Amazon Rating: 4.5/5
Goodreads Rating: 4.5/5
Introduction:
In a world hungry for authentic stories that reflect diverse love and relationships, author Ashish Rastogi delivers a refreshing and heart-warming tale with his book, “The 5 Day Plan.” With its captivating narrative, endearing characters, and a generous sprinkle of humour, Rastogi takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster as two unlikely souls find themselves entangled in a delightful gay romantic comedy. Anchored by the lovable Akhil, an orthopaedic surgeon, and the charismatic Dan, a football star, this novel challenges stereotypes, celebrates love, and reminds us of the beauty in unexpected connections.
Unveiling the Characters:
Akhil Kumar, our first protagonist, is a brilliant and compassionate orthopaedic surgeon who excels at his job but is a sort of goofball out of the ER and has a penchant of being accident-prone. Living a solitary existence amid the hustle of London, he stumbles upon an opportunity that takes him out of his comfort zone. On the other hand, we meet Daniel Keely, our second protagonist, the dashing football star with an irresistible charm. Known for his athletic prowess, Dan has captured hearts on and off the field. But beneath his confident exterior lies a man yearning for more than just accolades.
Plot Overview:
The Five Day Plan kicks off when Akhil unexpectedly meets Dan, his secret crush, on a dating show. Things go well at first before an accident caused by Akhil sours things between them. A twist of fate brings the two together again and this time Akhil is determined to avoid Dan and thus comes up with the titular 5 Day Plan to keep Dan away. Life and destiny, however, have other plans for them as they keep bumping into each other, sometimes ceremonious and sometimes unceremoniously, until they realize that they are actually made for each other. But will that be their happily ever after or are there more twists, turns, misunderstandings, accidents waiting to happen?
Themes Explored:
Love and Acceptance: “The 5 Day Plan” beautifully explores the theme of love, acceptance, and the universal human longing to find someone who embraces us for who we truly are. Through Akhil and Dan’s journey, Rastogi challenges societal norms and highlights the importance of unconditional acceptance in fostering genuine connections.
Identity and Self-Expression: The book delves into the themes of identity and self-expression, inviting readers to embrace their authentic selves and confront the challenges that come with being who you are. Especially through Dan’s arc, Rastogi beautifully captures the essence of what it means to be gay and famous, while through Akhil’s story, a longing for acceptance from those closest to us is explored.
Humour and Light-heartedness: At its core, “The 5 Day Plan” is a romantic comedy that effortlessly blends moments of laughter with heartfelt emotions. Rastogi’s skillful writing infuses the narrative with delightful humour, ensuring that readers are entertained throughout their journey with Akhil and Dan.
Impact and Significance:
“The 5 Day Plan” holds immense significance in contemporary literature, particularly within the LGBTQ+ genre. By presenting a same-sex romance with authenticity and humor, Rastogi’s novel expands the representation of diverse relationships and promotes inclusivity. The book has the potential to resonate with readers from all walks of life, fostering understanding, empathy, and acceptance.
Conclusion:
“The 5 Day Plan” by Ashish Rastogi is a charming and uplifting gay romantic comedy that explores the joys, complexities, and triumphs of love. Through the endearing characters of Akhil and Dan, Rastogi invites readers on a transformative journey filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and a celebration of authenticity. This remarkable novel not only entertains but also challenges societal norms, offering a poignant reminder of the power of love in all its beautiful forms.