Vithika Agarwal’s debut novel, “The Third Party” breaks ground as being one of the torch-bearers that successfully shows the other side of life where characters are settled in their lives and careers, have grown-up children and yet, the notable aspect is the crisis and tough situations they face. These situations comprise both good and bad but as in their younger days, the difference maker is the choices that they make. Not only the protagonist Sara but also the people around her make these choices which form the heart of the novel. With her debut work, Vithika Agarwal provides a refreshing take on post-romantic narrative, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of relationships. “The Third Party” serves as a reminder that even after the “happily ever after,” life continues to present challenges that require effort, understanding, and compromise. By shedding light on these often-neglected aspects of relationships, Agarwal’s novel adds depth and realism to the portrayal of love and its aftermath, leaving readers with a lasting impact and a new perspective on the intricacies of human connections. Indeed, Vithika Agarwal demonstrates a remarkable level of maturity and skill in her handling of human relationships in “The Third Party.” One of the notable aspects of her writing is the recognition that relationships can evolve in unexpected ways, often deviating from our initial expectations or plans. Agarwal adeptly portrays the complex nature of human connections, acknowledging that the development of a relationship may not always align with what we envision.

The setting of the story in “The Third Party” is also one of the notable features. Setting it up in the bustling and dynamic city of Banglore where life is as fast as any metropolitan suggests that in the routine of life, people may not get the time to check upon their thoughts and the phases that they go through. The choice of setting in “The Third Party,” specifically in the bustling and dynamic city of Bangalore, adds another layer of significance to the narrative. By placing the story in a fast-paced metropolitan city, Vithika Agarwal effectively captures the essence of modern life, where individuals often find themselves caught up in the busyness and demands of their daily routines. The setting of Bangalore, with its vibrant atmosphere and rapid pace, serves as a backdrop that reflects the frenetic nature of contemporary urban life. In such a setting, Agarwal suggests that people may be so consumed by their daily obligations and external distractions that they neglect to introspect or take the time to reflect on their thoughts and emotions. This notion is reinforced by the idea that in the midst of the city’s bustling energy, individuals may inadvertently overlook the phases and changes they go through in their personal lives. By highlighting this aspect of the setting, Agarwal prompts readers to consider the importance of self-reflection and introspection in the midst of a hectic and fast-paced world. The setting serves as a reminder that amidst the chaos of daily life, it is crucial to pause and examine our thoughts, emotions, and the phases we undergo in our relationships. It encourages readers to carve out moments of introspection and self-care, acknowledging that personal growth and understanding require dedicated time and attention. Furthermore, the setting of Bangalore also adds richness and depth to the narrative by incorporating the city’s unique cultural and social aspects. The dynamic environment and diverse population of Bangalore contribute to the complexity of the characters’ experiences, offering a rich tapestry against which their stories unfold.

By portraying the characters in a realistic manner, Agarwal invites readers to connect with their own experiences and acknowledge that relationships can be fluid and subject to change. Through her storytelling, she encourages readers to embrace the uncertainties and complexities of relationships, emphasizing that growth and development can occur even when things don’t go according to plan. Agarwal’s approach fosters a sense of relatability and authenticity, allowing readers to see themselves and their own relationships reflected in the characters’ experiences. By highlighting the potential divergences and challenges that relationships face, she creates a space for readers to question their own assumptions and biases, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of the intricate nature of human connections.

In handling this delicate subject matter, Agarwal showcases her ability to navigate the complexities of relationships with grace and sensitivity. Her mature and skilful portrayal of the developments within relationships resonates with readers, reminding them that unexpected twists and turns can occur and that growth and acceptance are essential components of any healthy connection. In that sense, “The Third Party” has a distinguishable beauty of its own, which makes it a recommended reading for people not only in their middle ages but also younger people who may want to understand the mindset they may have in later years or the mindset of the people in their family.