The Homecoming

by Preeti Shenoy

When the past unravels, is love enough to hold the future together?

To the world, Alka's life is picture-perfect---she lives a charmed existence in a beautiful heritage bungalow on her husband Subbu's coffee estate with their two lovely daughters. But when disaster strikes after Subbu's near-fatal accident, buried secrets begin to surface, ripping apart the veneer of perfection. Even as Alka struggles to care for her husband and revive the fortunes of the failing estate, she is faced with an agonizing fight for her strained marriage or give in to the long dormant love she feels for her brother-in-law, Krish.

Can Alka's marriage survive the weight of deception? Or will a forbidden love damage hearts and destroy lives?

A moving continuation of the story that began in Preeti Shenoy's bestselling novel A Place Called Home, The Homecoming draws readers into a deep exploration of love, betrayal, and the dangerous secrets we keep from ourselves and the world.

Genres: Fiction, Romance

293 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 28, 2024

About the author

Preeti Shenoy, one of India’s highest-selling authors with over a million books sold, has written seventeen bestselling titles. Known for her accessible style, she explores complex themes such as mental health, gender inequality, and socio-economic divides. Featured on Forbes’ list of influential Indian celebrities, Preeti has represented India at international literature festivals in Birmingham, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi.

Her work has been featured in major media outlets, including BBC World, Cosmopolitan, The Hindu, and The Times of India. She has received prestigious accolades, such as the Popular Choice Fiction Award (2021) from the Times of India’s AutHer Awards and Amazon India’s Most Popular Self-Help Book of 2021. She was also honoured as Indian of the Year and received the Business Excellence Award from the New Delhi Institute of Management.

Beyond writing, Preeti is a sought-after motivational speaker, having delivered talks at organizations like Walmart, Infosys, ISRO, KPMG, and Accenture. A fitness enthusiast, artist, and traveller, she has had her short stories and poetry featured in Condé Nast and Verve. She also writes a monthly opinion column for The Indian Express and has previously contributed to The Financial Chronicle.

Connect with Preeti:

Website: www.preetishenoy.com

Email: ps@preetishenoy.com

Twitter/X: @Preetishenoy

Blog: blog.preetishenoy.com

Instagram: @Preeti.Shenoy | @Preetishenoyart

Facebook: preeti.io/fb

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/preetishenoyauthor

Reviews

[♡ Diyasha ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

• The most anticipated book I have ever gotten was this one. I only needed to click once to begin and finish this book. Returning to the same book time and time again is gratifying. First of all, the cover is captivating, and I would love to appreciate the effort that went into it. I was initially enthralled with this cover; I am not sure about other readers. ☕

✦ “𝐖𝐞'𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐨 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐣𝐮𝐝𝐠𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐥𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐨𝐱𝐞𝐬. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬, 𝐰𝐞 𝐬𝐥𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐨𝐱𝐞𝐬 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐨 𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠.” ✦

• The story is so captivating that it is impossible to ignore it. It is similar to self-discovery. The perception research presented in this book is excellent in every way. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐮𝐧𝐯𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝. The characters' struggles with one another and with themselves are relatable and interconnected. ✨

• Following my reading of "𝐀 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞," I felt compelled to read the follow-up. Thus, 𝐀𝐥𝐤𝐚'𝐬 persona is offered as an inspiration in some way. She demonstrates her bravery when it is required. I believe that is where I start to fall for this character. Alka is mature enough to assume leadership. Above all, the characters save lives. ☀️

• The author uses her unique style to make the characters relevant. They are simply too cute. They are absolutely correct. These individuals are genuinely realistic. The story's small details give each character unique qualities. It is challenging to determine whether the story was woven by the characters or by the narrative itself. A true homecoming is what this book is.🥂

[Deepthi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I binge read this book in 2 settings. Addictive as hell !

After reading A Place Called Home, I was excited to read its sequel. Oh boy! It didn’t dissapoint and was definitely a page-turner. 

In “The Homecoming,” the story continues as Alka who has a seemingly perfect life on a coffee estate with her husband Subbu and her two children. But with the arrival of Krish, her long-lost love, and secrets about Subbu’s past, her perfect life shatters.

I loved Alka’s journey from being a homebody to managing the estate after Subbu’s accident. We get to see a different side of her. The exploration of complex and conflicting emotions of love, loyalty, and forgiveness is written beautifully through diverse characters. What I find beautiful is obviously Preeti’s writing. The way she writes the complex emotions with straight-to-the-heart quotable lines is amazing.

Overall, “The Homecoming” is an emotionally charged story delving into complex human emotions with well-developed characters. I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves to read on those themes.

[Tejaswini Rao · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first Preeti Shenoy book I read, and it was heartwarming. The story is about Alka, who has been shunned from taking responsibilities. When the tables turn suddenly, she is burdened with all the responsibilities and must tackle them one by one.

Since this book is part of a series, I was a bit worried that I might not understand it. However, after reading it, I realized that it could pass as a standalone too. Though, to get a better and deeper understanding of the characters, reading the first book is necessary.

Alka was not given the choice to take part in the running of her farm, but once the responsibility was on her shoulders, she took it up courageously. The characters in the book are lovely and supportive of Alka. There are many secrets spilled throughout the book that make you wonder a lot about the book and life itself.

Apart from that, there are also many life lessons to learn from this book. One of my favorites is this quote: ‘No one puts an expiry date on dreams. You can always fulfill them.’

Overall, it is a wonderful book that is loaded with life lessons and is a quick and good read!

[Debabrata Mishra · Rating 4 out of 5]

”The Homecoming” is the second part by Preeti Shenoy that is the direct continuation of her folk acclaimed book ”A Place Called Home”. This book is way more than just a continuation: it’s an emotionally charged exploration of relationships, choices, and the complexities of human emotions. She takes the readers on a rollercoaster ride of love, betrayal, forgiveness, and rediscovery, leaving them captivated from start to finish.

The story follows Alka, who seems to have a picture-perfect life with her husband Subbu. Subbu’s near-fatal accident serves as a catalyst, bringing buried secrets to the surface. Alka’s long-buried feelings for her brother-in-law, Krish, resurface, creating a tumultuous emotional journey.

The plot moved around themes of deception, loyalty, and forbidden love with striking realism. She crafts a narrative that is not just a tale of betrayal but an examination of the choices we make and their consequences. The slow revealing of secrets keeps the readers hooked up along with the emotional dilemmas that makes the story deeply relatable.

The fragility of relationships is explored through the revelations of Subbu’s past and Alka’s conflicted emotions. Alka’s determination to rebuild her life and save the estate is a testament to human strength. She handles this theme with nuance, ensuring it is neither melodramatic nor trivialized.

Her writing is evocative and immersive, bringing the lush coffee estate and its challenges to life. The descriptions of the estate’s serenity juxtaposed with the emotional turmoil of the characters create a compelling contrast. Her ability to capture raw emotions through quotable lines adds depth and relatability to the narrative.

She has beautifully presented love, guilty feeling, anger and hope all at once in this book.The combination of the family conflict, passion, and transformation continues to make the story interesting.

The book is well developed in almost all parameters; however, there are few factors where it is slightly weak such as the pace of the book is little slows down during some thoughts slicing passages, which a reader with high appetite for action may not prefer.
Some people may argue that the denouement might have been better to show a clear ending as there are too many loose ends.

In conclusion, it is a beautifully written book as well as coming of age story and resilience. It is an interesting book by the author with appealing style of language and detailed approach to characters’ portrayal. It is actually not the second part of the story but it is also an attempt to engage with what the human heart means and the actions that make us who we are. If you liked character-oriented stories and deep touching emotions this book is for you! It will make readers contemplate on factors of relationships and what it means to mend a broken bond masked by betrayals as well as the relevance of secrets.

[Rabhya · Rating 4 out of 5]

"We're too quick to judge people and slot them into boxes which we have made up on the basis of our perceptions. And our perceptions can be so wrong."

The Homecoming is a sequel to A Place Called Home. I personally have not read the first book, but It did not disconnect me from the characters. However, I would suggest reading the first book, to get a better understanding of the characters and their past. In this book, we follow Alka who is now married to Subbu and is living in a heritage bungalow with her two kids. Alka's character is complex as she sometimes lives this perfect life, but most of the time, she is just trying to fix her failed marriage with Subbu. There is a disconnection between the two characters and we see that through their conversations and actions. Alka is trying to find herself and through different characters in the book, we see her open up about the things she feels.

The author has a reflective writing style that makes the readers introspect and gets them thinking about life and the choices that we make. However, I often found myself disconnecting from the book, because the storyline felt a bit jumpy. I feel that before getting closure on a particular part in the book, the story jumped to something else, and hence I felt that the story was too rushed. After reading the end, I definitely feel there would be a third book. Overall, this is a good story about a woman trying to find her place in the society.

[Anuradha Sowmyanarayanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love helps to heal, Love guides to forgive, Love nurtures bonding, Love boosts strength, and Love brings in courage. All is possible in Love.

And at the same time, it’s time to remember the famous line; “ALL IS FAIR IN LOVE AND WAR”

The book is full of optimism, hope, and light leading to the end of the tunnel, which makes it worth holding in hand.

Life is a mixture of past, present, and future. We cannot escape from it. The impact and the influence on one another matters and the tangles it forms in the present are what makes life miserable.

THE HOME COMING is a familiar title and it is a well-known work by Rabindranath Tagore exploring the theme of abandonment and isolation through the character of Upen, depicting the emotional and cultural distance that can arise when one pursues personal growth and then returns to a once familiar place.

Here, see how Subbu returns home after a long time. The book THE HOME COMING by Preeti Shenoy explores the complexities of life, love, responsibilities, families, and business, thereby overcoming the same with proper understanding and handling the situation in the right sense with the support of near &dear.

This book is a sequel to the one – A PLACE CALLED HOME. The author is quite successful in handling the women characters Alka, Gowri, Chanda, &Manasi with strength, power, courage, bravery, talent, style, beauty, confidence, and grit.

The book confirms the hard work that goes into the work and maintenance of the coffee estate, the life of labour, and their struggle to serve us the coffee.

Crops in the estate like coffee and pepper and the complications during production, profit and loss in business, support groups working to save and preserve greenery. People involved in it and the migrant workers, their shelters and calamities they face, preserving heritage bungalows, turning them into homestays, and engaging with travel, and tourism sectors, food and hospitality, and health care in remote regions are all aptly dealt with in the book. The importance of Travel magazines, journalist, and blogger and their role in propagating a new venture also finds a place in the book.

The author covers immaculate details including art and interiors in houses, description of nature in coffee estates, and Children’s style of handling life.

Weak marriages, unfulfilled love, divorce, betrayal, extramarital affairs, and many secrets of one’s life and people around occupy the major part of this book making it engaging till the end.

All 29 chapters in the book have alluring titles and the writing style is crisp &emphatic and in many places succinct.

THE HOME COMING BY PREETI SHENOY is a powerful story dealing with the emotional state of women in their married life. How each woman shares their tough challenges, supports one another, and finds happiness by uplifting the other is very well formatted with required interconnectedness in their professional as well as personal lives.

The author is successful in leaving a marking impression on the characters in this book and readers will remember them for their bold steps taken in crucial junctures of their lives.

DO grab a copy of the book and groove.

[Siddhant Agarwal · Rating 5 out of 5]

While The Homecoming is a sequel to A Place Called Home, Preeti explores different yet important aspect of relationships in this book as compared to the first book. Through this book, Preeti brings to light the importance of love in our lives, and a pertinent question about marriage, social norms and the very definition of a life partner in the truest sense of the word. What I really liked about the book that the writing is simple, but at times makes you ponder upon our definitions of love and relationships. Throughout the book, we see various situations that question the traditional idea of partners and it is through these moments that the core idea of the book shines through. I loved the fact that there is no judgement in the book and it is the story of primarily four people who are stuck in this conventional mould that society expects them to conform to, but somehow, they break out of it. The secrets unfold slowly and as each layer opens, as a reader, even you are forced to think of what would you have done if you would have been either in the place of Alka or Subbu or Chanda. The way each page brings a completely different perspective to the events is something I have always admired in Preeti’s writing, and same thing happens here as well. The idea that a person central to the lives of these 3 people is struggling between life and death, and yet each of them must manage their own lives and its entanglement with each other was complicated, but adds to the charm of the storyline.

The conversations between the characters are wonderfully crafted and the dialogues sometimes raise pertinent questions, but then also highlight that there are somethings that cannot be looked at from a practical sense. Alka’s transformation across the book was a sight to behold and I was amazed at the depth of character development, so much so that even the minutest of details have not been spared. The conversations between Alka and Muthu especially were the highlight for me, specifically when Muthu’s perspective is shown. Krish as a character did impress me again and the way he succumbs to love towards the end was heartwarming. What was the highlight for me in this book, however, was Chanda and entire conversation that happens between her and Alka. The way in which her character is created is something I truly loved and the dynamics between her and Alka took the story for me in the second half.

I have always appreciated Preeti’s attention to detail in the stories she writes, and there is this scene when Muthu meets Subbu, and while saying anything more would reveal a lot, I was touched by the way it plays out. When you are engrossed in the book, that scene has the power to bring back memories of something you love from the deepest recesses of your heart, and it was then I realised that the title of the book made sense in more ways than one. For Alka, Subbu, Krish and Chanda, each of them found a way back to their home, and as always, home might not always be a place, but with the people who matters the most to us.

So, while there are themes of love, betrayal, forbidden love and deception in the book, there is an honesty to the love that exists between people, and it is to explore that raw emotion that I highly recommend this book.

[Kiranmayi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review on my blog:
https://blog.medhaapps.com/2025/01/bo...

After her past secret was revealed, Alka has decided to make peace with her husband Subbu and wanted to start their relationship fresh; Alka urged Subbu to communicate more openly with her. To rejuvenate from her daily household grind, Alka decided to visit a nearby homestay of Gowri. Gowri who was an acquaintance of Alka’s in-laws unintentionally revealed Subbu’s past which Alka was totally unaware of. Though Alka confronted Subbu, he would not answer her straight, thus creating more vacuum between them.

Soon Subbu was attacked by a rogue elephant, and he sustained serious injuries, including a head injury that pushed him into a coma. While Subbu was in a vegetative state after a major operation, Alka was faced with multiple challenges — the estate which was run by Subbu is in deep losses with multiple loans and interests eating into the revenue, her feelings for Krish have come back with a vengeance, and more secrets of Subbu are revealed which Alka never even dreamt of.

Faced with emotional and financial crisis, all suffocating her at the same time, will Alka be able to navigate these tough times alone? Will Subbu ever recover from an almost death situation after multiple surgeries?

Sequel to A Place Called Home, The Homecoming begins where the first part ended. Though there is no designated recap, the author makes sure to refer to events from the first part for the reader who is reading this one first. But I will personally recommend everyone to read the first part, as it is a wonderful book and will also help understand the characters better. While the first book dealt with Alka’s childhood struggles, college life and few tough choices she made as an adult, the second part is a full-blown account of how the choices made by Subbu, Krish and Alka came back to haunt them a decade later.

While the first part revolved mostly around Alka and Krish, the second one is about Subbu though he is sick and recovering for most of the book. The reasons behind Subbu’s relationship dynamic with Alka are revealed by the author in this book. The author handles multiple parallel threads deftly, with sensitive approach towards scenarios considered taboos in our society.

The coffee estate adds to the mood of the story, and the homestays are a bonus in this part, transporting the readers to the picturesque locales. While most twists are predictable, what keeps the reader engaged are the conflicts between the characters, the emotional turmoil, resilience and their moral compass.

I wish Krish had a more solid character graph in this part; though he is there from start to end, I felt his character could have been given more weightage as Alka overshadows him and he remains a secondary character. Even Chanda has more impact though her character is there only in the last 50 pages or so. Since the ending is not conclusive, I hope there is a third part where the entangled relationships from book two have a proper closure.

If you have read book one and liked it, it is a no brainer this should be a default read. Even otherwise, if you like reading stories about complex relationships, then this is a must read.

[Raj Bairwa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: The Homecoming
Author : Preeti Shenoy
Publisher: HarperCollins
category: Fiction
Year: 2024

I first encountered Preeti Shenoy's writing during a shadowed phase of my life, and her earlier novel, A Place Called Home, resonated with me profoundly. Alka's journey, laden with emotional turbulence, swept me away, reflecting the darkness I felt within. In anticipation of The Homecoming, I revisited the first book. The story, now familiar, revealed new depths and perspectives, setting the stage for me to dive into the sequel with eager readiness.

The Homecoming resumes Alka's narrative a few years after her pivotal decision to remain with Subbu. Her lingering, unresolved feelings for Krish simmer beneath the surface, creating an emotional quagmire. Despite Subbu's outward acceptance of her past, a certain restrained anger lingers between them, holding their relationship in an uneasy stasis. However, unforeseen events disrupt this fragile equilibrium, setting off a cascade of changes that complicate Alka's life further.

Once again, Shenoy’s nuanced storytelling left me in awe. Her prose is evocative and layered, offering profound insight into the human condition, even when it traverses uncomfortable or painful terrain. Alka, in particular, is masterfully written—her struggles, vulnerabilities, and growth feel authentic and deeply relatable. Shenoy crafts her character with such precision that readers cannot help but connect with her on an intimate level.

Admittedly, I harbored strong resentment towards Subbu initially. Yet, as the narrative unfolded, I began to discern the intricacies of his character and the rationale behind his actions. This shift in perspective was both refreshing and rewarding, a testament to Shenoy’s ability to create multidimensional characters and maintain an engaging pace that kept me turning the pages relentlessly.

The conclusion, however, caught me entirely off guard. Certain moments, such as Alka's jealousy towards Chanda, raised red flags, but by the final chapters, everything coalesced in a way that was both poignant and meaningful. The ending, though unexpected, provided a sense of closure while leaving me yearning for more. I fervently hope for a third installment to give this saga the resolution it so richly deserves.

Would I recommend this book? Absolutely—but I strongly suggest beginning with A Place Called Home to fully appreciate the depth and evolution of Alka’s story. Shenoy’s writing, as always, is a masterclass in exploring the complexities of relationships, emotions, and personal growth.

Verdict: A resounding "yes" for those who love stories that challenge the heart and mind.

- Bookgallivanter
(21 Dec. 2024)

[Susmita Ghosh Sau · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Views -The  Homecoming is the sequel of ' A Place Called Home '. Alka and her husband, Subbu has somehow come to terms with each other after the massive fight in the first book. They are again going on with their daily lives. Their daughters are also excelling in their respective studies. On one such occasion, when Alka has to take Tulika for an art competition in Bangalore, she decides to meet Krish is also lives in the same city after his divorce from Manasi. They are reminiscing their old days, Alka gets the news of Subbu's fatal accident and they immediately had to come back to estate to take Subbu back to Bangalore for better treatment. Now that Subbu is not in a position to handle the estate affairs, Alka has to take all the responsibilities on her shoulder while struggling to keep her emotions side.

Things are going hard for Alka as she has to manage the estate, her daughters as well as has to do back and forth trip to Bangalore to stay beside her husband and Krish. On one such trip, she gets to hear about some deep secrets of Subbu's life that are devastating for her.

How will she cope up with these new secrets that threats to end her marriage and these new feelings for Krish that has again resurfaced.

Read the book to know the rest of the story.

The second book picks up from the part where the first book ends. As we get to know about the near death accident of Subbu and how he is dwindling between life and death from the synopsis of the book itself, it is interesting to read about Alka's life from here on as she now has to manage a world she is totally unaccustomed with. We also get to know more about Krish, Manasi and how they came to help Alka when she absolutely needed it. We also get know about a few new people who has become like a family of Alka. Alka and Krish's life also gets entangled with each other while taking care of Subbu and they realised that their love had never ended. We also get to know about some heavy secrets of Subbu that he has kept secret for a very long time.

Overall, it's a perfect sequel with lots of engaging and interesting plot twists. If you have not read the first part, I will highly recommend you to read the first book before this one as it will create a base for the second book and you will get familiar with Alka, Subbu, Krish and Manasi.

[Fictionandme · Rating 4 out of 5]

Name : The Home Calling
Author : Preeti Shenoy
Genre : Contemporary

My 💭:
[15/12/24 7.45PM]

First of all, author please PLEASE tell me that there's another book coming up for Alka's story? Otherwise, I don't know how to be okay with this book's ending 😨!

I don't know how the author's writing manages to captivate me every single time!! And because I loved Alka's story in the first book, 'A Place Called Home', I became more curious about the story and devoured the pages. Sadly for me, this book somehow brought out a lot of repressed emotions that I had no idea of, and this resulted in a few meltdowns yesterday 😭. It's soo sad how we women don't even realise that we have been giving up our wants and desires one by one in the name of compromise and then suddenly, it all comes rushing back to you and the dam breaks. This is a brief of what happened to me yesterday. Finally I gained some composure today (watching a few episodes of Fleabag and Schitt's Creek also helped) and finally I could resume the story.

For most of the plot, I was completely boiling in fury at Subbu. I swear, Alka is a freaking angel, she has infinite patience and forgiveness in her. Her behavior and reaction towards Subbu baffled me from the start till the end of the book. I was very happy when in the final chapter she finally asked this exact question to herself and gave me my much needed answers. It is somewhat valid, I feel, to do things out of guilt and responsibility, rather than love. Love is what Chanda did for Subbu. I honestly felt it was VERY wrong of Subbu to keep both Alka, Chanda and himself unhappy because of his pigheadedness, frankly speaking.

And special mention goes to Alka for defining what women power is in this book 🙌! It was soo inspiring to read her character development.

I loved how mature Krish and Alka were in this story, omg! I don't know what I would have done in their situation. The twists in their story kept blowing my mind 😵‍💫! I really really hope to see more of them in a next book.

And lastly, after reading so much about coffee plantations, I sooo want a cup of coffee rn or to make a staycation trip at such a plantation homestay 🥹. Someone take me please!

[Harshita · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I wish to read stories with a lot of drama and complicated relationships, I always pick Preeti Shenoy's books.

'The Home Coming' is the author's latest book which is also the sequel to her previous book 'A Place Called Home'.

I still remember that when I finished reading the prequel, I always felt that the story wasn't over yet. When the author announced the sequel, I was really excited to see how Alka's life ultimately turned out to be. Now that I have finished reading the second book, I feel the same way again. I really hope there is part 3 coming in 2025.

The author's writing style and story building around Alka's life made me introspect about life and our choices (Assuming that it may be the right choice for us). The story revolves around Alka's life after getting married to Subbu. The circumstances in which these two got married complicated many things for Alka. While Alka is trying to sustain her marriage with Subbu, a tragic accident at the coffee estate changes everything, and the tables turn around for everyone.

Alka finally buckles up and puts her MBA degree to use. She now takes charge of everything Subbu used to do at the coffee estate, only to save this paradise from a dark future. Managing the family, navigating through her love for Krish, and steering the coffee estate business toward a new direction, doing all of it at once wasn't easy for Alka. The story beautifully shows that when someone decides to do something and is strong-willed to do it, there is no stopping them.

I could feel Alka's need to take a break when life felt exhaustive and overwhelming. I empathized with her when she was trying to manage everything like a one-woman army. It's also not easy not to judge someone. Like Alka, I, too, judged all the characters in the story, only to change my views about them after hearing their side of the story.

"We're too quick to judge people and slot them into boxes which we have made up on the basis of our perceptions. And our perceptions can be so wrong."

The story has left me wanting to know how things turned out between Alka, Krish, Subbu, and Chanda.

P.S. I suggest you read the first book before picking this up. It would help you better understand why things are the way they are.

[Sakshi Nair · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚The Homecoming

✍️Preeti Shenoy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you're looking for a story packed with emotions, family drama, and a whole lot of heart, The Homecoming by Preeti Shenoy delivers just that.
It’s a follow-up to A Place Called Home, but honestly, you can dive right into this one without feeling lost.
The book revolves around Alka, whose seemingly perfect life falls apart when her husband, Subbu, suffers a near-fatal accident. Suddenly, she’s juggling his care, managing their crumbling coffee estate, and confronting secrets that threaten to turn her world upside down. Oh, and did I mention there’s also a complicated love triangle with her brother-in-law, Krish? Drama much?
What I loved most is how relatable Alka’s journey feels. She starts as someone sidelined in her own life but grows into a strong, resilient woman. Her struggles are real, her emotions raw, and you can’t help but root for her as she navigates this whirlwind of responsibilities, guilt, and long-buried feelings.
The supporting characters bring their own chaos to the mix—Subbu, with his frustrating decisions, and Krish, who’s all calm and mature (seriously, we need more Krishes in fiction). The dynamic between them keeps you hooked, and the twists? Oh, they’ll have you flipping pages late into the night.
And let’s not forget the setting. The coffee plantation isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a whole vibe.
Shenoy’s descriptions make you want to pack your bags and book a stay at a homestay right in the middle of one. Coffee lovers, you’ve been warned.
Now, the book does get heavy at times.
It dives into themes like betrayal, guilt, and self-discovery, which might feel overwhelming. But Shenoy has this magical way of balancing all that intensity with moments of quiet beauty and hope.
In the end, The Homecoming is a beautifully messy, emotional ride. It’s about love, loss, and finding strength when life throws curveballs. If you enjoy stories about complex relationships and second chances, give this one a go. And if you’ve read the first book, you’ll love catching up with Alka’s story.
Definitely worth a read, especially with a cup of coffee in hand!

[Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book #97 of 2024
I finished reading The Homecoming in just two days, and even though it’s been over a week, I’m still reeling from the experience! This masterful tale is an emotional rollercoaster that had me hooked from the very first page.
Set against the serene backdrop of a coffee estate, the story beautifully intertwines themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience. Alka’s life takes a dramatic turn after her husband’s near-fatal accident, unearthing hidden truths and forcing her to confront her unresolved feelings for Krish.
I absolutely loved the characters! From Subbu to Chanda, Gowri, Gaurav, Nisha, and Tulika, each one is richly developed with remarkable depth. Alka’s journey, torn between her past and present, is raw, relatable, and deeply inspiring.
The narrative is immersive, with vivid descriptions that make every scene come alive. Shenoy’s attention to detail is so impeccable that I felt as if I were right there, walking through the coffee estate, sharing Alka’s highs and lows, and longing to sit beside her with a steaming cup of coffee.
What truly sets The Homecoming apart is the author’s ability to handle complex themes with sensitivity and nuance. The twists and unexpected revelations—like Subbu’s hidden past—add layers of depth to the story. While it’s not a mystery or thriller, the book is undeniably a page-turner that’s impossible to put down.
This poignant tale of human relationships delves into the cracks beneath seemingly perfect lives, leaving you reflecting on what truly makes a house a home.
Though The Homecoming can be enjoyed as a standalone, I would highly recommend reading the prequel first to fully appreciate the connections and story’s depth.
This is also one of those rare books that I found myself annotating so much—and this is coming from someone who doesn’t usually annotate at all! Every chapter seemed to hold a quote, a moment, or a scene that I wanted to remember and revisit.
From the stunning cover to the heartfelt story within, this book is a must read. If you love character-driven fiction, this book is for you. I can’t wait to see what Preeti Shenoy brings to us next!

[Prerna Shambhavee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine yourself standing in front of a beautiful, old mansion, its walls bearing the whispers of secrets and stories that have been hidden for years. As you push open the creaky door, a warm breeze carries the scent of freshly brewed coffee and the soft hum of conversation. Welcome to Alka's world, a world that seems perfect on the surface, but is actually a delicate web of love, lies, and secrets. In "The Homecoming", Preeti Shenoy masterfully weaves together the threads of Alka's life, creating a tapestry that is both beautiful and heartbreaking.

The story is a complex web of love, secrets, and lies. Alka's life seems perfect on the surface, but as the layers peel away, we see the cracks and fissures that threaten to destroy everything. I loved how Shenoy explores the intricacies of human relationships, the way a single secret can rip apart a family, and the way love can both heal and hurt.

What I admire most about Preeti Shenoy's writing is her ability to create characters that feel real, relatable, and flawed. Alka, Subbu, and Krish are not just characters on a page; they're people you can imagine meeting in real life, people with their own strengths and weaknesses. The author's portrayal of Alka's inner turmoil, her struggles to care for her husband and revive the fortunes of the failing estate, is particularly nuanced and moving.

As I read through the pages, I found myself wondering what I would do in Alka's shoes. Would I fight for my marriage, or would I give in to the forbidden love that's been simmering beneath the surface? The author raises important questions about love, loyalty, and the secrets we keep, and she doesn't offer easy answers. Instead, she invites us to reflect on our own values and priorities.

All-in-all, "The Homecoming" is a thought-provoking, emotionally charged novel that will resonate with anyone who's ever loved, lost, or struggled to find their place in the world.

[Tanushri · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Over the years, you let your gaurd down, you relax, thinking thecdemons have vanished. But thats exactly when they strike-when you least it."

So, here is a confession before this year ends: I am glad I found Preeti Shenoy's books this year because it gave me a much needed outlet for all my emotional thoughts and outbursts.

Some books are meant to be read and understood and re read again. But no matter how many times you read them, they'll teach you something different each time. This book is exactly like this. I have so many questions with life and this book (its first part too!) gave me a place to think and understand them.

Alka is satisfied with her life in coffee estate. For any outsider her life is perfect. But sometimes she wonders about her past. Though she tries to avoid it as much as she can. Then a disaster strikes and her husband, Subbu, is in hospital in coma. Thats when some buried pasts of her husband's life comes to face her and she doesn't know what to do. Should she give her 100 percent to this difficult relationship with her husband or should she leave everything and seek her long lost love?

This book is a second part in the series. The first was A place called home and I loved it. Infact, I was recommended it by one of my colleagues. The book gives some much needed food for thoughts and I already have so much to say!
Whats wrong in life and whats correct, it all depends on our own perspectives. We judge others and thier character, but in reality we dont even have a clue what they are going through.

The author has done a commendable job by handling the topic of relationships and affairs delicately. I could sympathize with Alka as well as Krish throughout the book. So if you are looking for some books based on marriages, Relationships and family, Or if you are going through something personal in life and want something or someone to share it with, i would definitely recommend this!

[bookswithkinkita · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Home Coming by Preeti Shenoy is a compelling sequel to A Place Called Home, diving deeper into the complex emotional landscape of Alka.
Her seemingly perfect life with her husband Subbu begins to unravel when Subbu suffers a devastating accident, leaving Alka grappling with the consequences.
Now, Alka has to manage their coffee estate single-handedly while caring for their daughters and attending to Subbu’s medical needs. The weight of her responsibilities is palpable, and during this tumultuous time, her world is further shaken by revelations about Subbu’s hidden secrets from the past. Simultaneously, feelings for her old love, Krish, begin to resurface, adding to the myriad emotions she must navigate.
Alka's journey is portrayed with remarkable sensitivity; the author skillfully illustrates her evolution from a woman overwhelmed by household duties into a resilient and empowered individual. The moments when Alka grapples with her conflicting duties as a wife and mother against the pull of her past love are particularly poignant, showcasing her emotional depth and vulnerability.
The author delicately balances profound themes of betrayal and guilt throughout the narrative. The story of supporting characters Manasi and Gowri further enriches the plot, illustrating the realization that sometimes, for the sake of one’s mental health, it is essential to step away from relationships that become suffocating. The narrative suggests that marriage should transcend mere security; it should also encompass understanding and a deep-seated bond that nurtures peace and happiness.
It is a beautifully crafted story that captures the complexities of love, sacrifice, and personal growth. I recommend reading the first book to fully grasp the intricacies of the characters and their journey. This sequel not only stands on its own but also enriches the reader’s understanding of Alka's transformation and the choices she faces.

[Ekta M · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is only when we seek the things that make our souls happy that we lead authentic lives.

#plot
Alka is living the idyllic life in Sakleshpur in a heritage bungalow in the middle of the lush 400-acre coffee estate which her husband Subbu owns. Subbu took care of the estate while Alka looked after her two daughters. Subbu never allowed Alka to share the burden of running the coffee estate. It was as if their roles were clearly defined. Alka's perfect life is toppled by Subbu’s near-fatal accident. Thereafter she takes the responsibility of running the coffee estate. In the chaos of his recovery, what she discovers about the coffee estate leaves her completely shocked. Not only this, but some of Subbu's secrets start to surface. On the other hand,with Krish helping her with his brother's hospitalization, it complicates things for Alka as old emotions start to surface.
Torn between her loyalty to her husband, the weight of past secrets, and her feelings for Krish, Alka must make really tough decisions.

#bookreview
Sequel to 'A place called home', The Homecoming is a tale of love, betrayal, self discovery, resilience, emotional conflict. It highlights the fragility of relationships and the complexity of human emotions. The situation of conflict over 'longing for love' and 'sticking to duty' is emphasized well. Apart from this, the 'reviving of coffee estate' angle adds another layer to the story which shows that Alka has found her true purpose. The coffee estate setting will surely make you want to take a vacation on a coffee estate. The author has presented the topic of martial infidelity with great care. All the characters sounded so true and their emotions are very well showcased.
The narrative is engaging and the story flows fast which makes it an unputdownable read. The ending will surely leave you wanting for more.
If you have read the first part you will love this continuation.

[a_geminireader · Rating 4 out of 5]

What is home for you? Is it a place, a feeling, or the people you hold dear?

The Homecoming by Preeti Shenoy was my first dive into her works, and it left me deeply moved. Though it’s a sequel to her bestselling A Place Called Home, the story stands strong on its own. It is a poignant exploration of love, sacrifice, and the secrets that can alter the very foundation of what we call “home.”

The story introduces Alka, a woman seemingly living an idyllic life on a serene coffee estate with her husband, Subbu, and their two daughters, Tulika and Nisha. Shenoy beautifully captures the innocence and wisdom in the girls’ conversations, adding warmth to the narrative. But as the plot unfolds, Alka’s life takes a dramatic turn. Denied the chance to contribute to the estate and confined to domesticity, she’s thrust into turmoil when Subbu survives a near-fatal accident.

As Alka fights to save the estate and support her family, hidden truths about her marriage come to light, forcing her to confront old feelings for Krish, a love she had long buried. Torn between her duty as a wife and mother and her yearning for something more, Alka’s journey is a testament to the choices women often face—and the sacrifices they make.

Shenoy’s storytelling is vivid and heartfelt, weaving themes of betrayal, resilience, and self-discovery. She peels back the layers of Alka’s seemingly perfect life, revealing the cracks underneath. What struck me most was the question the book leaves you with: when your life feels like it’s crumbling, can you rebuild it into something that feels like home again?

For my first Preeti Shenoy book, The Homecoming was an emotional and thought-provoking experience. It’s a story that lingers, making you reflect on your own relationships, choices, and the meaning of “home.”

[Harsh Tyagi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Preeti Shenoy has crafted a poignant tale that strikes a delicate balance between love, loss, and personal discovery in The Homecoming. The narrative carries over from her 2022 book "A Place Called Home" that I read back when it was released. From the very first pages, the protagonist's world felt familiar to me.

Alka's seemingly perfect life is filled with comfort, love, and family, all of which comes crashing down after Subbu’s accident. It feels almost like a slow-motion disaster, where we can see what’s coming but can’t stop it from unfolding. As she faces the tough decision of either fighting for her marriage or giving in to a forbidden love she had for her brother-in-law, I couldn’t help but feel torn along with her. The author does a remarkable job showing Alka’s internal struggle, making it clear that nothing in her life is as simple as it seems. Of course, no one is perfect and I especially appreciate how the author didn’t shy away from showing the complexities of relationships and the imperfections in both love and family. The tension between duty and desire, between holding on and letting go, is something that many readers, including myself, can relate to.

I felt the weight of each revelation, each choice Alka made. It was a bittersweet experience, and I found myself reflecting on the way we often carry burdens that we don’t share with the world. This book is not just a story about a woman caught between two loves, but also about the journey to finding peace within oneself.

Preeti Shenoy’s storytelling is a reminder that life is full of contradictions, and that sometimes, love can heal and hurt in equal measure. This book will make the readers think about the choices we make and the consequences they bring.

[Sindhu Vinod · Rating 4 out of 5]

“A place called Home”, still freshly lingers in my mind. And when I knew there is going to be a sequel, I couldn’t keep calm until the book, "The Homecoming" landed in my hands. It is a compelling continuation as she masterfully explores themes of love, betrayal, and the secrets we keep from ourselves and others. The story follows Alka, who has outwardly perfect life after her husband Subbu's near-fatal accident due to an elephant encounter. She now shoulders responsibilities of caring for her husband and their estate. She now is in a situation to make choices in life as b uried secrets come to light, Alka faces a heartbreaking choice between fighting for her strained marriage or giving in to her long-dormant feelings for her brother-in-law, Krish. Here you never really know what’s happening, but would want to continue to know what.

Shenoy's writing is evocative and deeply emotional, drawing readers into the complexities of Alka's journey. She makes it so relatable, as you travel alongside in the estate. The characters are well-developed, each carrying their own burdens and secrets, making the narrative both relatable and gripping. The novel dives into the intricacies of family dynamics and the lengths one might go to protect their loved ones. Self-discovery as I term it right would be the apt word to describe this journey what Alka decides to take.
Overall, "The Homecoming" is a poignant and thought-provoking read that will resonate with fans of contemporary fiction. Shenoy's ability to weave together a tale of love and deception makes this book a must-read for anyone who enjoys stories that explore the depths of human relationships. I really wish there is a part three in the planning.

[Priyadharsini Palani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: The Homecoming by Preeti Shenoy

Preeti Shenoy's The Homecoming, after A Place Called Home, is a story of emotional turbulence, beautiful forgiveness, and emotions to the brim. True to her style, this narrative of hers has caught me to be engrossed from the beginning till the end. In the language, the deeply relatable and poignant moment gives you an investment in every twist and turn.

The book opens with Alka, who is now happily married to Subbu and has two daughters, Nisha and Tulika. However, the undercurrent of unresolved tension between Alka and Krish, her past love, is still there. Life takes an unexpected turn when a life-altering event involving Subbu disrupts their world, forcing Alka and Krish to navigate their feelings amidst turmoil.

In the wake of tragedy, Alka takes on the responsibility of managing the estate—a challenge she has never faced before. Her transformation into a determined and capable woman is both inspiring and compelling. Meanwhile, long-hidden secrets start to emerge, complicating relationships and pushing the characters to confront their moral dilemmas. Shenoy skillfully delves into the complexities of human emotions, showing that life is never as simple as it seems.

The rich descriptions transport readers to the serene yet challenging estate life, immersing them in the setting and the emotional journey of the characters. Alka, portrayed as strong, intelligent, and resilient, shines throughout the story, making her a character to admire.

This is a must-read book, especially for those who enjoyed A Place Called Home. Shenoy's writing leaves a lasting impression, and I hope there's more to come in this series. Highly recommended!

[Swarnali Karar · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Over the years, you let your gaurd down, you relax, thinking the demons have vanished. But thats exactly when they strike-when you least expect it."

This book provides a simple and emotional story about love, hope, grief, relationships and secrets. The protagonist is Alka. Her life seems perfect as she lives on a beautiful coffee estate with her husband Subbu and their daughters. But everything changes when Subbu has a serious accident. While caring for him and managing the estate, Alka discovers secrets that test her love and marriage. Read the story to know what happens next.

The author has described the coffee estate so beautifully that I could feel actually being there. Not only that, the story also covers every small detail in and around a coffee estate so it's really informative.

The story is about how fragile relationships can be and how forgiveness can bring healing. It shows the ups and downs of life and love.

"We're too quick to judge people and slot them into boxes which we have made up on the basis of our perceptions. And our perceptions can be so wrong."

The writing style is simple and the characters like Alka, Tulika, Subbu, Krish, Chanda are well portrayed and relatable. Alka’s emotional struggles are written in a way that feels real and heartfelt.

The story is a continuation of Preety Shenoy's book, "A Place Called Home" and as I didn't read that I thought I'd face huge problems understanding the plot but I'm glad that I didn't that much but I'd recommend to read that book first.

Last but not the least, the cover is very vibrant and thus appealing. Harper Collins India books have very beautiful covers and this one is also not an exception.

[Dalia (book_o_creativity) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alka’s life seems idyllic, so it seems to the outside world, she resides in a beautiful heritage bungalow on her husband Subbu’s coffee estate, raising their two daughters. A quiet, happy family. However when Subbu suffers a near fatal accident, the carefully maintained facade of perfection begins to crack. As Alka struggles to care for her injured husband and save their failing estate, long hidden truths come to light, forcing her to confront an agonizing dilemma, should she fight for her marriage, already strained by deception, or give in to the rekindled feelings she harbors for her brother-in-law, Krish?

'The Homecoming' is a gripping continuation of the story that began in the first book in this duology, 'A Place Called Home'. Though I haven't read the first book, from the very beginning this story intrigued me. This story offered a deeply emotional exploration of love, betrayal, and buried secrets. The author masterfully weaves multiple themes and serves us in a plate as Alka navigates the weight of her choices. With evocative storytelling and emotionally charged moments, this book immersed me in the complexities of human relationships, making me question the cost of keeping secrets and the consequences of forbidden love.

Coming to the writing style, throughout the book the writing and and pace has been kept moderately paced that suited me well as it kept me engaged. To talk about the style, it is simple and cohesive. This book was a nice palate cleanser for me and I would recommend it to everyone looking for the same but do read the first book too. This was a poignant, thought provoking read for me. A perfect novel for those who enjoy emotionally layered family dramas with compelling characters and high stakes.

[Pavireads · Rating 4 out of 5]

"She loves him deeply."
"That she does. And he loves her too, very much so. All of us have married the wrong people."

Preeti Shenoy’s The Homecoming is an emotionally gripping tale that delves into the fragility of relationships, the weight of secrets, and the resilience of the human spirit. A sequel to A Place Called Home, this book explores themes of love, betrayal, family, and redemption.

The story follows Alka’s tumultuous journey as she navigates her husband’s recovery from a devastating accident and the struggles of managing a failing coffee estate. The plot thickens as hidden truths emerge, forcing Alka to confront her feelings for her brother-in-law, Krish. While their intimacy added a layer of tension, I found it bordering on the forbidden, which made me uncomfortable but added depth to the story.

The narrative is beautifully balanced, keeping readers invested in every character’s journey. Alka’s struggles feel deeply relatable, Subbu’s past introduces a gripping twist, and Krish brings romantic tension that’s both captivating and conflicting. Shenoy’s writing is evocative, drawing readers into raw emotional landscapes without ever feeling overly dramatic.

Ultimately, this book raises profound questions about love, loyalty, and forgiveness, leaving readers to ponder: When the past unravels, is love enough to hold the future together?

If you’re a fan of Shenoy’s work, The Homecoming is a must-read. It’s a thought-provoking, compelling novel that explores the boundaries of human emotions and relationships.


Highly recommended for those who love emotionally rich stories and nuanced characters.

[Deamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had read the first book in a dark period, and had completely gotten swept by Alka's emotions then. In preparation for this book, I reread it again. The story came back to life in a fresh new way with different perspectives that I was ready for this book at a moments notice.

This book continues on following Alka's story, a few years after the aftermath of her decision to stick with Subbu, but her complicated feelings towards Krish still nestle, as things are still at the same standstill on Subbu's end, as if even after his acceptance, he was still angry at her, then suddenly things change due to unfortunate circumstances which further complicate things.

I get blown away by Preeti Shenoy's nuanced writing every single time. She brings things to perspective even when it is difficult to process the hard ripples, and the way she wrote Alka was beautiful and real, that we connect to the story even more. Alka's character growth was stunning.

I do accept it, firsthand that I was really mad at Subbu, but then as the story progressed, I realised there was a reason for every single thing that brought in a refreshing perspective to the story and the pacing that I couldn't stop reading.

But I didn't expect that ending, and there were a few red flags which I was trying to make peace with, like Alka's jealousy towards Chanda, but the ending came and it made so much more sense. I would really like to grab the third book as I feel the story needs its proper finish, and I would love to read it.

Book Recommendation - Hell Yeah but do include reading A Place Called Home to start.

[Madhu Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Home Coming is the sequel to A Place Called Home. After Alka's past was revealed, she just wanted a happy life with her husband and her two daughters. Although Alka felt a gap between her and her husband, it always remained, and now the gap felt bigger and bigger. Sometimes, she wondered if it was because of her past or if Subbu was hiding something. But one day, misfortune struck, and Subbu got into a big accident. Alka's life took a turn, and she had to manage Subbu's coffee estate while many other secrets were revealed.

The author's writing is so captivating that it makes you sit down and finish the story. The story is told in the third person point of view and is fast-paced. This book has an open ending, which always makes me anxious. Whenever I remember this book, I think about the possible endings.

While reading this book, I had neutral feelings about the characters because I couldn't hate them or love them. I felt sympathy towards Alka and Chandra, but I also thought both were wrong in some places. For example, when Alka learns about Subbu, she thinks about many things, but at the same time, she does the same thing but calls it love. Alka blamed herself for Subbu's accident. I really thought about how human emotions work; whenever anything bad happens to us, we always search for a reason and judge and blame other people, even though we exhibit the same behavior. I don't know if I should say I found this funny or annoying, but I felt both when Alka felt jealous and hurt whenever Subbu couldn't remember her.
This book shows how humans and their emotions are complicated, and I really want the next part of this book because I want to know what happens next.

[bookswithsakshi · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a refreshing read that I enjoyed thoroughly till the end. The writing, as usual was inspiring and engaging. It kept me glued to the story and I can't wait to know what happens next in the story because we all love a good happy ending, don't we?

"The Homecoming" by Preeti Shenoy is a sequel to "A Place Called Home". I loved the first book as much as I enjoyed this one. The stories are interconnected, hence it is best to read the first book before reading this one.

This book kicks start from the time where Alka is happily settled with Subbu and their two daughters, Nisha and Tulika. Alka and Krish, lovers of the past are still hesitant with opening up about their feelings but fate has a different way of bringing people together, mostly at the wrong time.

A major incident concerning Subbu shakes Alka and Krish and in times of distress and grief, they must do what is right for all of them. Alka takes charge of the estate and runs it with extreme precision, something she has never done since the time she got married to an estate owner.

On the other hand, there are secrets that have been buried deep but they are slowly creeping out, making the lives of people difficult and complicated, for they must decide the right thing to do. But are humans that simple?

Like her other books, I loved it for its writing and the setting. The descriptions are rich and they make you immediately transit to the place where the story is taking place. I loved how smart and intelligent Alka is portrayed, I fell in love with her even more. I can't wait to read the next book, if there will be. Highly recommended.

[The Book Critiques · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Homecoming by Preeti Shenoy is a riveting continuation of the story from her previous novel, A Place Called Home. This sequel takes readers deeper into the complexities of love, betrayal, and the secrets that bind or break families.

The story follows Alka, who appears to have it all—a beautiful heritage home, two daughters, and a loving husband, Subbu. However, a tragic accident shatters her seemingly perfect life, bringing long-buried secrets to the surface. As Alka grapples with the crumbling façade of her marriage, the weight of managing a failing coffee estate, and the dormant feelings she harbors for her brother-in-law, Krish, the narrative captures her internal turmoil with remarkable sensitivity.

The book delves into themes of deception, loyalty, and forbidden love, highlighting the fragility of human relationships. Shenoy's writing remains vivid and evocative, capturing the lush backdrop of the coffee estate while unraveling the darker undertones of familial tension.

The plot is gripping, with buried secrets slowly coming to light, keeping the reader invested. However, the emotional depth and moral dilemmas truly stand out, making this more than just a tale of betrayal. Shenoy also brings to life the consequences of choices and the strength needed to move forward when the past resurfaces.

For readers who enjoy emotionally charged, character-driven stories with a touch of suspense, The Homecoming is a compelling read. It explores the nuances of relationships and the lengths people go to preserve or escape them.

[Yumna Gulvez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Preeti Shenoy's, 'The Home Coming' is a heart-warming exploration of love, deception and revival. Set against the backdrop of Sakleshpur, Alka finds peace as she ponders upon the realisation that she has been able to chase her inside demons. A lovely family of 4, Alka and her husband, Subbu share a magnificent companionship with their two daughters. While Alka practices home-making, Subbu looks after his tea estate. However, their perfect existence isn't destine to last for long. An elephant's attack at Shubbu eventually changes everything, the family has to undergo circumstances that not only transform their present household, but past's revelations and secrets.

Shenoy's writing is both engrossing and captivating. She weaves a tale that offers eternal warmth and comfort to the readers. Each incident glues an interesting and nail-biting essence that resonates for long. The characterisation and dialogues delivery are the striking features of this mesmerising tale. Being a tapestry of worthwhile emotions, Home Coming is a testament to familial bonds with a touch of past that envelopes both deception and forbidden love over the fresh chapters and new beginnings.

'Home Coming' reminds us that no matter, how far we reach, it's nearly improbable to chase our past in quest of new beginnings. Beneath the vibrant shade, there is always a sign of warmth that is comforting yet haunting.
Overall, Preeti Shenoy's sequel is a masterpiece delving into the intricacies of life; the one we reveal and the one we conceal!