THE PRICE OF CONVENIENCE: Why We Pay More, Think Less, and Live on Autopay

What if convenience is the most expensive thing we‘ve ever bought - and we didn‘t even notice? Every tap, every click, every "Subscribe Now" feels effortless - until the monthly charges, delivery fees, and upgrades start stacking up. In a world built on apps and instant gratification, have we quietly traded financial freedom for frictionless living? In this eye-opening and deeply researched book, freelance investigative journalist and policy researcher Subhash Malhotra exposes the hidden costs of our convenience-driven economy. Through the story of Sam, an ordinary professional caught in the web of subscriptions, startup services, and digital habits, the book reveals how modern companies have turned everyday life into a recurring transaction. From ride-hailing and food delivery to cloud storage and streaming platforms, this isn‘t innovation - it‘s inflation disguised as progress. Using real-world data, compelling storytelling, and sharp economic insight, Malhotra takes readers deep inside the system that‘s quietly reshaping our spending, attention, and autonomy. You‘ll discover: Why "free trials" and micro-subscriptions aren‘t really free How startups manipulate convenience to create dependency The psychology behind digital spending and consumer fatigue How invisible inflation is fueled by the convenience economy And most importantly - how to reclaim control over your choices and money For readers of Cal Newport, Morgan Housel, and Charles Duhigg, this book blends investigative depth with relatable storytelling. It‘s a wake-up call for every consumer who‘s ever wondered where their paycheck - and their peace of mind - really went. If you‘ve ever felt like you‘re paying more but owning less, this is your guide to seeing the system clearly - and taking your power back. Read it before your next subscription renewal.