I had such a great time with Comedic Timing. This story deftly explores heavy themes of grief, heteronormativity, and the ever-complicated situationship with a light touch that never detracts from their importance but doesn’t weigh it down either. Also, I am always impressed by how rich each character is with such little time to get to know them in every 831 novella. I feel like these are very real, relatable people who I’ve known before or even been myself at times. While Naina wasn't always particularly likeable, I fully understood her and was rooting for her the whole time.

831 Stories does it again!

I read this in one sitting (quite literally) and had a fun time doing so. Upasna Barath's ability to develop such fully fleshed out characters and having me genuinely caring about them in so few pages was incredible. While I disagreed with someone of the flawed choices said characters sometimes ended up making, I was honestly rooting for each and every one of them. This is heartwarming read not only about romance, but about friendship and grief and anxiety.

This book, like the two before it from
831 stories, is concise and packed with character. They are little bon bons in book form.

I really enjoyed the dynamic of the main characters, very compelling.

I have been loving the branding and messaging behind 831 Stories, bringing more adult modern romance to the lovers out there in novella sized fashion. The freedom from the cartoony covers alone in favour of the bright checkerboard is in itself a blessing. That being said, of the three 831 Stories out in the ether so far, <i>Big Fan</i> remains the only one that has truly rocked my world. I have already read it twice and know I will be reaching for it again in moments of need. It’s that good! Needless to say, yes I did catch the Mischief mention/<i>Big Fan</i> Easter egg in <I>Comedic Timing</i>. The problem with this though, is I found myself sad I wasn’t spending more time in that part of the 831 multiverse, and was instead in a considerably more effortful and clunky outing.

Don’t get me wrong, the central premise of <i>Comedic Timing</i> is great - I love the idea of a romantic lead wrestling with the notion of compulsive heteronormativity and getting introspective about her queer identity while developing feelings for a man. Unfortunately, a great idea does not a good novella make. I found the dialogue so awkward, like aliens learning to speak like human beings rather than real 20 or 30 somethings. *insert Steve Buscemi fellow kids meme here* Were multiple references to testing one’s drugs necessary? Why was “molly” capitalized? It was giving party safe PSA. The references to Euphoria, reality tv and that love bomber guy who went viral on TikTok last year also made this feel somewhat dated and sucked me out of the fantasy. Then there’s the development of the central relationship. The characters spend almost 3 weeks apart (with zero contact) in the span of the ~2 month period the story covers. What we’re left with, is the very beginning stages of a very complicated dynamic, rather than a story that feels particularly romantic. If this was advertised as a lit fic, I’d be all for it, but this is a romance and baby I was waiting for some sparks! I suspect that when this is officially released in January there will be a bonus chapter epilogue to dive into, but as readers we shouldn’t have to count on that! Cutting down a side character or two would have allowed more air time for the chemistry between Naina and David to unfold on the page.

All in all, there are some great ideas here, but the execution left me wanting.

Thank you to 831 Stories and Net Galley for providing me with this ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!

The characters flaws and imperfections are what made this story stand out for me. As someone who has moved across the country and dealt with relationship woes I felt that all of the characters in this novel were very relatable. Barath’s descriptions of the emotions of her characters brought me to feel everything with them. Whether it was grief, uncertainty, or joy I loved every second of this book. The descriptions of the relationships in the book are also so realistic compared to what is typically seen in a romance novel. I loved it!

Did not finish this novella, the intro was incredibly sudden and contained so many non-notable characters with generic breezy millennial personalities. I could tell from the jump that the type of humor explored in this comedic romance would be sub-par and unfortunate.

If you like stories about fresh starts, living in NYC, discovering your sexuality, having passion projects when you don’t love your day job, and novellas, this is absolutely the perfect book for you! One review I read said this was perfect for fans of Kate Goldbeck’s You, Again, and I absolutely agree.

Naina is an engaging main character, and Upasna Barath deftly drops the reader right into the heart of the story. I was impressed by the depth and storytelling that she managed in under 200 pages. Comedic Timing was messy and raw and an honor to read.

Thank you to NetGalley, author Upasna Barath, and 831 Stories for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!

I have to start this review off by saying I continue to be enthralled by what 831 Stories is doing! I have never really read novellas until reading theirs this year, and I have just become so enamored with how these authors are telling such complex stories in so few pages! Add to that the aesthetics and quality of mature romance stories, I do think that 831 Stories is changing the game. However, now having read all 3 current releases, I don't know if anything will quite live up to how genius their first release (Big Fan) was. I was so excited for a queer protagonist in Comedic Timing, and I do think that Barath had some great commentary on the complicated feelings of being bisexual. Naina read very authentic in her questioning of her own identity, and I appreciated seeing that representation in a modern romance novel. There were moments I really enjoyed too, especially seeing Christopher and Naina's friendship blossom and Naina and David's relationship grow. As a whole though, I found Naina a bit frustrating to read about. She came across as immature at times, being very combative and reactionary. This would have been okay as a source of conflict in the book, except that it happened multiple times over the course of a story less than 150. It got repetitive to read about, and although I know it's unrealistic to expect major character growth in such a short story, there was absolutely none to be found, leaving me a bit frustrated as a reader. I also don't think the writing always worked for me personally. I will continue to anxiously await anything 831 releases, but I do hope that their next installment finds a bit more of the magic of Big Fan.

Comedic Timing: A Modern Romance by Upasna Barat is another gem in the 831 Novellas collection that has solidified my love for these bite-sized, heartfelt romances. This novella masterfully balances humor, romance, and the relatable chaos of modern relationships.

Barat's writing shines in her ability to craft characters who feel genuine and easy to root for. The banter is witty, the chemistry between the leads crackles, and the story’s pacing hits all the right beats. It’s the kind of novella that feels like a rom-com playing out in your mind, complete with laugh-out-loud moments and swoony tension.

While the short format means the story wraps up a bit quickly, it still delivers a satisfying emotional punch.

I thought Upasna's debut was deliciously refreshing. 831 Stories specializes in romance for non-romance readers and I think the author's naturalistic, stream-of-conciousness-meets-vingette style writing is exactly that. Barath's lead is relatable, messy, charming, confused, and brand new. A love/hate dating in New York story, there's something in it for all 20-something, especially queer(!!) daters.

In Comedic Timing: A Modern Romance (831 Stories), the author brings a delightful blend of humor, heart, and romance through the eyes of Naina and David, the story's endearing and imperfect protagonists. This novel takes a fresh, unconventional approach to the rom-com genre by telling the tale of their relationship through 831 brief, comedic vignettes that unfold across a wider narrative. Together, these short chapters provide readers with a rich, engaging story that’s as funny as it is heartfelt.

Naina, a witty and ambitious woman in her late twenties, is navigating the chaos of modern life with an abundance of charm and a slight tendency toward awkwardness. Though she’s a successful professional in her field, she finds herself struggling with her romantic life. While her friends are busy falling in and out of love, Naina seems to always be at the wrong place at the wrong time—whether it’s a date that ends in disaster or a text message she accidentally sends to the wrong person. Her inner monologue is full of self-deprecating humor, and it's easy to root for her as she tries to make sense of her romantic misadventures. Naina’s journey is one of self-discovery, learning to embrace her quirks, and figuring out how to balance career, friendship, and the elusive dream of a perfect relationship.

David, the love interest, is equally charming but entirely different in temperament. He’s a laid-back, slightly cynical guy in his early thirties, who is constantly caught in the whirlwind of Naina's chaotic love life. David is witty and undeniably attractive, but he has his own emotional baggage—he’s been burned by past relationships and has little faith that true love is in the cards for him. Despite his skepticism, he’s drawn to Naina’s warmth and infectious spirit, even though their timing always seems to be off. Like Naina, David’s own growth is intricately tied to his interactions with her, as he learns to open up, take risks, and consider that love might come when he least expects it.

The charm of Comedic Timing* lies in how the authors explore Naina and David’s slow burn of a relationship, told through funny, touching, and often cringe-worthy moments that anyone who’s been in the dating scene will recognize. The 831 short stories each serve as a snapshot into a particular moment or event, capturing the essence of both characters in humorous, awkward, or even bittersweet situations. From a disastrous dinner date where Naina accidentally spills her drink on David, to a chance encounter at a bookstore that feels like fate, every interaction between Naina and David is both a comedy of errors and a moment of genuine connection. Their relationship unfolds not just through grand gestures but through the small, funny moments that make up a real, modern romance.

Despite the episodic nature of the book, which might seem fragmented to some, Naina and David’s relationship feels authentic and evolving. There’s a palpable chemistry between them that slowly builds as they move through the ups and downs of life. The humor never overshadows the emotional depth of their bond, as they both grow and change—Naina learning to be less self-critical and more open to love, and David discovering that his fears about love don’t have to define his future.

The writing is quick-paced and witty, with a perfect blend of comedic timing that mirrors the awkwardness of modern relationships. It’s clear that the author knows how to craft both humor and heartfelt moments. Each story might be short, but it’s precisely in this brevity that the book excels—each vignette feels like a snapshot into Naina and David’s world, allowing readers to experience their ups and downs without getting bogged down by unnecessary details.

While the sheer number of stories may seem overwhelming, those who enjoy a more episodic narrative will appreciate the way each vignette builds upon the last, offering tiny yet meaningful glimpses into the main characters’ lives. The book provides a satisfying balance of humor and sincerity, showing that love is a messy, unpredictable process, but it’s precisely these imperfections that make it worth pursuing.

In conclusion, Comedic Timing: A Modern Romance (831 Stories) is a hilarious, heartwarming, and ultimately hopeful journey into modern love. Naina and David’s evolving relationship is full of comedic moments, but it’s also deeply relatable, full of real emotions, growth, and the timeless idea that love often comes at the least expected moment. For fans of romantic comedies who enjoy a fresh, unconventional take on love, this book is an absolute joy.

Thanks NetGalley and 831 Stories for the ARC! After having mixed feelings on the last two installments from 831, I wasn't sure what to expect with Comedic Timing but I ended up enjoying this novella. Although this book was short, it packed a punch in under 150 pages and I didn't feel like anything was left hanging by the end. I liked how the author made both main characters feel very real, like this story could've happened to a friend or acquaintance. They were flawed and had made mistakes in their past that they were learning from, which made them feel more human than a typical rom-com hero. The romance is a bit of a slow burn that lets the reader get to know the characters and build tension before diving into their relationship. My only hang-up was the ending. The 11th hour drama that brought the characters back together after a miscommunication (no spoilers) seemed contrived, which knocked it down one star from me. Excited to read more from this author and the next installment from 831!

Another cute novella from 831 Stories! While I was not fan of the lead character Naina, (I found her to be a bit childish and insecure), the plot was relatable reminding me of the angst of moving to a new city, starting a new job and re-entering the dating world following a hard break up.

*Thank you to NetGalley and 831 Stories for the ARC*

I think there are certain books meant for certain people. This one didn't resonate with me as much, but I know that someone will connect with these characters.

Naina broke up with her girlfriend and moved out to New York. This is the year for her to be on her own. Unfortunately (or fortunately) one of the first people she meets in the city is David. She immediately feels something for David, although it takes her awhile to figure out what that feeling is.

Sexuality is a really sensitive topic to cover. I thought Barath did a fantastic job laying out Naina's confusion and apprehension. I don't think David could have been more perfect? He handled every situation with such grace. I rarely leave a story thinking I want to be like a character, but I really want to try to be more like David. He is now at the top of my book boyfriend list!

831 Stories is killing the game with these novellas! I will read anything they publish. Thanks to 831 Stories and NetGalley for the eARC!

I am so excited about what this company is doing for the landscape of romance and will read and support everything they do, but this is my least favorite of their releases. I do love how realistic and modern their stories seem to be, the language that is used and the world setting too.

After a recent breakup, Naina moves to New York, where she meets David—and their chemistry is undeniable. This fast-paced novella quickly draws readers in, making it easy to become invested in the characters and the evolution of their relationship.

What stands out about this book is its realistic portrayal of modern life. The language feels authentic, and the characters' lifestyles—like living in house shares—make the story highly relatable for contemporary readers. The natural, immediate flow of banter between the characters adds to the charm, making their interactions feel both genuine and engaging.

Fans of the publisher’s previous novel, Big Fan, will also appreciate the subtle Easter eggs sprinkled throughout.

I would have loved more detail about certain aspects of Naina’s life, such as her job, her writing or some of her friendships, which could have added a richer, more vivid layer to the story. This level of nuance was successfully achieved, for example, in the description of the dinner David prepared for Naina—bringing that same richness to other aspects of the story would have made it even more immersive.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone seeking a fun, engaging read that can be devoured in one sitting.

Comedic Timing is a pretty solid read if you’re in the mood for something funny but also a little introspective. It’s a light-hearted mix of humor and self-discovery.

The writing is witty and sharp, and the comedic moments really land. I found myself chuckling at some of the antics and the way the MC uses humor to cope with life’s messier moments. The pacing felt just right, and the humor never felt forced—it’s clear the author knows how to write a good punchline. The protagonist is likable, and you can’t help but root for him as he figures things out.

That said, while the story is enjoyable, it’s also a bit predictable. Some of the plot points and character arcs felt familiar, and I was hoping for a little more depth from some of the side characters.

In the end, Comedic Timing is a fun, easy read that also makes you think about how humor shapes our lives. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s definitely worth the read if you’re looking for something light but with a little more heart than your typical comedy.

Phenomenal story with two characters working through their own issues. David was so supportive of Naina, and I'm absolutely obsessed. Their romance is sweet with just a hint of spice. My only complaint is that it isn't long enough!

Thank you to the publisher for the e-arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

4 stars! Quick story that I quite enjoyed. The writing was immediately engaging and I simultaneously related to and was frustrated by the main character which I always kinda love... This story definitely shows that this author has some great potential because the characters themselves were really interesting to me despite the fact you only get to see so much of them within the span of the novella. This captured what I really enjoy about contemporary romance as a sub genre within romance as it felt like such a snapshot of what it is like to be vulnerable and date and generally just being a feeling human in this day and age.

Thank you, as always, to NetGalley and 831 Stories for the opportunity to read and review another quick yet thought-provoking romance. Upasna Barath’s Comedic Timing is a refreshing addition to the evolving world of short romances, blending heartfelt storytelling with a candid exploration of modern dating dynamics. I love what 831 Stories is doing with their releases, as they consistently provide stories that feel more grounded and relatable than traditional romances. In this novella, Barath balances humor and depth, creating a narrative that feels both lighthearted and introspective.

Naina and David are fascinating characters, each carrying their own complexities that make their relationship feel like a relationship between two real people, rather than two characters in a story. Their individual journeys and the dynamics of their connection keep the reader invested from start to finish. I did feel that the dialogue occasionally leaned toward a more formal tone that made it feel more like I was reading an essay or listening to a speech when the characters were speaking rather than the typical flow of conversation which threw me off a bit.

Overall, Comedic Timing is another strong entry from 831 Stories, and I look forward to seeing what they bring to the romance genre next.