Head Over Heels is a deeply evocative narrative poem that traces the emotional and spiritual awakening of Riya—a woman caught in the gilded cage of a high-society marriage in Montmartre, Paris. Though externally adorned with luxury and status, her inner world is unraveling under the weight of emotional neglect, control, and unspoken pain.

As Riya’s spirit dims, the universe conspires to send her Dev—a stranger whose presence ignites a powerful transformation within. Through his gentle love and unwavering companionship, Riya finds the courage to rediscover her voice, reclaim her worth, and rise from the ashes of her past like a phoenix.

Told through lyrical poetry, rich imagery, and impasto illustrations by the author herself, this book is a tribute to the healing power of love, the beauty of emotional authenticity, and the grace of personal evolution.

Head Over Heels is not just a love story—it’s a journey from suppression to self-expression, from longing to liberation. It invites every reader to believe in the alchemy of love and the magic of becoming whole again.

Q&A with the Author: Naina Asija

About “Head Over Heels”

Q1: What inspired you to write Head Over Heels?
A: The inspiration came from observing how women often lose themselves in relationships while trying to uphold societal and marital expectations. Through Riya’s journey, I wanted to give voice to emotional suppression, inner conflict, and ultimately, the power of love and self-realization.

Q2: Why did you choose narrative poetry as the format?
A: Poetry allowed me to convey raw emotions with intensity and grace. Each stanza captures Riya’s internal dialogue, transformation, and love story in a rhythm that connects deeply with the soul.

Q3: Is Riya’s story autobiographical or fictional?
A: While Riya is a fictional character, her emotional experiences are drawn from real-life stories—mine and many others I’ve encountered. The story is a blend of realism, personal truth, and creative interpretation.

Q4: What role does Dev play in Riya’s transformation?
A: Dev is more than just a romantic partner; he is a catalyst. His unconditional love awakens Riya’s self-worth and helps her rise like a phoenix from her emotional ashes. He represents the kind of conscious companionship every soul deserves.

Q5: What message do you hope readers take away from the book?
A: That love—when genuine—heals, empowers, and liberates. And that self-love and emotional authenticity are essential. I also hope readers reflect on the importance of respecting emotional boundaries in relationships.

Q6: What is the significance of the impasto illustrations?
A: The impasto technique adds texture and emotion to the visual representation of Riya’s journey. Each artwork is a visual echo of her emotional state and brings life to her moments beyond the words.

Q7: How do you interpret the title Head Over Heels?
A: It reflects not just Riya’s love for Dev, but also her complete immersion into her emotional journey—from heartbreak to healing. It’s about falling deeply, not just in love with another person, but with one’s own soul.

Q8: How do you see the societal commentary woven into the story?
A: The narrative critiques the rigid societal expectations placed on women, especially around marriage, loyalty, and self-expression. Riya questions these norms and reclaims her narrative.

Q9: If you could describe Riya in three words, what would they be?
A: Resilient. Reflective. Radiant.

Q10: What’s next for you as a writer and artist?
A: I’m continuing to explore spiritual and emotional themes through my writing. My upcoming projects include works that dive into sacred love, cultural heritage, and inner awakening—through prose, poetry, and visual art.