What do you think?
The Lost Photograph
“Beautiful, vivid, and atmospheric.” Fiona Valpy
A forgotten photograph. A trailblazing ancestor. And a modern woman about to discover that her family’s past holds the key to her future.
When overworked surgeon Jaanvi Chowdhury finds a mysterious photograph and a small stack of letters hidden in her Boston attic, she uncovers the remarkable story of her great-aunt Kalyani Joshi—one of the first Indian women to study medicine in 1920s London.
As Jaanvi pieces together her ancestor’s life, she discovers Kalyani’s experience of colonial oppression, her role in India’s fight for independence, and her unlikely connection with a Scottish missionary’s son, Alexander. Drawn together by their passion for literature, Kalyani and Alexander will risk everything for a free India, putting their loyalty, love, and choices to the test.
Navigating between past and present, Jaanvi confronts her own struggles. Passed over for promotion, she has lost sight of why she became a doctor. But as she learns how fiercely Kalyani fought for each opportunity—and the price she paid—Jaanvi begins to question her own carefully constructed life. Can her great-aunt’s unprecedented story help her reclaim not just her purpose in medicine but her sense of who she truly is?
A sweeping and captivating historical novel that will steal a piece of your heart, The Lost Photograph is perfect for fans of Alka Joshi, Kate Quinn, and Kristin Hannah.
A forgotten photograph. A trailblazing ancestor. And a modern woman about to discover that her family’s past holds the key to her future.
When overworked surgeon Jaanvi Chowdhury finds a mysterious photograph and a small stack of letters hidden in her Boston attic, she uncovers the remarkable story of her great-aunt Kalyani Joshi—one of the first Indian women to study medicine in 1920s London.
As Jaanvi pieces together her ancestor’s life, she discovers Kalyani’s experience of colonial oppression, her role in India’s fight for independence, and her unlikely connection with a Scottish missionary’s son, Alexander. Drawn together by their passion for literature, Kalyani and Alexander will risk everything for a free India, putting their loyalty, love, and choices to the test.
Navigating between past and present, Jaanvi confronts her own struggles. Passed over for promotion, she has lost sight of why she became a doctor. But as she learns how fiercely Kalyani fought for each opportunity—and the price she paid—Jaanvi begins to question her own carefully constructed life. Can her great-aunt’s unprecedented story help her reclaim not just her purpose in medicine but her sense of who she truly is?
A sweeping and captivating historical novel that will steal a piece of your heart, The Lost Photograph is perfect for fans of Alka Joshi, Kate Quinn, and Kristin Hannah.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2026
About the author
Archana Maniar
2 books46 followersArchana Maniar is an infectious disease physician and Professor of Medicine at the University of California, Davis. While she cares for patients during the day, by night, she can usually be found typing away on her laptop trying to free up the stories that have been flitting around in her mind -- usually with her cat Biju napping by her side.
As a child, Archana bounced between states, countries, and continents, having lived on both coasts of the US as well as in Mumbai, India. Before studying medicine, she studied political theory and biology at UCLA. With a perspective forged by trying to find home, her second novel, THE LOST PHOTOGRAPH, immerses the reader in Old Bombay at the verge of revolution against British colonial rule.
"THE LOST PHOTOGRAPH is a page-turner that has it all, forbidden love, clandestine meetings, and the very real danger of losing everything, including oneself. With vivid and compelling characters, the story is gripping and tender at the same time..."
--Nigar Alam, Under the Tamarind Tree
"A dazzling and deeply evocative novel ... Maniar's stunning prose instantly drew me in...impossible to put down..."
--Linda Wilgus, author of The Sea Child
"Maniar brings 1930s India to vibrant life with this riveting story of two women bound by blood and ambition. THE LOST PHOTOGRAPH is both intimate and sweeping ... a poignant, luminous novel that stays with you long after you've turned the last page."
--Claire Booth, author of Throwing Shadows and the Hank Worth mystery series
Her first novel, DRY SPELLS, was described as "a beautiful, vivid and atmospheric novel about the pain of leaving behind your heritage and the joys of rediscovering it. Maniar’s writing transports the reader to India in this evocative story of loss and redemption."
--by by Fiona Valpy, bestselling author of The Skylark's Secret
"In DRY SPELLS, lyrical prose and powerful storytelling come together to create unforgettable characters and moments ... Vividly evoking India's cultural landscapes, the book brims with color, depth, and authenticity - an immersive journey we believe with resonate with every reader"
--Preeti Urs, Literary Festival Director, Indo-American Arts Council
DRY SPELLS was an editor's choice for Amazon First Reads in the UK and Australia in April 2024.
Find her on Instagram @archanamaniar and Facebook @Archana Maniar
As a child, Archana bounced between states, countries, and continents, having lived on both coasts of the US as well as in Mumbai, India. Before studying medicine, she studied political theory and biology at UCLA. With a perspective forged by trying to find home, her second novel, THE LOST PHOTOGRAPH, immerses the reader in Old Bombay at the verge of revolution against British colonial rule.
"THE LOST PHOTOGRAPH is a page-turner that has it all, forbidden love, clandestine meetings, and the very real danger of losing everything, including oneself. With vivid and compelling characters, the story is gripping and tender at the same time..."
--Nigar Alam, Under the Tamarind Tree
"A dazzling and deeply evocative novel ... Maniar's stunning prose instantly drew me in...impossible to put down..."
--Linda Wilgus, author of The Sea Child
"Maniar brings 1930s India to vibrant life with this riveting story of two women bound by blood and ambition. THE LOST PHOTOGRAPH is both intimate and sweeping ... a poignant, luminous novel that stays with you long after you've turned the last page."
--Claire Booth, author of Throwing Shadows and the Hank Worth mystery series
Her first novel, DRY SPELLS, was described as "a beautiful, vivid and atmospheric novel about the pain of leaving behind your heritage and the joys of rediscovering it. Maniar’s writing transports the reader to India in this evocative story of loss and redemption."
--by by Fiona Valpy, bestselling author of The Skylark's Secret
"In DRY SPELLS, lyrical prose and powerful storytelling come together to create unforgettable characters and moments ... Vividly evoking India's cultural landscapes, the book brims with color, depth, and authenticity - an immersive journey we believe with resonate with every reader"
--Preeti Urs, Literary Festival Director, Indo-American Arts Council
DRY SPELLS was an editor's choice for Amazon First Reads in the UK and Australia in April 2024.
Find her on Instagram @archanamaniar and Facebook @Archana Maniar
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
September 18, 2026
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The Book Review Crew Blog
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Lost Photograph
Archana Maniar
Publication Date: September 15th, 2026
Amazon Publishing UK | Lake Union Publishing
399 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Women's Fiction
Doctor Jaanvi Chowdhury is an overworked surgeon in Boston. When she goes through her attic, she finds an old photograph and letters that tell a tale of her family's past.
In the 1920s and '30s, Jaanvi's great-aunt Kalyani has a job in the medical field in London at a time when few women did so. Kalyani becomes part of the Indian Independence movement and forms a bond with a Scottish missionary's son named Alexander. They form this bond over their shared love of literature and a free India. As Jaanvi reads about the sacrifices her great-aunt Kalyani made, she starts to get her gumption back for her passion to heal. Even though these women are a hundred years apart, they both have the same calling.
This was a very moving story to read. Both timelines were written well and were woven together nicely. The past timeline was filled with atmosphere and plenty of tension. Jaanvi's current timeline had its own struggles, and she was very relatable and felt authentic.
It's a very inspiring story of women in jobs usually ruled by men, and I loved how Jaanvi used her aunt's past to decide her future. The details and emotions made this book very engaging. I loved reading a positive story of family heritage and how these women triumph over adversity—they were such strong protagonists!
If you enjoy poignant historical fiction with a modern dual timeline, I can't recommend this enough.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Goodreads ratings reflect reader demographics and
popular enthusiasm rather than objective literary merit.
The Book Review Crew Blog
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Lost Photograph
Archana Maniar
Publication Date: September 15th, 2026
Amazon Publishing UK | Lake Union Publishing
399 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Women's Fiction
Doctor Jaanvi Chowdhury is an overworked surgeon in Boston. When she goes through her attic, she finds an old photograph and letters that tell a tale of her family's past.
In the 1920s and '30s, Jaanvi's great-aunt Kalyani has a job in the medical field in London at a time when few women did so. Kalyani becomes part of the Indian Independence movement and forms a bond with a Scottish missionary's son named Alexander. They form this bond over their shared love of literature and a free India. As Jaanvi reads about the sacrifices her great-aunt Kalyani made, she starts to get her gumption back for her passion to heal. Even though these women are a hundred years apart, they both have the same calling.
This was a very moving story to read. Both timelines were written well and were woven together nicely. The past timeline was filled with atmosphere and plenty of tension. Jaanvi's current timeline had its own struggles, and she was very relatable and felt authentic.
It's a very inspiring story of women in jobs usually ruled by men, and I loved how Jaanvi used her aunt's past to decide her future. The details and emotions made this book very engaging. I loved reading a positive story of family heritage and how these women triumph over adversity—they were such strong protagonists!
If you enjoy poignant historical fiction with a modern dual timeline, I can't recommend this enough.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Goodreads ratings reflect reader demographics and
popular enthusiasm rather than objective literary merit.
September 21, 2026
This book was a really enjoyable way to learn about a part of India’s struggle for independence – I wasn’t expecting that at all, but I was glad to learn about something I knew very little about.
The main story is set around 1929-30, where we follow Kalyani, an Indian woman, battling against cultural and family expectations in order to fulfil her dream to become a doctor. We also follow Alexander, a Scottish man who is also struggling with his own family expectations. Kalyani and Alexander both get involved in the movement for India’s independence, which was fascinating to hear about. They also begin to like each other, although it is an impossible relationship, frowned upon by society at those times, so they have to keep things secret.
There is also a second thread to the story, which is set mainly in 2019, where relatives of Kaliani, living in USA discover a photo of her and make an investigation into her life. While it was okay, I don’t really feel that this thread added much to the book, and it would have been effective enough without this thread.
At the beginning, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book, but I am glad that I persevered with it, as it was really quite a learning experience for me with regard to India’s history. I realise that it’s only really a little snippet of the history that we are exposed to as we read the book, but it has opened my eyes to all that I don’t know about India (and that’s a lot!).
I listened to audiobook and the narration was excellent – 5 stars. Soneela Nankani did a great job with different accents and expression in the dialogues. As a Scottish person, I can tell that the Scottish accent isn’t quite right, but it wasn’t too far off. There are very few people that can master it well. I’m glad I listened to the audiobook, rather than reading the text.
This is a good book for people who enjoy learning about history through historical fiction, and who also enjoy learning about other cultures as they read.
Thank you to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for sharing an advance listener copy of this book with me. All opinions are my own.
The main story is set around 1929-30, where we follow Kalyani, an Indian woman, battling against cultural and family expectations in order to fulfil her dream to become a doctor. We also follow Alexander, a Scottish man who is also struggling with his own family expectations. Kalyani and Alexander both get involved in the movement for India’s independence, which was fascinating to hear about. They also begin to like each other, although it is an impossible relationship, frowned upon by society at those times, so they have to keep things secret.
There is also a second thread to the story, which is set mainly in 2019, where relatives of Kaliani, living in USA discover a photo of her and make an investigation into her life. While it was okay, I don’t really feel that this thread added much to the book, and it would have been effective enough without this thread.
At the beginning, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book, but I am glad that I persevered with it, as it was really quite a learning experience for me with regard to India’s history. I realise that it’s only really a little snippet of the history that we are exposed to as we read the book, but it has opened my eyes to all that I don’t know about India (and that’s a lot!).
I listened to audiobook and the narration was excellent – 5 stars. Soneela Nankani did a great job with different accents and expression in the dialogues. As a Scottish person, I can tell that the Scottish accent isn’t quite right, but it wasn’t too far off. There are very few people that can master it well. I’m glad I listened to the audiobook, rather than reading the text.
This is a good book for people who enjoy learning about history through historical fiction, and who also enjoy learning about other cultures as they read.
Thank you to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for sharing an advance listener copy of this book with me. All opinions are my own.
September 24, 2026
Review to follow
September 24, 2026
2.5 or 2.75 ⭐️
This was a fine, middle-of-the-road read that started off strong but ultimately lost momentum in the second half. I was initially drawn to Dr. Jaanvi’s storyline as a surgeon struggling with empty nest syndrome and trying to figure out how to fill the void left by her college-bound children. Kalyani’s narrative was equally intriguing at first, making for an engaging setup across both perspectives.
However, around the 50 to 60 percent mark, the book became quite repetitive. Kalyani’s plotline started retreading the exact same topics and conflicts with her brother over and over, while Jaanvi’s narrative suffered from similar stagnation. Additionally, Jaanvi’s story shifted away from the medical setting and surgical focus I was enjoying into a direction I wasn't particularly interested in reading.
Most disappointingly, the connection between the two women felt unearned at the end. Jaanvi makes a sudden decision about her life and work that is supposedly inspired by Kalyani’s story, but the resolution happens so abruptly that I couldn't feel or understand what she actually gained from Kalyani's journey. The repetitive second half and rushed payoff dragged the overall experience down, leaving what began as a promising premise feeling fairly average.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a fine, middle-of-the-road read that started off strong but ultimately lost momentum in the second half. I was initially drawn to Dr. Jaanvi’s storyline as a surgeon struggling with empty nest syndrome and trying to figure out how to fill the void left by her college-bound children. Kalyani’s narrative was equally intriguing at first, making for an engaging setup across both perspectives.
However, around the 50 to 60 percent mark, the book became quite repetitive. Kalyani’s plotline started retreading the exact same topics and conflicts with her brother over and over, while Jaanvi’s narrative suffered from similar stagnation. Additionally, Jaanvi’s story shifted away from the medical setting and surgical focus I was enjoying into a direction I wasn't particularly interested in reading.
Most disappointingly, the connection between the two women felt unearned at the end. Jaanvi makes a sudden decision about her life and work that is supposedly inspired by Kalyani’s story, but the resolution happens so abruptly that I couldn't feel or understand what she actually gained from Kalyani's journey. The repetitive second half and rushed payoff dragged the overall experience down, leaving what began as a promising premise feeling fairly average.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2026
I received both the audio and ebook but I ended up listening to the whole thing. I found that the narrators were perfect and loved hearing the Indian and Scottish accents. This was an interesting and emotional story. I wasn't familiar with Indian culture or the independence movement, so this was enlightening. The story has three POVs and two timelines and everything was woven together perfectly. I liked the strong female characters and the theme of independence & self-discovery. The ending was not what I was hoping for, but it makes sense. 4⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a complimentary advanced copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own and are in no way influenced by the author, publisher or NetGalley.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a complimentary advanced copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own and are in no way influenced by the author, publisher or NetGalley.
September 18, 2026
The Lost Photograph by Archana Maniar is a dual-timeline historical fiction novel that connects the life of a modern-day surgeon, Jaanvi Chowdhury, with that of her remarkable ancestor, Kalyani Joshi, weaving together themes of identity, purpose, love, and resilience against the backdrop of India’s freedom struggle.
What drew me into this story almost immediately was how relatable Jaanvi felt. As someone struggling with career uncertainty, burnout, and the fear of stepping away from the safe path she had carefully built for herself, she felt incredibly real. I connected with her restlessness, her desire and hesitation to rediscover her old passion for photography, and her search for a deeper sense of purpose beyond professional success. Watching her slowly piece together her great-aunt’s story became just as much a journey of self-discovery as it was an exploration of family history.
I was equally, if not more, invested in Kalyani’s story. Watching her navigate life in colonial India was both inspiring and compelling. From secretly slipping away to meet fellow revolutionaries and becoming actively involved in the freedom movement, to constantly clashing with her brother who was determined to marry her off, Kalyani’s journey was one of courage and conviction. Her blossoming romance with Alexander, a Scottish missionary, added a tender layer to the story. What made her such a memorable character was the balance between her vulnerability and her strength. While grappling with societal expectations, judgment, and personal struggles, she never lost sight of her dream of contributing to a free India and forging a life on her own terms. It was truly rewarding to watch her carve a path that remained faithful to both her heart and her ideals.
What I loved most about the book was its dual timeline and how, at its heart, both Jaanvi’s and Kalyani’s journeys mirrored each other. Despite living in vastly different eras, both women are confronted with their deepest fears and must ultimately discover, embrace, and claim their true purpose in life. And watching them do exactly that felt so rewarding.
One of the book’s greatest strengths was the way it vividly brought colonial India, especially Mumbai, to life. I loved witnessing Kalyani’s unwavering determination to stand up for what was right, as well as her deep joy in returning home. Through Alexander’s eyes, readers also get to experience the vibrant colours, customs, and charming eccentricities of India. The author does not shy away from portraying the brutal realities of British rule, capturing the discrimination and inhumane treatment endured by Indians with remarkable honesty. Among the most powerful moments in the novel was the women's salt march at Chowpatty, a sequence that was both heartbreaking and profoundly moving.
I was completely swept away by the chemistry between Kalyani and Alexander. Their romance unfolds through quiet moments, shared books, and unspoken emotions, making it all the more captivating. I loved how literature became their language of affection, allowing them to express feelings they could not say aloud. Every exchanged note, lingering glance, and fleeting touch carried so much meaning that I found myself smiling ear-to-ear through their scenes.
What made their relationship especially memorable was its tenderness. Alexander's admiration for Kalyani felt sincere and unwavering, while Kalyani's trust in him grew naturally amidst the chaos surrounding them. Knowing from the very beginning that their story was unlikely to have a typical happy ending, filled every happy moment with a sense of impending heartbreak. By the time the truth of Kalyani's fate began to unfold, I was emotionally invested enough to feel every loss alongside them. Keep a box of tissues handy because you are definitely going to need them.
In the end, The Lost Photograph is a moving tribute to the women who came before us and the paths they carved for future generations. It is a story about courage, sacrifice, love, and finding one’s true calling. By the final page, I felt both emotional and grateful, reflecting on the many extraordinary women whose contributions to history may never be fully known, yet continue to shape our lives today. If you love historical fiction and strong female characters, you have to pick this one!
What drew me into this story almost immediately was how relatable Jaanvi felt. As someone struggling with career uncertainty, burnout, and the fear of stepping away from the safe path she had carefully built for herself, she felt incredibly real. I connected with her restlessness, her desire and hesitation to rediscover her old passion for photography, and her search for a deeper sense of purpose beyond professional success. Watching her slowly piece together her great-aunt’s story became just as much a journey of self-discovery as it was an exploration of family history.
I was equally, if not more, invested in Kalyani’s story. Watching her navigate life in colonial India was both inspiring and compelling. From secretly slipping away to meet fellow revolutionaries and becoming actively involved in the freedom movement, to constantly clashing with her brother who was determined to marry her off, Kalyani’s journey was one of courage and conviction. Her blossoming romance with Alexander, a Scottish missionary, added a tender layer to the story. What made her such a memorable character was the balance between her vulnerability and her strength. While grappling with societal expectations, judgment, and personal struggles, she never lost sight of her dream of contributing to a free India and forging a life on her own terms. It was truly rewarding to watch her carve a path that remained faithful to both her heart and her ideals.
What I loved most about the book was its dual timeline and how, at its heart, both Jaanvi’s and Kalyani’s journeys mirrored each other. Despite living in vastly different eras, both women are confronted with their deepest fears and must ultimately discover, embrace, and claim their true purpose in life. And watching them do exactly that felt so rewarding.
One of the book’s greatest strengths was the way it vividly brought colonial India, especially Mumbai, to life. I loved witnessing Kalyani’s unwavering determination to stand up for what was right, as well as her deep joy in returning home. Through Alexander’s eyes, readers also get to experience the vibrant colours, customs, and charming eccentricities of India. The author does not shy away from portraying the brutal realities of British rule, capturing the discrimination and inhumane treatment endured by Indians with remarkable honesty. Among the most powerful moments in the novel was the women's salt march at Chowpatty, a sequence that was both heartbreaking and profoundly moving.
I was completely swept away by the chemistry between Kalyani and Alexander. Their romance unfolds through quiet moments, shared books, and unspoken emotions, making it all the more captivating. I loved how literature became their language of affection, allowing them to express feelings they could not say aloud. Every exchanged note, lingering glance, and fleeting touch carried so much meaning that I found myself smiling ear-to-ear through their scenes.
What made their relationship especially memorable was its tenderness. Alexander's admiration for Kalyani felt sincere and unwavering, while Kalyani's trust in him grew naturally amidst the chaos surrounding them. Knowing from the very beginning that their story was unlikely to have a typical happy ending, filled every happy moment with a sense of impending heartbreak. By the time the truth of Kalyani's fate began to unfold, I was emotionally invested enough to feel every loss alongside them. Keep a box of tissues handy because you are definitely going to need them.
In the end, The Lost Photograph is a moving tribute to the women who came before us and the paths they carved for future generations. It is a story about courage, sacrifice, love, and finding one’s true calling. By the final page, I felt both emotional and grateful, reflecting on the many extraordinary women whose contributions to history may never be fully known, yet continue to shape our lives today. If you love historical fiction and strong female characters, you have to pick this one!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh my. I was a fan of Ms. Maniar after her first fabulous book, Dry Spells. I suppose my fandom has doubled with this one.
The Lost Photograph reveals another side of India, or maybe I should say two more sides, since this novel is a braided story connecting a contemporary character to her blood relative who lived through and participated in the upheavals of the 1930s when India was shaking off it’s colonial rulers.
We meet and follow the contemporary character, Jaanvi, and American-Indian physician, wife and mother as she awakens to question her assumed life paths. When she finds long-forgotten belongings from her great Aunt Kalyani, it sparks a renaissance in her family and in her search for a meaningful next chapter for her life.
Another of the braids then follows a coming-of-age Kalyani as she is navigating a life both limited by the long-standing cultural strictures of India and the new freedoms she has glimpsed by having been allowed to spend several years in Britain as one of the first women to study medicine there. When she returns to India, hoping to find refuge in the familiar world of family and home, she finds herself struggling to make herself fit back into the mold she had left. Changes to herself, to her family structure, to her own expectations of her life, and the changes to her friendships and loyalties swirling around her as Gandhi and the resistance movements he has fostered nudge their way into her life and plans. An attraction to a forbidden romance, and a brother intent on marrying her off before she can chose her own future complicates everything.
The story also follows a few other characters as needed, which lends depth, context and texture to the stories, which this author handles with grace and clarity. As well, India itself is almost another character as the author brings it so fully to life with its smells, tastes, fabrics and weather. Like in Dry Spells, rain and water play an integral part in underscoring the emotional movements of the characters. An example: “Jaanvi’s thoughtfully packaged plan felt like it was searing a hole in her pocket. She wound her way through Worcester, a steady drizzle speckling her windshield, her wipers whooshing rhythmically …. Jaanvi watched as the world went from misty to clear and back again…”
And
“Kalyani’s eyes drifted to the table where a tiny pool of water had collected arund the umbrella. She wished so badly she could wipe it away, as if by cleaning it off she might be able to pretend that monsoon shower and the whole afternoon that preceded it had not happened.”
Ms. Maniar’s lyrical prose, character development and depth of story all work to captivate me and keep me reading long after I told myself I was turning out the light for sleep! I’m so grateful that I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
The Lost Photograph reveals another side of India, or maybe I should say two more sides, since this novel is a braided story connecting a contemporary character to her blood relative who lived through and participated in the upheavals of the 1930s when India was shaking off it’s colonial rulers.
We meet and follow the contemporary character, Jaanvi, and American-Indian physician, wife and mother as she awakens to question her assumed life paths. When she finds long-forgotten belongings from her great Aunt Kalyani, it sparks a renaissance in her family and in her search for a meaningful next chapter for her life.
Another of the braids then follows a coming-of-age Kalyani as she is navigating a life both limited by the long-standing cultural strictures of India and the new freedoms she has glimpsed by having been allowed to spend several years in Britain as one of the first women to study medicine there. When she returns to India, hoping to find refuge in the familiar world of family and home, she finds herself struggling to make herself fit back into the mold she had left. Changes to herself, to her family structure, to her own expectations of her life, and the changes to her friendships and loyalties swirling around her as Gandhi and the resistance movements he has fostered nudge their way into her life and plans. An attraction to a forbidden romance, and a brother intent on marrying her off before she can chose her own future complicates everything.
The story also follows a few other characters as needed, which lends depth, context and texture to the stories, which this author handles with grace and clarity. As well, India itself is almost another character as the author brings it so fully to life with its smells, tastes, fabrics and weather. Like in Dry Spells, rain and water play an integral part in underscoring the emotional movements of the characters. An example: “Jaanvi’s thoughtfully packaged plan felt like it was searing a hole in her pocket. She wound her way through Worcester, a steady drizzle speckling her windshield, her wipers whooshing rhythmically …. Jaanvi watched as the world went from misty to clear and back again…”
And
“Kalyani’s eyes drifted to the table where a tiny pool of water had collected arund the umbrella. She wished so badly she could wipe it away, as if by cleaning it off she might be able to pretend that monsoon shower and the whole afternoon that preceded it had not happened.”
Ms. Maniar’s lyrical prose, character development and depth of story all work to captivate me and keep me reading long after I told myself I was turning out the light for sleep! I’m so grateful that I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
September 15, 2026
I became a fan of Archana Maniar's writing after her debut, Dry Spells, left a lasting impact on me a couple of years ago and knew I couldn't wait to pick up her next book.
The Lost Photograph takes us on a journey of India's fight for independence from the British Empire via a dual storyline; 2019, Jaanvi, an American-Indian physician, locates an old photograph of a distant relative. The photo is of her great Aunt Kalyani at a prestigious Medical college in London, and this sparks Jaanvi's intrigue who now wants to find out more about Kalyani's life from India in the 1920-30's. The book also shows us Kalyani's perspective as a young woman striving for academic excellence at a time when women are treated as second class citizens, defying cultural restrictions and expectations imposed on her at home, but also trying to overcome the prejudices and racism suffered by Indians whilst living under British rule. Kalyani is shown as being one of the first women to study medicine in Britain and spends several years there, enjoying new freedoms and camaraderie of two close friends, Elizabeth and Emma.
Unfortunately, life has other plans and the growing fervour of the resistance movement in India, plus her own personal circumstances, means Kalyani drops out of medical school and returns to India. Back at home, with her brother trying to intervene and get her married off threatens Kalyani's plans for her future. The resistance movement, particuarly the influence of real freedom fighters (Satyagrahis) like Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, gives Kalyani a new meaningful chapter in her life in supporting and aiding the efforts on the ground and treating peaceful protestors when they are confronted with violence by the British authorities.
The story is well fleshed out and I enjoyed reading Kalyani's forbidden romance with Alexander Wright, a missionary in India aiming to spread Christianity and convert the Indian population, who is battling his own demons eventually finds solace in the temples surrounding him. The dual timeline also shows that Jaanvi's battles are not too different to what her blood relative faces decades ago and even gives her the courage to take a risk and determine the trajectory of her life. As with Dry Spells, Maniar's writing has the ability to transport you across continents and I really felt as if I was experiencing Indian culture with the way smells, tastes, fabrics, locations and even the weather were described in this book. You could feel Kalyani's liberation as she enjoyed the downpour of the monsoon season. This book is of particular importance to shed a light on the contribution of Indian women to the Independence movement and is thoroughly researched. Having finished the book, I want to educate myself in more detail on the hardships and achievements of these unsung heroines.
Thank you Archana Maniar, Amazon Publishing UK and netgalley for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest unedited review.
The Lost Photograph takes us on a journey of India's fight for independence from the British Empire via a dual storyline; 2019, Jaanvi, an American-Indian physician, locates an old photograph of a distant relative. The photo is of her great Aunt Kalyani at a prestigious Medical college in London, and this sparks Jaanvi's intrigue who now wants to find out more about Kalyani's life from India in the 1920-30's. The book also shows us Kalyani's perspective as a young woman striving for academic excellence at a time when women are treated as second class citizens, defying cultural restrictions and expectations imposed on her at home, but also trying to overcome the prejudices and racism suffered by Indians whilst living under British rule. Kalyani is shown as being one of the first women to study medicine in Britain and spends several years there, enjoying new freedoms and camaraderie of two close friends, Elizabeth and Emma.
Unfortunately, life has other plans and the growing fervour of the resistance movement in India, plus her own personal circumstances, means Kalyani drops out of medical school and returns to India. Back at home, with her brother trying to intervene and get her married off threatens Kalyani's plans for her future. The resistance movement, particuarly the influence of real freedom fighters (Satyagrahis) like Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, gives Kalyani a new meaningful chapter in her life in supporting and aiding the efforts on the ground and treating peaceful protestors when they are confronted with violence by the British authorities.
The story is well fleshed out and I enjoyed reading Kalyani's forbidden romance with Alexander Wright, a missionary in India aiming to spread Christianity and convert the Indian population, who is battling his own demons eventually finds solace in the temples surrounding him. The dual timeline also shows that Jaanvi's battles are not too different to what her blood relative faces decades ago and even gives her the courage to take a risk and determine the trajectory of her life. As with Dry Spells, Maniar's writing has the ability to transport you across continents and I really felt as if I was experiencing Indian culture with the way smells, tastes, fabrics, locations and even the weather were described in this book. You could feel Kalyani's liberation as she enjoyed the downpour of the monsoon season. This book is of particular importance to shed a light on the contribution of Indian women to the Independence movement and is thoroughly researched. Having finished the book, I want to educate myself in more detail on the hardships and achievements of these unsung heroines.
Thank you Archana Maniar, Amazon Publishing UK and netgalley for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest unedited review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After reading Dry Spells by this author a couple of years ago - and really enjoying it - I was excited to see that this new book was heading our way and I couldn't wait to be transported back into another wonderful story.
Having worked hard for years, surgeon Jaanvi finds herself at a turning point in life.
With her boys about to head off to university, she wonders how her life will look once they're gone.
A visit to the attic uncovers some old boxes and a photo of one of her ancestors peaks her interest and brings the family together as they look into the life and troubles of Kalyani.
We follow the story over a dual timeline split between Jaanvi in present day US and Kalyani in a 1920's India, during a time when India was just starting to fight for its independence.
I loved how these two threads of the story wove together and I was completely invested in both of them and all its characters.
Jaanvi was so relatable - although I'm not quite in the same position workwise, I found her reminiscing and contemplation of a life after children was something that I'd been through myself over the last few years too.
It was great to see her making the most out of the time with her boys and giving them the opportunity to delve into a wonderful family history.
Picking up an old love of photography was an added bonus!
I absolutely adored Kalyani's storyline.
I'm not a huge history fan, but when incorporated into such a wonderfully written story like this, I have to admit to being completely obsessed.
Not only was the romantic thread beautifully done - yep, I definitely got a little emotional throughout - the history of an oppressed India captured my heart too.
Definitely not something I've ever thought about, but after learning the bits through the book, I've found myself stopping and researching even more since.
The culture difference was fascinating - I know some will have also been the era - but seeing India through Alexander's eyes was so special, but it also showed just how awful the other side of that was too.
Some of the scenes were heartbreaking.
I'm so grateful for those who research and create these stories as I feel this is such a great way to get everyone invested in important historical events and people who should be celebrated more than they are.
It's certainly allowed me to enjoy and learn lots and I just love this author's writing style which had me completely immersed throughout - I can't wait to read more.
Having worked hard for years, surgeon Jaanvi finds herself at a turning point in life.
With her boys about to head off to university, she wonders how her life will look once they're gone.
A visit to the attic uncovers some old boxes and a photo of one of her ancestors peaks her interest and brings the family together as they look into the life and troubles of Kalyani.
We follow the story over a dual timeline split between Jaanvi in present day US and Kalyani in a 1920's India, during a time when India was just starting to fight for its independence.
I loved how these two threads of the story wove together and I was completely invested in both of them and all its characters.
Jaanvi was so relatable - although I'm not quite in the same position workwise, I found her reminiscing and contemplation of a life after children was something that I'd been through myself over the last few years too.
It was great to see her making the most out of the time with her boys and giving them the opportunity to delve into a wonderful family history.
Picking up an old love of photography was an added bonus!
I absolutely adored Kalyani's storyline.
I'm not a huge history fan, but when incorporated into such a wonderfully written story like this, I have to admit to being completely obsessed.
Not only was the romantic thread beautifully done - yep, I definitely got a little emotional throughout - the history of an oppressed India captured my heart too.
Definitely not something I've ever thought about, but after learning the bits through the book, I've found myself stopping and researching even more since.
The culture difference was fascinating - I know some will have also been the era - but seeing India through Alexander's eyes was so special, but it also showed just how awful the other side of that was too.
Some of the scenes were heartbreaking.
I'm so grateful for those who research and create these stories as I feel this is such a great way to get everyone invested in important historical events and people who should be celebrated more than they are.
It's certainly allowed me to enjoy and learn lots and I just love this author's writing style which had me completely immersed throughout - I can't wait to read more.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
💬 My Bookish Thoughts
I adore historical fiction about India and when you add a dual timeline, I’m even more intrigued!
The Lost Photograph is a beautifully written, atmospheric story following two generations of Indian women, both trying to balance their passion for medicine, their home lives and the expectations placed on them by society.
We follow Jaanvi, an overworked and under-recognised surgeon in Boston, as she begins piecing together the secret past of her trailblazing great-aunt Kalyani. Her journey takes us back to 1920s London, where Kalyani is studying medicine before returning to India during a time of colonial oppression and growing calls for independence.
I fell in love with these characters and their stories, and if it’s at all possible, this book has made me want to visit India even more! 🇮🇳
I learned so much about India’s fight for independence, the impact of colonialism, and the struggles women faced for equal access to education, professional opportunities and the freedom to make their own choices.
It’s a story about freedom, equality, identity and finding your place in a world that is constantly trying to define you — with a gorgeous love story woven throughout. ❤️
And something I found absolutely fascinating is that Archana is an infectious disease physician and Professor of Medicine at the University of California. Her medical knowledge really shines through in the descriptions of medical study, procedures and the experiences of these women pursuing careers in medicine.
📝 I also absolutely loved that Archana included a glossary. As someone who is always grateful for a little extra help with unfamiliar words and phrases, this was very welcome!
✨ Three words:
Compelling 🧲 Fascinating 🌎 Important 🕊️
✨ This digital ARC was kindly gifted by Archana Maniar, Amazon UK Publishing and NetGalley. This is my honest, voluntary review.
I adore historical fiction about India and when you add a dual timeline, I’m even more intrigued!
The Lost Photograph is a beautifully written, atmospheric story following two generations of Indian women, both trying to balance their passion for medicine, their home lives and the expectations placed on them by society.
We follow Jaanvi, an overworked and under-recognised surgeon in Boston, as she begins piecing together the secret past of her trailblazing great-aunt Kalyani. Her journey takes us back to 1920s London, where Kalyani is studying medicine before returning to India during a time of colonial oppression and growing calls for independence.
I fell in love with these characters and their stories, and if it’s at all possible, this book has made me want to visit India even more! 🇮🇳
I learned so much about India’s fight for independence, the impact of colonialism, and the struggles women faced for equal access to education, professional opportunities and the freedom to make their own choices.
It’s a story about freedom, equality, identity and finding your place in a world that is constantly trying to define you — with a gorgeous love story woven throughout. ❤️
And something I found absolutely fascinating is that Archana is an infectious disease physician and Professor of Medicine at the University of California. Her medical knowledge really shines through in the descriptions of medical study, procedures and the experiences of these women pursuing careers in medicine.
📝 I also absolutely loved that Archana included a glossary. As someone who is always grateful for a little extra help with unfamiliar words and phrases, this was very welcome!
✨ Three words:
Compelling 🧲 Fascinating 🌎 Important 🕊️
✨ This digital ARC was kindly gifted by Archana Maniar, Amazon UK Publishing and NetGalley. This is my honest, voluntary review.
September 15, 2026
I really wanted to like this book more than I did. Perhaps I should’ve read it rather than listened to it. I’m sure I’d have enjoyed it more in a printed version.
It would, however, make a sumptuous movie.
Therefore, I feel I can give it 3 stars even though I gave up halfway through.
The story is told from 3 perspectives : that of surgeon Janvee in modern day Massachusetts , and that of her long lost aunt Kalyani, as well as Scotsman Alexander who are both living in Bombay in the 1920s.
The story centers around Kalyani and I feel is one that has been told many times before. A young, beautiful, clever woman experiences prejudice and unwanted sexual advances in a foreign country. She returns home to India only to find she is faced with similar attitudes plus, in addition, a deadline to save herself from an unwanted marriage.
Of course, we all wish this story was not so common. Just because it’s been told many times before it doesn’t make it less wrong or less unfair.
The story of Kalyani is reflected in the prejudice that Janvee experiences from her colleagues at work, too.
The author obviously has a lot of historical and medical knowledge, and she wants to impart this via the dialogues and thoughts of the main characters. Unfortunately, for me, this makes the dialogues feel less realistic.
I listened to the audiobook. The narrator tries hard at making the diverse accents and voices sound believable. It’s a tough job and one that would’ve benefited from having two narrators. Female Indian and Scottish male voices and accents are very, very different. It would be a wonder if one person could make both sound right.
Hence this was a DNF for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for generously allowing me to listen to an ARC of this book. The opinions above are very obviously all my own. I’m sorry.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Archana Maniar
The Lost Photograph by Archana Maniar is a beautiful and atmospheric historical fiction novel about India’s fight for independence. I have never been to India, but the writing made me feel as though I were right there with Kalyani and Alexander in 1930s Bombay. I loved how the two timelines—one following a surgeon uncovering her great-aunt’s remarkable story as one of the first Indian women to study medicine in 1920s London—came together in a story that felt both sweeping and deeply personal.
One of my favorite things about historical fiction is discovering how ordinary lives are shaped by larger historical events, and Archana Maniar does this wonderfully. The emotional journey is just as compelling as uncovering the truth, making these characters easy to care about from beginning to end. This is another brilliant book from Archana, and The Lost Photograph will stay with me for a long time. Absolutely loved it!
My sincere thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for providing me with a free advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The historical storyline in The Lost Photograph that takes place during India’s struggle for independence is richly drawn, transporting the reader into a time when women's choices were severely restricted.
What makes this novel particularly powerful, however, is its modern-day storyline. Although female doctors today have access to opportunities that earlier generations could only dream of, they continue to still encounter sexism in subtler forms.
Ultimately, though, this is a novel about resilience. The forbidden love story provides its emotional center, while the sweeping historical context gives it depth and perspective. Women—both past and present—demonstrate that breaking barriers is rarely a single dramatic act. It is often a long process of persistence, courage, and refusing to accept the limitations others impose.
Beautifully ambitious and emotionally engaging, Dr. Maniar succeeds because it makes history personal.
I was given early access to The Lost Photograph through Netgalley and this is my unbiased opinion.
What makes this novel particularly powerful, however, is its modern-day storyline. Although female doctors today have access to opportunities that earlier generations could only dream of, they continue to still encounter sexism in subtler forms.
Ultimately, though, this is a novel about resilience. The forbidden love story provides its emotional center, while the sweeping historical context gives it depth and perspective. Women—both past and present—demonstrate that breaking barriers is rarely a single dramatic act. It is often a long process of persistence, courage, and refusing to accept the limitations others impose.
Beautifully ambitious and emotionally engaging, Dr. Maniar succeeds because it makes history personal.
I was given early access to The Lost Photograph through Netgalley and this is my unbiased opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Lost Photograph by Archana Maniar is a powerful and moving story that beautifully weaves together history, culture, family, and the strength of women.
What resonated with me most were the female characters and the different ways each woman finds her voice. Their strength isn’t expressed in just one way—it evolves through their choices, their relationships, their struggles, and their willingness to challenge what is expected of them.
I also loved experiencing India’s independence movement through a female lens. We often learn about this period through political leaders and major historical events, but this story brings us into the lives of women experiencing those changes personally. Their own journeys toward independence unfold alongside a country fighting for its own.
As a South Asian woman, I especially appreciated the cultural details and the way the story explores the complexities of tradition, identity, family, and change. It is a thoughtful and beautifully layered novel with strong female characters who stayed with me after I finished the book.
What resonated with me most were the female characters and the different ways each woman finds her voice. Their strength isn’t expressed in just one way—it evolves through their choices, their relationships, their struggles, and their willingness to challenge what is expected of them.
I also loved experiencing India’s independence movement through a female lens. We often learn about this period through political leaders and major historical events, but this story brings us into the lives of women experiencing those changes personally. Their own journeys toward independence unfold alongside a country fighting for its own.
As a South Asian woman, I especially appreciated the cultural details and the way the story explores the complexities of tradition, identity, family, and change. It is a thoughtful and beautifully layered novel with strong female characters who stayed with me after I finished the book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I knew I shouldn’t start reading this on a weeknight, but my restraint absconded with my willpower the minute I laid my hands on this book. Maniar has done it again, artfully weaving the story of two women—related by blood and connected through time. Both buck the norms of a society that is geared to suppress their intelligence and passion. The book brings a much-needed perspective on the struggles of the Indian people under colonial rule and the tireless work of courageous souls who risked everything to gain independence. Any woman who has tried to break a glass ceiling, flex her independence, or get recognition for the merits of her work will savor this book like a crisp raspberry sorbet on a hot summer's night.
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Lost Photograph is a thoughtful historical novel about memory, family, and the stories hidden behind old photographs. As long-buried secrets begin to surface, the novel explores how a single image can connect generations and reveal parts of the past that have been forgotten or intentionally left untold. I especially enjoyed how the mystery unfolded through personal relationships rather than relying on constant twists.
One of my favorite parts of historical fiction is discovering how ordinary lives are shaped by larger historical events, and this novel does that well. The emotional journey felt just as important as uncovering the truth, making the characters easy to care about from beginning to end. My sincere thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free advance review copy.
One of my favorite parts of historical fiction is discovering how ordinary lives are shaped by larger historical events, and this novel does that well. The emotional journey felt just as important as uncovering the truth, making the characters easy to care about from beginning to end. My sincere thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free advance review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was an interesting dual-timeline story set against the backdrop of Indian independence, following two women from the same family, of different generations as they navigate very different struggles. I really enjoyed the premise and the historical setting, but I found the story dragged quite a bit in the middle. I also didn’t feel the narrator was particularly well suited to the range of accents needed to tell the story. Overall, though, it was an interesting read that opened my eyes to a period of history I knew very little about.
Thank you to Brilliance Publishing, Brilliance Audio, and NetGalley for an Advanced Listening Copy of this book.
Thank you to Brilliance Publishing, Brilliance Audio, and NetGalley for an Advanced Listening Copy of this book.
September 14, 2026
An interesting novel that weaves important lessons in history into a feminist-driven story. 4.25 stars.
A stressed-out surgeon of Indian origin living in the U.S. finds an old photo in her attic of a distant relative standing in front of the London School of Medicine. Are there other doctors aong her kin? We follow her as she researches her family's history. Alternating are chapters narrated by her distant auntie, and we learn what her relative's life was like growing up in India as a female who wanted to study and do more than be a housewife and mother. The two lives share some commonalities in addition to blood, as the surgeon and her family travel to India to learn more about their history.
The audiobook is well-narrated. I enjoyed the story, but it didn't stay with me much after I finished it.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrilliancePublishing, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook for review purposes. It is now available.
A stressed-out surgeon of Indian origin living in the U.S. finds an old photo in her attic of a distant relative standing in front of the London School of Medicine. Are there other doctors aong her kin? We follow her as she researches her family's history. Alternating are chapters narrated by her distant auntie, and we learn what her relative's life was like growing up in India as a female who wanted to study and do more than be a housewife and mother. The two lives share some commonalities in addition to blood, as the surgeon and her family travel to India to learn more about their history.
The audiobook is well-narrated. I enjoyed the story, but it didn't stay with me much after I finished it.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrilliancePublishing, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook for review purposes. It is now available.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A historical fiction that takes the reader from present day to the past of India and the end of British colonialism. An old photograph from the past sends Jaanvi on a journey. The photograph shows Kalyani and 2 other women in front of a medical school in London. The story takes us to India in 1920's and 1930's. The parallel between Jaanvi and Kalyani is very interesting. Also a part I thoroughly enjoyed was the history of India and the history of the British colonialism.
I was given an advance copy, I give this a 5 star review.
I was given an advance copy, I give this a 5 star review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A beautiful historical fiction novel about India’s fight for independence. The writing was superb and wonderfully atmospheric. I have never been to India, but it felt like I was right there with Kalyani and Alexander in Bombay in the 1930s. The Lost Photograph will stay with me for a while, I loved it.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK, Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this review copy.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK, Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the advance copy. I heard about Archana Maniar and her books before. Now, I am hooked on them. This story is amazing to read because Jaanvi started to trace the secret past of her great-aunt. I love to read historical fiction books and this book did not disappoint me. I love the characters and the historical significance of each part of the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Archana has done it again with another brilliant book! A surgeon who’s lost her spark uncovers her great-aunt’s story as one of the first Indian women to study medicine in 1920s London, and the two timelines braid together into something equal parts sweeping and personal. This one stayed with me long after I finished it! Highly recommend it!
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