What do you think?
Rate this book
Lost
Lieutenant Rahul Jaishankar of the Indian Navy is a man of honour, principles and commitment. His love for his family, his ethics, and his integrity is only eclipsed by his love for his country. He has no time or space to love anything or anyone else. Until the day Ayaana Sahni explodes into his life. Suddenly, she’s all he can think of, all he can hope for, all he dreams of, awake or asleep…
But Ayaana isn’t a dream he can afford to have. She’s an illusion. Ayaana Sahni is actually Aarushi Mittal. And Aarushi Mittal wants only one thing…Vengeance. And no man, not even one as deliciously gorgeous as Lieutenant Rahul was going to get in her way.
An award winning, intrepid journalist, Aarushi spends most of her life abroad working on the kind of devastating stories that the world would never hear of if not for people like her. But it has come at the cost of her personal life, at the cost of time with family, and at the heartbreaking cost of her friend’s devastating tragedy.
Aarushi needs to atone for her negligence, she needs to right the wrongs done in her absence, and she needs to make the villain in her friend’s story pay. What she really needs to make that happen is a way into the tightly knit community of the Indian Navy and Lieutenant Rahul Jaishankar is it. And if that means there is some collateral damage along the way, then so be it. Even if the collateral being damaged makes her yearn for dreams that don’t exist. Surely, the Lieutenant would understand, wouldn’t he?
Aarushi isn’t built for love. She’s built to burn down the world for her loved ones instead. So what if this man makes her want things she’s never wanted? So what if this man makes her heart ache for something she’ll never have? So what if, suddenly, this man is all she wants?
Lost is a story of love, betrayal, honour, revenge, and everything in between. It’s also a love story that sets fire to the world they live in leaving them with no choice but to rise from the ashes anew…
But Ayaana isn’t a dream he can afford to have. She’s an illusion. Ayaana Sahni is actually Aarushi Mittal. And Aarushi Mittal wants only one thing…Vengeance. And no man, not even one as deliciously gorgeous as Lieutenant Rahul was going to get in her way.
An award winning, intrepid journalist, Aarushi spends most of her life abroad working on the kind of devastating stories that the world would never hear of if not for people like her. But it has come at the cost of her personal life, at the cost of time with family, and at the heartbreaking cost of her friend’s devastating tragedy.
Aarushi needs to atone for her negligence, she needs to right the wrongs done in her absence, and she needs to make the villain in her friend’s story pay. What she really needs to make that happen is a way into the tightly knit community of the Indian Navy and Lieutenant Rahul Jaishankar is it. And if that means there is some collateral damage along the way, then so be it. Even if the collateral being damaged makes her yearn for dreams that don’t exist. Surely, the Lieutenant would understand, wouldn’t he?
Aarushi isn’t built for love. She’s built to burn down the world for her loved ones instead. So what if this man makes her want things she’s never wanted? So what if this man makes her heart ache for something she’ll never have? So what if, suddenly, this man is all she wants?
Lost is a story of love, betrayal, honour, revenge, and everything in between. It’s also a love story that sets fire to the world they live in leaving them with no choice but to rise from the ashes anew…
243 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 17, 2023
56 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Shilpa Suraj
39 books121 followersShilpa Suraj wears many hats - corporate drone, homemaker, mother to a fabulous toddler and author.
An avid reader with an overactive imagination, Shilpa has weaved stories in her head since she was a child. Her previous stints at Google, in an ad agency and as an entrepreneur provide colour to her present day stories, both fiction and non-fiction.
An avid reader with an overactive imagination, Shilpa has weaved stories in her head since she was a child. Her previous stints at Google, in an ad agency and as an entrepreneur provide colour to her present day stories, both fiction and non-fiction.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
August 29, 2023
Lieutenant Rahul Jaishankar - who is investigating a fellow officer and friend on orders from his senior. Arushi Mittal - an award winning journalist who wants to dig out details about a dear friend's unfaithful husband... When these 2 meet, sparks fly and how... Both are on different paths, leading to the same man - Aman Rathore. Both have kept their missions a secret from each other
As always, a different background and a very interesting story by Shilpa. She's done a fab job of weaving their love story and bringing out their emotions amidst their secret missions to find out Amans truth. And Rahul Jaishankar is definitely the book boyfriend everyone wants😍
Almost at the end of the book, i wanted Nisha to have a HEA too and i m glad she's getting a story of her own next...Waiting to read book 3 of the In disgrace series soon ❤️❤️
As always, a different background and a very interesting story by Shilpa. She's done a fab job of weaving their love story and bringing out their emotions amidst their secret missions to find out Amans truth. And Rahul Jaishankar is definitely the book boyfriend everyone wants😍
Almost at the end of the book, i wanted Nisha to have a HEA too and i m glad she's getting a story of her own next...Waiting to read book 3 of the In disgrace series soon ❤️❤️
August 24, 2023
"Lost: A Forbidden Military Romance" by Shilpa Suraj delves into the complexities of love, honour, revenge, and the collision of personal and professional aspirations. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Navy, the story introduces Lieutenant Rahul Jaishankar, a man of unwavering principles, and Aarushi Mittal, an intrepid journalist driven by vengeance.
The narrative follows Rahul and Aarushi, two individuals bound by duty and personal battles. Rahul's commitment to his country and Aarushi's pursuit of justice lead them to a tumultuous connection. Their paths intertwine as Aarushi seeks a way into the Navy to right past wrongs, all while navigating the unexpected emotions she feels for Rahul. As their worlds collide, their desires and convictions are put to the test.
Shilpa Suraj employs a vivid and engaging writing style that breathes life into her characters and settings. The descriptions are evocative, immersing readers in both the world of the Navy and Aarushi's journalistic pursuits. The prose is well-paced, seamlessly blending action, emotion, and introspection.
Rahul and Aarushi are well-crafted characters, each carrying their own burdens and ambitions. The contrast between Rahul's sense of duty and Aarushi's quest for retribution creates a compelling dynamic. The book raises thought-provoking questions about sacrifice, loyalty, and the choices we make in pursuit of our goals.
The plot is intricately woven, merging the characters' personal journeys with a forbidden romance that simmers beneath the surface. Suraj deftly navigates the complexities of Aarushi's mission and the emotional turmoil it engenders, resulting in a captivating and unpredictable storyline.
"Lost" explores themes of sacrifice, vengeance, redemption, and the blurred lines between duty and desire. It highlights the clash between individual aspirations and societal expectations, as well as the power of love to challenge one's convictions.
The emotional depth of the characters lends authenticity to their experiences. The conflicting emotions that Rahul and Aarushi grapple with resonate with readers, evoking empathy and connection.
The strength of the novel lies in its rich character development and the seamless integration of romance and suspense. However, some readers may find the transitions between the characters' perspectives occasionally abrupt.
"Lost: A Forbidden Military Romance" is a compelling read that skillfully navigates the intricacies of love and vengeance against a backdrop of military honour. Suraj's writing draws readers into the emotional journey of the characters and keeps them invested throughout.
In "Lost," Shilpa Suraj has crafted a captivating tale that explores the interplay between love, duty, and retribution. With its well-defined characters, intricate plot, and emotionally charged narrative, the novel is a must-read for those seeking a blend of romance and suspense in a unique setting.
The narrative follows Rahul and Aarushi, two individuals bound by duty and personal battles. Rahul's commitment to his country and Aarushi's pursuit of justice lead them to a tumultuous connection. Their paths intertwine as Aarushi seeks a way into the Navy to right past wrongs, all while navigating the unexpected emotions she feels for Rahul. As their worlds collide, their desires and convictions are put to the test.
Shilpa Suraj employs a vivid and engaging writing style that breathes life into her characters and settings. The descriptions are evocative, immersing readers in both the world of the Navy and Aarushi's journalistic pursuits. The prose is well-paced, seamlessly blending action, emotion, and introspection.
Rahul and Aarushi are well-crafted characters, each carrying their own burdens and ambitions. The contrast between Rahul's sense of duty and Aarushi's quest for retribution creates a compelling dynamic. The book raises thought-provoking questions about sacrifice, loyalty, and the choices we make in pursuit of our goals.
The plot is intricately woven, merging the characters' personal journeys with a forbidden romance that simmers beneath the surface. Suraj deftly navigates the complexities of Aarushi's mission and the emotional turmoil it engenders, resulting in a captivating and unpredictable storyline.
"Lost" explores themes of sacrifice, vengeance, redemption, and the blurred lines between duty and desire. It highlights the clash between individual aspirations and societal expectations, as well as the power of love to challenge one's convictions.
The emotional depth of the characters lends authenticity to their experiences. The conflicting emotions that Rahul and Aarushi grapple with resonate with readers, evoking empathy and connection.
The strength of the novel lies in its rich character development and the seamless integration of romance and suspense. However, some readers may find the transitions between the characters' perspectives occasionally abrupt.
"Lost: A Forbidden Military Romance" is a compelling read that skillfully navigates the intricacies of love and vengeance against a backdrop of military honour. Suraj's writing draws readers into the emotional journey of the characters and keeps them invested throughout.
In "Lost," Shilpa Suraj has crafted a captivating tale that explores the interplay between love, duty, and retribution. With its well-defined characters, intricate plot, and emotionally charged narrative, the novel is a must-read for those seeking a blend of romance and suspense in a unique setting.
August 27, 2023
Aarushi Mittal is an award winning journalist who worked on finding coverage for the most devastating stories. Her past has made her a bit stubborn to accept any kind of compliments, but there’s one person who is making sure that she accepts compliments instead of any instant sarcasm as a defense, a person who has shown Aarushi the real meaning of self-acceptance, love, and honesty.
Lieutenant of the Indian Navy Rahul Jaishankar, a man who would go lengths to care for the knowns and the unknowns, a man whose principles, values and ethics, commitment towards and honesty reflect in his action. He too has a past which makes him stay away from love.
The two people running away from love cross paths only not realizing they are surrounded by people who have become an important part of their life but some are guilty, some innocent. While both the protagonists are trying to find the guilty, culprit ones, they do not realize they are competing against each other.
While they have been hiding it cleverly from each other, Aarushi is trying to play the villain to bring justice whereas Rahul has no clue it’s a trap. Aarushi has a full closure on Rahul’s life, work but he isn’t even aware that her name, profession are all fake, just undercover.
On one hand the reality, truths keep running in the background, the chemistry between this duo keeps flaring. They try hard to repulse but their force is too strong. But Aarushi isn’t built for love and Rahul cannot stop thinking about her.
What twists are going to hit this duo? Who is Aarushi helping? Will Rahul realize the collateral damage? What would be the repercussions?
To know more read this military romance suspense that is high on love, betrayal, revenge, heartbreaks and damages.
To start with my thoughts, first I’m happy, way too happy for this book to exceed my expectations. The author adapted the perfect knack of suspense and mystery. There was drama, romance, thrill and a storyline so fresh and exciting. The chemistry was just right, not overdone nor too less. It was just the right amount of tadka. The character development and growth was apt, right from them gazing at each other to falling in love. Their love story was developed beautifully. While the military background was an interesting plot, I loved to explore this world. The narration is promising not to let you get distracted even for a minute. Overall this book is a must read for suspense thrillers and romance readers.
Lieutenant of the Indian Navy Rahul Jaishankar, a man who would go lengths to care for the knowns and the unknowns, a man whose principles, values and ethics, commitment towards and honesty reflect in his action. He too has a past which makes him stay away from love.
The two people running away from love cross paths only not realizing they are surrounded by people who have become an important part of their life but some are guilty, some innocent. While both the protagonists are trying to find the guilty, culprit ones, they do not realize they are competing against each other.
While they have been hiding it cleverly from each other, Aarushi is trying to play the villain to bring justice whereas Rahul has no clue it’s a trap. Aarushi has a full closure on Rahul’s life, work but he isn’t even aware that her name, profession are all fake, just undercover.
On one hand the reality, truths keep running in the background, the chemistry between this duo keeps flaring. They try hard to repulse but their force is too strong. But Aarushi isn’t built for love and Rahul cannot stop thinking about her.
What twists are going to hit this duo? Who is Aarushi helping? Will Rahul realize the collateral damage? What would be the repercussions?
To know more read this military romance suspense that is high on love, betrayal, revenge, heartbreaks and damages.
To start with my thoughts, first I’m happy, way too happy for this book to exceed my expectations. The author adapted the perfect knack of suspense and mystery. There was drama, romance, thrill and a storyline so fresh and exciting. The chemistry was just right, not overdone nor too less. It was just the right amount of tadka. The character development and growth was apt, right from them gazing at each other to falling in love. Their love story was developed beautifully. While the military background was an interesting plot, I loved to explore this world. The narration is promising not to let you get distracted even for a minute. Overall this book is a must read for suspense thrillers and romance readers.
August 25, 2023
Rahul and Aarushi cross paths. Aarushi a journalist is on a mission to unearth and destroy her friend’s destroyer. “Hell Hath no fury like a woman scorned”. She’s up to prove this out and how. She meets Rahul as Ayaana and somewhere down the journey of investigation and information stealing, she starts falling for him.
Rahul Jaishankar is sensitive, broken Lieutenant who had his share of love and heartbreak. When he meets Ayaana (yes she is Ayaana for him) helps her out when she’s down unknowingly he too varily falls for her without knowing her identity.
So when the confrontation, clashes and final exposures of characters happen he’s baffled and hurt. Will he be able to come over his inhibitions and give love another chance? Read the book to find how.
Writing painful stories are tough. Shilpa excels in this. I feel love plus pain is a lethal combination and threading them together is challenging. I loved the way the story is woven keeping in mind the sensitivities of both the male and female leads.
To stand in the other gender’s shoes and feel the pain requires that amount of sensitivity and compassion, Kudos to Shilpa for being able to do that.
July 21, 2025
Sadly, the efforts that were put in the first book in this series were not put into this one. The characters were boring. The story was mildly interesting, tbh that’s what kept me going. The relationship between Rahul & Aarushi was not developed nicely. They barely knew each other, had no chemistry, no good banter or anything like a deep connection between them. It felt flat.
August 26, 2023
Superb story
What a brilliant story... I never expected it for her .
A perfect cliff hanger story..
I love Rahul Jaishankar .
He is poor innocent guy .
What a brilliant story... I never expected it for her .
A perfect cliff hanger story..
I love Rahul Jaishankar .
He is poor innocent guy .
September 8, 2023
A great read for Romance Lovers.
June 19, 2025
A thrilling page turner that leaves the readers on the edge of their seats right to the end
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews