coming from a technology background, Deepak skillfully blends elements of modern science, technology, and ancient Indian philosophy to draw insightful parallels.
Just as we often say there’s a song for every emotion, Deepak laces the story with a playlist-worthy selection of songs that perfectly complement its emotional beats. The narrative flows with a compelling emotional rhythm; taking you through the highs and lows of life alongside the two protagonists. What stands out is not just the strength of the lead characters, but also the depth given to the supporting cast. Khurana delivers a solid punch with well-crafted character arcs, meaningful backstories, and a narrative structure that moves the story forward without sidelining anyone.
About the book
- Name of Book: Circle with No Centre
- Author: Deepak Khurana
- Publisher: Notion Press
- Publication year: 2025
- Pages: 310
- ISBN – 13: 979-8897247820
- Price: ₹ 359 (Paperback)
My ratings
Story: 4/5
Writing Style: 3.5/5
Cover Design: 2/5
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Should you read it?
Deepak Khurana masterfully weaves technology, philosophy, and science into this poignant story of second chances. This may not end up being your all time favorite, but will stay with you for sure.
If you want more book recommendations, click here.
This review is powered by the Blogchatter Book Review Program.
This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Mister Tikku.
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I absolutely loved how the story wove in flashes of philosophy, science, and tech—it’s so rare to see all that blended into an Indian city narrative so seamlessly. I kept picturing those two characters circling each other, trapped yet drawn in, and it reminded me of my own moments of connection in crowded metros. The line about “trapped behind emotional walls” hit hard—I’ve been there, unsure whether to push in or sit back. The take on how technology both connects and isolates is spot on; it’s like we’re more linked than ever yet lonelier too. I found myself pausing, thinking: what if we let our own walls down? The blend of heart and intellect in your storytelling makes me want to re-read it to catch all the hidden layers. Seriously, this piece makes me hopeful—hopeful that someone else can see the circles we run in and maybe step gently towards the void in the middle.
Looks like the personal experiences have pulled both of us into this story!!
It seems to be a book that can be read when you have nothing to do. I am not fond of books on city life, they are a tad bit boring. But still kept this book in mind for that one day when there’s a lot of time on hand.
The book takes us to Mussoorie as well!
And yet, you’ve given it a 3.5/5. The playlist bit definitely hit home for me because I love books with music as an integral part of the story. Just checked the book on Amazon and unfortunately it’s not on KU. Let’s see if I’m motivated enough to buy the book 😀
3.5 is not a bad rating! It’s still a first class… Average has gone down because of the cover 😋. I might not have picked this book just looking at the cover.
“Sometimes, a book finds you exactly when you need it most.” It is something I strongly believe in because at many times at my low point I picked up a book that not just resonated with me, but also helped me become better.
Your review really makes me want to read it,sounds so relatable and heartfelt. I’d probably rate it 4.5/5 from your review. Though I have to admit, the book cover doesn’t quite do justice to what seems like a beautiful story inside.
Yeah, the cover doesn’t give any context / do justice to nuggets of philosophy or pop-cultural references at all.
The story seems quite interesting and has strong leads. India’s background and perfect emotions make it my next read.
Circle with no centre seems to be a contemporary tale of the rigmarole of urban life. Your review did pique my interest, but I think I will let it pass. Only the music play list seems interesting to me as music is life itself.
Actually, it’s not about urban life as such. But yeah, there are the experiences we have as city dweller youth which are important part of the story. This one has a lot of references to the events of past 5-6 years. So the story feels really fresh and not feel being pulled from a distant memory.
Sometimes a book mirrors your own inner journey, and this one sounds like exactly that. Your review touched me deeply—I’m now eager to experience this blend of modern life and emotional depth. Thank you for sharing your beautiful reflection!
Indeed this was relatable at many levels, reflecting inner conflict, emotions and kind of tug-o-war!
This sounds like such a refreshing change from the usual! I love stories that explore real, urban emotions without being overly dramatic. Your review makes me curious to pick this one up especially the part about blending tech with philosophy.
Yes, this one has unique style. Do give it a try!
This sounds like the kind of book that lingers long after the last page. Love how it explores personal journeys and emotional depth—adding it to my list for sure!
This is definitely lingering in my mind after the last page!
The title had intrigued me but after reading the blurb I felt, this was not for me.Your review changes that to some extent , The intertwining of two very different individuals can throw in a lot of turmoil and interest.This concept is a but new for my generation where people wish to be in relationship while maintaining their identities. It would be interesting to see how well the author explores this.
The book sounds interesting. I have rarely seen a book that has a playlist. I don’t like listening to music while reading but looks like it works for a lot of people.
It’s not the playlist to listen to with the book. Many songs are referred to as the song playing in the background as a character turned on shuffle playlists at some point or the other in the story
Never heard about this book but your review has made me search for this book and read it. Thanks for sharing this with us.
The story has relatable characters, something on the lines of Life in a Metro. Although I wouldn’t connect to them, after reading a spare of murder mysteries this sounds like a simple romedy to cuddle up with.
No comedy angle in this… Romance, yes a bit, but even that’s not like the traditional romance novels!
Thanks for introducing us to this book through your review. Will surely check it out.
Deepak laces the story with a playlist-worthy selection of songs – This line reminds me of one of our fellow author cum blogger Manali’s book Heartstrings and Harmonies…Will definately give it a read.
The premise looks very promising will check this out
Title is very interesting. Your review has got me to a point that i wanted to get this book.
I really liked this book. Such a practical take on contemporary love and today’s situations. I am yet to write the review!
Loved reading your thoughts on this! I’ve been craving a good Indian urban story that feels real and relatable… and this sounds just like that. Your line about the book finding you when you need it most really stayed with me. Adding this to my reading list now. Thanks for sharing this gem so honestly.