Leave and Come Back

by Lavanya Lakshmi

Family drama meets romantic comedy when a young woman’s new boyfriend accidentally shows up to a two-week-long family wedding, kicking off a comedy of errors in this funny, vibrant, and heartwarming debut

You’re invited to the most romantic, chaotic wedding of the season

For the first time, Simran Gopal is living out her own swoon-worthy romance to rival the beloved Bollywood films of her childhood... until she receives her cousin’s wedding invitation. Now, Simran finds herself returning to the family home she’s been avoiding for the last seven years to take part in a two-week long Indian wedding.

Family drama is already at a high when Leo Bridgers, Simran’s new boyfriend, accidentally crashes the engagement party. To avoid full crisis mode and provoking the ire of Veena perima, Simran’s aunt and judgmental family matriarch, the cousins need to rally. Operation DDLJ.

Following the lead of their favorite Bollywood movie, they need to trick Veena into adoring Leo. In a mess of misdirection and chaotic hijinks, Leo must prove himself to be the most charming, helpful wedding guest imaginable, and he certainly can’t give away that he’s ever met—let alone is currently in love with—Simran.

For Simran, being back with her family also brings memories of the difficult years after her parents died. As old grievances and new secrets arise—along with nosy aunties—will Simran be able to finally have her own love story, and find the closure she’s been looking for on her past?

Charming, tender, and hilarious, Leave and Come Back asks what it means to open up to love, what makes a family, and how to honor the past while embracing the present.

Genres: Romance, Adult, Contemporary, Fiction, Contemporary Romance

320 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication June 16, 2026

About the author

Lavanya Lakshmi is a third culture kid who has lived in nine cities across India, China, the US, and Canada. One of her many childhood homes was a suite on the 37th floor of a luxury hotel. Her claimed hometown is New York City, where she lived for nine years after getting her Master’s degree from NYU. She has worked in and around book publishing her whole career and currently resides in Toronto. Leave and Come Back is her first novel.

Reviews

[Mai H.]

Valentine's Day TBR

📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Pamela Dorman Books

[joni ౨ৎ - hiatus]

i fear i need this book right now !!!! the cover is sooo beautiful and i love messy brown families 😌

[Sara☽༊‧₊˚ (semi-hiatus)]

― JA SIMRAN JA JI LE APNI ZINDAGI (if yk yk)

[Lochi's Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanking Lavanya for sending me a digital copy. I met Lavanya earlier this year at an influencer event in Toronto. She was kind, welcoming, and calmed my nerves. I can’t believe I’m reading this (VERY EARLY) and I can't wait to see her shine next year basking in the celebrations for her debut, it's going to be the best treat.

My Review on Substack

Do yourself a favour and add it to your tbr list. Trust me, you won't regret it.

[carthi ♡]

messy indian family dynamics + wedding season + DDLJ vibes? oh bollywood is so back in books 🙂‍↕️✨ ⋆˙⟡ — 14/11/2025: ˙⊹

[Luv2TrvlLuvBks · Rating 4 out of 5]

#LeaveandComeBack #NetGalley

A well thought out plot showcasing the multiple elements celebrated in a Tamil wedding.

From the beginning, the author sets the tone with the wedding invitation prominently displayed. As a reader, unfamiliar with the customs and traditions featured in the book, this thoughtful addition did a wonderful job to set the stage. Given that each chapter acted as a countdown to the final event and reflected each part, the reader gets invested in the characters from the bride and groom, extended family, and, our main characters, Simran and Leo.

The title chosen by the author is an apt one mirroring both the physical and emotional journey Simran experiences. The hook of why Simran fled from the US to Toronto after being nestled in the warmth of her extended family's embrace is one that the reader is teased about. There's definite hints of betrayal, judgment, and sadness which the author draws out. The reader is rewarded at the end of the reasons why.

Liked that this was both Simran and Leo's story. The latter's relationship with his sister was strong and his voice was distinct from hers.

Felt what downgraded this from a five to four story read was the almost insta-love of Leo and Simran, despite knowing their connection thru her sister. More development on their romance while in Toronto would have certainly elevated this read.

This ARC was provided by the publisher, Viking Penguin | Pamela Dorman Books, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Marianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Leave and Come Back is a delightful tale about Simran, a woman of Indian descent, who falls in love with Leo, her Canadian boyfriend. When Simran returns to her estranged family’s home in New Jersey to attend a wedding, she and her cousins hatch a plan to ingratiate Leo into her family by taking inspiration from her favorite Bollywood movie. Scheming and high jinks ensue, bringing the cousins together once again.

The story was cute and the descriptions of the wedding, outfits, food and ceremonies were vividly described. The book was enjoyable, unfortunately, I just didn’t connect with it. I didn’t care for Simran and found her to be aloof and obstinate. I also really didn’t like her aunt and found it hard to believe that Leo would go to such lengths to curry favor with her. But, then again, I think it’s mostly just me unable to relate to the culture and family dynamics.

Thank you to NetGalley and Viking Penguin for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. 3.5 stars

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚Leave and Come Back
✍🏻Lavanya Lakshmi
Blurb:
Family drama meets romantic comedy when a young woman’s new boyfriend accidentally shows up to a two-week-long family wedding, kicking off a comedy of errors in this funny, vibrant, and heartwarming debut

You’re invited to the most romantic, chaotic wedding of the season

For the first time, Simran Gopal is living out her own swoon-worthy romance to rival the beloved Bollywood films of her childhood... until she receives her cousin’s wedding invitation. Now, Simran finds herself returning to the family home she’s been avoiding for the last seven years to take part in a two-week long Indian wedding.

Family drama is already at a high when Leo Bridgers, Simran’s new boyfriend, accidentally crashes the engagement party. To avoid full crisis mode and provoking the ire of Veena perima, Simran’s aunt and judgmental family matriarch, the cousins need to rally. Operation DDLJ.

Following the lead of their favorite Bollywood movie, they need to trick Veena into adoring Leo. In a mess of misdirection and chaotic hijinks, Leo must prove himself to be the most charming, helpful wedding guest imaginable, and he certainly can’t give away that he’s ever met—let alone is currently in love with—Simran.

For Simran, being back with her family also brings memories of the difficult years after her parents died. As old grievances and new secrets arise—along with nosy aunties—will Simran be able to finally have her own love story, and find the closure she’s been looking for on her past?

Charming, tender, and hilarious, Leave and Come Back asks what it means to open up to love, what makes a family, and how to honor the past while embracing the present.
My Thoughts:
Leave and Come Back is a grounded tale of love and loss and how familial bonds can both break and shape us. My Big Fat Greek Wedding, with the blend of humor and emotional storytelling around family, culture and the importance of acceptance. The characters are all really lovable, especially Leo, who is so sweet and supportive. From going on walks with Simran’s uncle to help him get in shape, to learning Hindi and Tamil, to attempting to make chai,Adorable romance aside, the relationships between friends and family are also fantastic. Leo and Rishi become pals almost immediately and their banter is just so fun. Simran and Kavitha are more like sisters than cousins. They go through a few rough patches and there’s some hurt on both sides stemming from Simran’s years-long absence, but they’re able to work things out. Kavitha eventually shares something personal with Simran that she’s mostly kept to herself, and Simran’s steadfast acceptance of her cousin is wonderful to see.
Overall, Leave and Come Back is an amazing book and a most impressive debut. I’ll be on the lookout for Lavanya Lakshmi’s work in the future!
Thanks NetGalley, Pamela Dorman Books and Author Lavanya Lakshmi for the advanced copy of "Leave and Come Back" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#PamelaDormanBooks
#LavanyaLakshmi
#LeaveandComeBack
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Sonal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simran lives in Toronto with her best friend, Liz. She's also head over heels for Liz's brother, Leo. She and Leo had been dancing around their feelings for each other for a long time, and now they're finally together. Simran hasn't felt so happy in a long time. When she recieves an invitation to her cousin's wedding, she has no plans to attend. She lived with her aunt, uncle, and cousins (the Iyers) for several years after the death of her parents. Seven years ago, she left their home, tired of clashing with her judgmental aunt, Veena. Although she deeply missed her cousin, Kavitha, the thought of going back is too difficult. When Kavitha calls, demanding she come, Simran has a hard time saying no.
Kavitha was her saving grace after her parents' death. They were practically inseparable and shared a love for Bollywood movies, one in particular (DDLJ). This is her chance to finally make amends with Kavitha and hopefully convince Veena to give her the keys to her parents home in India.
When Leo unexpectedly shows up at the Iyer house, Simran is shocked. Her aunt cannot find out she is with a non-Indian guy. Instead of letting him leave, her cousin's device a plan, based on their favorite film, to help Leo win over the family, especially Veena.
I wasn't sure I was going to like this book, I'm not usually a fan of retellings of stories. I do love Bollywood though, and DDLJ is a classic from childhood. I'm so glad I gave the story a chance! While the premise of bringing Leo into the family is based on DDLJ, the story is pretty different. The chaos and drama of an Indian wedding, mixed with past grievances, generational conflicts, and long withheld emotions was so well done!
There were definitely parts that were a bit "extra" but that's pretty much a Bollywood movie! Although, this book dealt with some deeper feelings and relationship dynamics.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by this author!
Thank you to Netgalley and Viking Penguin for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, I loved this. Leave and Come Back isn’t the type of book I usually read but I’m so glad I did. It’s not just a rom com, but a touching, heartfelt story about family and culture. I can totally see it being adapted into a film.

The characters are all really lovable, especially Leo, who is so sweet and supportive. From going on walks with Simran’s uncle to help him get in shape, to learning Hindi and Tamil, to attempting to make chai (that even he admits is terrible), it’s clear he’s crazy about Simran and truly wants the approval of her family. What an absolute doll.

Adorable romance aside, the relationships between friends and family are also fantastic. Leo and Rishi become pals almost immediately and their banter is just so fun. Simran and Kavitha are more like sisters than cousins. They go through a few rough patches and there’s some hurt on both sides stemming from Simran’s years-long absence, but they’re able to work things out. Kavitha eventually shares something personal with Simran that she’s mostly kept to herself, and Simran’s steadfast acceptance of her cousin is wonderful to see.

One of my favorite things about this book, though, is seeing Veena Aunty’s character progression. While she’s definitely strong-willed and a little overbearing, she truly wants the best for her girls, and that includes Simran. She’s also a lot more accepting than Simran gives her credit for. I really loved how the two of them are able to open up and come to understand each other better.

Overall, Leave and Come Back is an amazing book and a most impressive debut. I’ll be on the lookout for Lavanya Lakshmi’s work in the future!

[Mikayla Mann · Rating 4 out of 5]

The word vibrant comes to mind when thinking about this fun, heartwarming, “rom-com-fam-dram.” Simran is our 20-something leading lady, living in Toronto with her best friend Liv and newfound love interest, Leo. She receives a wedding invitation for her cousin Geeta’s wedding and, feeling lost, realizes that she has to return to Iyer house to find herself again. She was orphaned as a child and moved from Chennai, India, to New Jersey to live with her aunt, uncle, and two cousins. The only problem is she has been estranged from her family for many years. As a teen, she was desperate to escape her aunt’s rules and the painful memories associated their house. In order to get access to her childhood family’s home in India, their belongings, and untold memories, she has to return home and make peace. She returns for the wedding preparations and myriad cultural celebrations with a newfound mission of winning her family over, with the added complication of her new love interest staying next door, also hoping to win favor.
I honestly loved this book. I could see, smell, hear, and even taste so many of the scenes. The descriptions of the outfits, the marriage celebrations, the CHAI. Just such a fun read. Some bouts of predictability, but I don’t read a romcom to be completely shocked—I go to it for the formula and HEA and stay if the story is enjoyable. All told, I would absolutely recommend this for those of you interested in a romcom that will have you groaning occasionally from the relatability of family expectations.
Thanks to NetGalley and Viking Penguin for the advanced e-book copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Anjali Chanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, the things I could say about this book. Thank you so much to Viking Penguin and NetGalley for this ARC, and to Lavanya for writing it. I absolutely adored LEAVE AND COME BACK.

I read this book in one sitting, right after I received the notification that I was approved for the ARC. LEAVE AND COME BACK follows our main character Simran returning home after seven years away for her cousin’s wedding. Right before the wedding, she starts dating Leo, a longtime friend, but Simran doesn’t want to tell her aunt Veena that she has a boyfriend for fear of judgment and provoking her aunt’s ire. But things start to go awry when Leo accidentally crashes the engagement party. To avoid any sort of crisis, Simran enlists her cousins’ help to trick Veena into loving Leo…aka DDLJ.

This book has swoonworthy romance, laugh-out-loud lines, but a deep, profound heart. Simran’s strained relationship stems from grief, as the unexpected deaths of her parents forced her to move from India to New Jersey when she was a teenager. But grief still shows up in small ways, most impactful for me with the character of Rishi.

Rishi is the groom-to-be, marrying into Simran’s family. He is goofy, playful, and a great foil to the tense family dynamics. But the reason he struck me so much was because of a conversation he had with Leo in the middle of the book. Rishi jokes that he is a “coconut” because he’s “brown on the outside, white on the inside.” Rishi then goes on to explain he has never felt Indian enough. His parents spoke English to him and let him eat American food, and he never cared because when he was growing up, being Indian wasn’t cool.

This was the first time I had ever seen a character like this in any media, and reading this made me cry because it was exactly how I felt. This was a small part of the book, but it felt so vastly important and loud for me, which I think is a function of this book. It’s representative of so many types of Indian people, and there is something in here for everyone to love. There’s romance, there’s comedy, but there’s an undercurrent of tragedy that makes the book feel so unapologetically human. This is why I read, and it’s the same reason why I write. I am so grateful that I was able to read this book in advance, and I cannot wait until it comes out in June.

Get LEAVE AND COME BACK from your local bookstore or library, and be prepared to feel everything it offers.

[♡ Anna Katalina ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks NetGalley for giving me an ARC.

I adore this rom-com-fam-dram novel! Simran is such a nuanced female character. At times, I felt that Simran was drowning in her emotional baggage, yet she found the strength to pull herself through, not without help from her golden-retriever boyfriend Leo and her mischievous, fun-loving cousins. I wish Leo had been fleshed out a bit more. The book is filled with such strong characters such as Kavitha, Geeta, and Veema, who stand out so much (in a spectacular way) that Leo’s character feels slightly overshadowed. Yet, actions speak louder than words; you can feel the way Leo adapts to the chaotic situation reflect how he is willing to do everything for Simran and how open-minded he is trying to integrate with her culture. I am all for books that have strong and sassy female characters. Each of the characters then has their own HEA which I am so happy for them.

I loved the concept of family that the author explores in this book. Family stands at the center of who we are, but it can also cause pain. Generational differences often lead to misunderstandings, as elders try to teach the younger how to survive the world in the ways they know, sometimes in a misguided way, but ultimately driven by love.

A wonderful debut from author Lavanya Lakshmi. She skillfully weaves romance, grief, family drama, culture, humor, and love together, making you feel gut-wrenched one moment and laughing the next, all set against the gorgeous backdrop of an Indian wedding. I will be rooting for her and can't wait to see her next work.

[Laila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leave and Come Back is one of those books that feels both entertaining and deeply personal. On the surface it’s a story filled with humor, wedding chaos, and the warmth of a big South Asian family, but underneath it explores the kind of emotional wounds that linger long after we’ve grown up and moved away.

Simran returns home for a two-week wedding she would have preferred to avoid, and watching her navigate relatives who judge more than they listen felt incredibly familiar to me. The author captures the experience of being part of a culture where elders insert themselves into every corner of your life, even when they have no business doing so. If your choices don’t line up with their worldview, they believe you’re living wrong. That part hit hard because I come from a similar background, and I saw so much of my own family dynamics reflected in Simran’s story.

I loved how the book balances that heaviness with humor, especially through “Operation DDLJ,” which brings levity without dismissing the pain underneath. The writing is warm, sharp, and full of heart. Simran’s journey toward understanding herself, setting boundaries, and opening up to love felt honest and hopeful.

This is a story about family pressure, healing old wounds, and learning that coming back doesn’t mean losing yourself. It stayed with me long after I finished, and I’m so grateful I got to read it.

Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Terri (BooklyMatters) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful debut from a new author, which manages to be sweet, funny, and engaging, while also facing complex issues — grief, family obligations, less than useful coping mechanisms, and trauma — head on.

Laced with a charming romance that is just beginning for long-time friends Simran and Leo, the story captures the tingly, crazy, out-of control feelings of new love, along with the heavier, deeper pull of secrets and shame, on a collision course that cannot be avoided.

When Simran receives an unexpected invite to an extravagant multi-day Indian family wedding, her simmering issues can no longer be simply avoided.

Will Simran manage or even resolve her decades long bottled-up angst, rooted in an estranged family situation which may or may not reflect her best interests at heart? Or will it destroy her (and Leo’s) chance for happiness?

Will Leo manage to meet the deeply embedded traditional expectations of a South Indian family — with both Tamil and Punjabi roots — as they continue to swirl and shape the world-view of Simran, a haze of complex feelings encompassing both family belonging and an always striving need for independence?

A terrific read, I devoured this book and these characters, and the Indian wedding centered plot-line (both madcap and romantic) captured so beautifully by the author.

A great big thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts provided are my own.

[Renu S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this novel. As a South Asian American reader, seeing Simran Gopal at the center of a swoon-worthy romance—one that lovingly nods to Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge—felt both nostalgic and refreshing. The “Operation DDLJ” premise was hilarious from the start, and the chaotic energy of a two-week Indian wedding, complete with nosy aunties and high-stakes family politics, made it impossible to put down. The dialogue was genuinely funny (the banter between Simran, her cousins, and Leo had me grinning), and just when I thought I knew where the story was headed, a perfectly timed plot twist would pull me in even deeper.

Beyond the rom-com hijinks, I was moved by the emotional core of Simran’s journey—her grief, her complicated history with her family, and her struggle to reconcile the past with the life she wants now. The romance was tender and satisfying, but it was the exploration of healing and belonging that truly elevated the story. This is hands down my favorite novel in this genre that I've read in the past five years. I’m so grateful I received an advanced reader copy, and I genuinely cannot wait to read more from this author.

[harmony · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun, heartwarming, and cute romance that doesn't shy away from more difficult topics and also touches on grief and complex family relationships. Simran is home for the first time in years to partake in a 2-week long Indian wedding. When her new boyfriend shows up her cousins come up with a plan to help him win the favor of the community (particularly Simran's aunt) and from there chaos ensues.

It was so sweet how willing Leo was to assimilate himself into Simran's family dynamic. He went the extra mile every time to not only (attempt) to get in their good graces but also genuinely get to know them and become part of the family. The romance was cute but I think my favorite aspect was actually the familial relationships. I appreciate that none of the issues were brushed under the rug and gotten over without really being resolved; it took time and understanding to grow their relationships back to a better place. All in all, this was a nice debut!

[Adrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5 stars.

I really enjoyed Leave and Come Back. I thought this would be a cute rom com read but it was so much more than that. It had a beautiful romance but the story was really about love and family. I loved how the author portrayed the difficulties immigrant families have keeping and respecting their traditions and culture while also growing and adapting to new ones. I’m not Indian but could relate to a lot of the miscommunications and the different perspectives of 1st generational adults and their immediate family that migrated. Overall really well round book, funny, sad, and romantic. Very well written, there were so many quotes and sentences that stayed with me after reading.

Thank you to NetGalley and Viking Penguin for the advance reader copy of this book in return for an honest review.

[Morgan Carattini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even if the author wasn’t my friend, I would still be out here singing the praises of debut novel, Leave and Come Back by Lavanya Lakshmi. The vibrant cast of characters will find a place in your heart and you’ll laugh and cry along with them. This reminds me of some of my favorite movies from when I was younger, Bend it Like Beckham and My Big Fat Greek Wedding, with the blend of humor and emotional storytelling around family, culture and the importance of acceptance. There is so much to relate to in this story. That universality combined with the specific cultural elements made for such a rich world. I also enjoyed how the typical fake dating trope was skewed/reversed here with Simran and Leo pretending they aren’t dating for her family. Now I have to go watch DDLJ so I can have the full experience!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Viking Penguin, Pamela Dorman books and NetGalley for giving me the chance to read this lovely debut novel early!

I really enjoyed reading Leave and Come Back - it was a great way to spend a quiet reading day. it had the perfect blend of romance and the author did a wonderful job of balancing very complicated family dynamics. As someone vaguely familiar with Bollywood, I enjoyed the way the characters' love of those films tied in with their traditions and memories. I was left satisfied with the story I read, but still wanting more, which is my favorite spot to be in when I finish a book. As Kavi would say, it's my new favorite rom-com-fam-dram.

4.5 stars, and can't wait to read more from Lavanya!

[Miriam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review! An enjoyable read. The story unfolds during the chaotic weeks leading up to Simran’s sister’s wedding, and amid the stress and celebration, we also learn about Simran’s past. We see her navigate complicated relationships with previously estranged family members while her love interest works to earn the family’s approval.

The book leans into both Bollywood and Hollywood rom-com tropes without taking itself too seriously. Over the course of the story, family members grow, clash, and ultimately forgive one another, highlighting the depth of the unconditional love at the center of Simran’s family.

[shawna’s shelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leave and Come Back had me laughing, crying, and completely on the edge of my seat. I really appreciated how the story centered on family, grief, and growing through it. The characters you’re initially frustrated with slowly become ones you truly love, which made the journey even more meaningful. It’s such a beautiful, heartfelt story. I especially loved the ending and the way everything unfolded. I’m grateful to NetGalley for the ARC, and this is absolutely a must read. Keep the tissues nearby.

[Payton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a fully immersive experience for me much in the same way it was for Leo. I didn’t always understand what was going on but I was always enthusiastic about it and always happy to be there!!!

Simran (understandably) keeps so much so close to the chest, never fully open even with her closest friends. Leo, for his part, sees this and consciously decides not to mind it that much because he feels confident that she’ll share when she feels ready.

Him showing up because she wished offhand for it, despite the (extreme) newness of their relationship was so sweet, and his willingness to adapt to each (increasingly chaotic) situation in spite of the uncertainty of where it would lead had me more stressed for him than he was for himself.

And Simran was so protective of the life she’d made for herself that she put it at risk to keep it - because she had spent most of her life being shown that’s what she needed to do. Letting Leo in the door was the first step, but figuring out how to be vulnerable was the biggest leap of all.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gave me the same cozy feeling as watching a classic rom-com you always come back to (Love Actually for me), such a fun and heartwarming read!
The characters were definitely a highlight for me. They're charming but also imperfect, (well except Leo, fear of heights doesn't count as a flaw) but that only makes them more relatable and easy to root for. I think the story balances romance, family chaos and emotional moments in a great way and makes it a really enjoyable read.

Thanks NetGalley! :)

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great read! It had a nice mix of family hijinks, romance and life lessons. I really enjoyed how realistic the family dynamics felt. I might not come from the same background as a lot of these characters, but the anger, hurt and overall healing that comes from dealing with family really resonated with me. The comedy in this book was excellent as well - it had me laughing out loud at times. Such an impressive debut novel too! I can't wait to read more of her work :)

[Dipali · Rating 4 out of 5]

** A copy of Leave and Come Back was provided by the publisher and Edelweiss+ in exchange for an honest review **

4.5

Leave and Come Back is the perfect hug.
Bollywood ☑️
Chennai ☑️
Rom-com fam-dram ☑️
Swooning ☑️
Realistic portrayal of grief ☑️
Big fat Indian wedding ☑️
Sisterhood and friendship ☑️
Love in all its forms ☑️
Immigrant experience ☑️
Hijinks ☑️

[Tara]

This book was a delight to read. I am always here for more Indian-American romances and especially loved the way this one touched on very relevant themes of belonging. Also, as a half Tamilian, every time I looked at the title it made me smile, conjuring memories of my family participating in the same ritual Sim talks about.

[Doug · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favourite fam-dram-rom-com ever.

[Trisha]

A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.

[bookish_consent · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️