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A Place Called Home
In the windowless, cramped servant's room at Mrs Shetty's luxurious house, where her mother is a maid, Alka dreams of an escape. When Mrs Shetty decides to send her to the same school as her daughter, she works hard, moulding herself into a new avatar.
She marries Subbu, a coffee grower with a four hundred acre estate. Between taking care of her heritage home, her two young daughters and her fabulous relationship with her mother-in-law, Alka's life feels complete.
But when secrets about her past that she has fiercely guarded are exposed, they threaten to destroy her life. To protect all that she has, Alka must fight her demons and travel back to the world she worked so hard to leave behind.
A Place Called Home is a novel about secrets, family, and finding yourself, from bestselling author Preeti Shenoy.
She marries Subbu, a coffee grower with a four hundred acre estate. Between taking care of her heritage home, her two young daughters and her fabulous relationship with her mother-in-law, Alka's life feels complete.
But when secrets about her past that she has fiercely guarded are exposed, they threaten to destroy her life. To protect all that she has, Alka must fight her demons and travel back to the world she worked so hard to leave behind.
A Place Called Home is a novel about secrets, family, and finding yourself, from bestselling author Preeti Shenoy.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2022
32 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Preeti Shenoy
42 books2,452 followersPreeti 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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
November 10, 2024
The only thing that kept me reading this book was the simple, accessible writing. Left the second half unread (DNFed. Couldn't bear the main character anymore!).
Otherwise I couldn't like anything else about the book or the story.
First, a problematic main character. Cheats with her best friend's boyfriend and acts all self righteous.
All the characters seem quite distant and I really don't know what the story is trying to tell. Is it about how righteous the characters are or how they are struggling that too without being grateful with how things were despite their sorry circumstances and lies?
Done with it.
Otherwise I couldn't like anything else about the book or the story.
First, a problematic main character. Cheats with her best friend's boyfriend and acts all self righteous.
All the characters seem quite distant and I really don't know what the story is trying to tell. Is it about how righteous the characters are or how they are struggling that too without being grateful with how things were despite their sorry circumstances and lies?
Done with it.
July 25, 2022
Let me begin with - I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book!! ❤️❤️ I loved how much I could relate with Alka, with her perception of the world around her, her love for her mother, Seema, and, her love for books.
I felt so proud every time she stood up for herself and gave a befitting reply to anyone who taunted her or took advantage of her. Her strong will to give her mother a much better life deeply resonated with me and made me emotionally connect with the story.
This is a story of Alka, who along with her mother, worked in the house of Mrs. Shetty, as a maid. Even though Mrs. Shetty paid Alka's school fees and sent her to the same school her own daughter studied in, Alka still felt like she was a "charity" case for her. She felt like a tool Mrs. Shetty used to get respect and praise in her inner circle. Alka's only goal was to study hard and earn enough to provide her mother with a luxurious life.
But do all dreams come true? Will she ever find a place she can call HOME?
Her childhood was hard and her teenage even harder. But that is where my favorite character enters--- Ms. Jalan, her librarian, who soon became a close friend of hers. I loved how understanding she was. I wish I had a teacher like her. 🥲
I was really happy when her hard work started to pay off and somewhere thought I knew how it would end. And that is where I was wrong because life is unpredictable and the author has written a fairly realistic story.
I loved Manasi, her friend, and felt she deserved better, as did Alka. I loved how beautifully the author has described love and friendship, the sacrifices one makes for them, and the ugly consequences one has to face sometimes because of them.
As for Krish and Subbu, both of them had worked very hard and had to grow up a lot faster because of the responsibilities they had, but still, I felt they had a lot left to learn before committing to marriage. I still can't make peace with the ending.
I was happy to see Alka's character arc and found it super inspiring!
I felt so proud every time she stood up for herself and gave a befitting reply to anyone who taunted her or took advantage of her. Her strong will to give her mother a much better life deeply resonated with me and made me emotionally connect with the story.
This is a story of Alka, who along with her mother, worked in the house of Mrs. Shetty, as a maid. Even though Mrs. Shetty paid Alka's school fees and sent her to the same school her own daughter studied in, Alka still felt like she was a "charity" case for her. She felt like a tool Mrs. Shetty used to get respect and praise in her inner circle. Alka's only goal was to study hard and earn enough to provide her mother with a luxurious life.
But do all dreams come true? Will she ever find a place she can call HOME?
Her childhood was hard and her teenage even harder. But that is where my favorite character enters--- Ms. Jalan, her librarian, who soon became a close friend of hers. I loved how understanding she was. I wish I had a teacher like her. 🥲
I was really happy when her hard work started to pay off and somewhere thought I knew how it would end. And that is where I was wrong because life is unpredictable and the author has written a fairly realistic story.
I loved Manasi, her friend, and felt she deserved better, as did Alka. I loved how beautifully the author has described love and friendship, the sacrifices one makes for them, and the ugly consequences one has to face sometimes because of them.
As for Krish and Subbu, both of them had worked very hard and had to grow up a lot faster because of the responsibilities they had, but still, I felt they had a lot left to learn before committing to marriage. I still can't make peace with the ending.
I was happy to see Alka's character arc and found it super inspiring!
July 22, 2022
Preeti Shenoy is among the top five highest selling authors in India, is also on the Forbes longlist of the most influential celebrities in India.
As the title suggests, this book is about finding your home, your comfort- a place where you can laugh and need not to take someone’s permission even to breathe.
Alka is a young girl who lives with her mother in Mrs Shetty’s home and studies in her daughter’s school. She lives a difficult life of debt of Shettys and is afraid that her life will shatter if somebody finds out that her mother is a maid. All her life she had only one dream: to study hard, get a job and buy a house and freedom for her mother. But things don’t always work as per plan.
It is a story about Alka and her life full of secrets that can’t be kept for long. The story moves ahead sharing the ups and downs of her life, whether she finds a home- a safe place or not and if she will ever find her true love.
The book is fast paced with very simple languages which helps readers to finish it in a day or even in a single sitting. I liked how the story started with a little bit from her past and moved back and forth. The characters are amazing. I really liked the character of Amma who is so loving and caring towards Alka. The dynamics between friendships were quite interesting to read.
Overall it is an amazing book and best for beginners as well. You should definitely try this book if you love books about ambitions, love, family, domestic violence, finding inner peace and along with all this- great fast paced simple writing.
As the title suggests, this book is about finding your home, your comfort- a place where you can laugh and need not to take someone’s permission even to breathe.
Alka is a young girl who lives with her mother in Mrs Shetty’s home and studies in her daughter’s school. She lives a difficult life of debt of Shettys and is afraid that her life will shatter if somebody finds out that her mother is a maid. All her life she had only one dream: to study hard, get a job and buy a house and freedom for her mother. But things don’t always work as per plan.
It is a story about Alka and her life full of secrets that can’t be kept for long. The story moves ahead sharing the ups and downs of her life, whether she finds a home- a safe place or not and if she will ever find her true love.
The book is fast paced with very simple languages which helps readers to finish it in a day or even in a single sitting. I liked how the story started with a little bit from her past and moved back and forth. The characters are amazing. I really liked the character of Amma who is so loving and caring towards Alka. The dynamics between friendships were quite interesting to read.
Overall it is an amazing book and best for beginners as well. You should definitely try this book if you love books about ambitions, love, family, domestic violence, finding inner peace and along with all this- great fast paced simple writing.
July 26, 2022
A Place called Home by Preeti Shenoy 📚
A Place called Home is a realistic romance novel with grit and finesse. It had a very morally grey plot and a sense of charm to it. The book was written in a beautiful way and it was charming to read. It was fast paced and had simple language. I finished the book in 3-4 hours. Honestly, I felt like the book was a Bollywood movie. It had the drama and flair to be on the big screen.
This was my first try of the author's work and I was pleased with her writing style. I was not a great fan of the plot though. I didn't like the way that the morals of all the characters were skewed. I feel like there are certain lines should never be crossed and it was in this book. So I personally could not relate to the characters or like them at all.
The stark difference in the settings were appreciated, from small town to big city life. It was portrayed perfectly. In a way it was also a story of feminism, rags to riches story and male chauvinism. There was so much to like about the book, especially the strong female lead, Alka. I did not like the ending or the justification for it. Like I mentioned before, certain acts are unforgivable and we as women should stop accepting less than we deserve.
If you like romance with a lot of drama and tragedy, you should go for it.
- Afreen Khalil
A Place called Home is a realistic romance novel with grit and finesse. It had a very morally grey plot and a sense of charm to it. The book was written in a beautiful way and it was charming to read. It was fast paced and had simple language. I finished the book in 3-4 hours. Honestly, I felt like the book was a Bollywood movie. It had the drama and flair to be on the big screen.
This was my first try of the author's work and I was pleased with her writing style. I was not a great fan of the plot though. I didn't like the way that the morals of all the characters were skewed. I feel like there are certain lines should never be crossed and it was in this book. So I personally could not relate to the characters or like them at all.
The stark difference in the settings were appreciated, from small town to big city life. It was portrayed perfectly. In a way it was also a story of feminism, rags to riches story and male chauvinism. There was so much to like about the book, especially the strong female lead, Alka. I did not like the ending or the justification for it. Like I mentioned before, certain acts are unforgivable and we as women should stop accepting less than we deserve.
If you like romance with a lot of drama and tragedy, you should go for it.
- Afreen Khalil
April 8, 2023
I did enjoy the book even if I have more bad things to say than good ( Ambivalency at its best!)
This is my one sitting book in some time now. I clocked myself and it was 2 hours 47 minutes! So, Really thanking this one for getting me back on the concentration track :)
What did I like in the book:
1. Description of Coffee Gardens.. I could so totally imagine the coffee plantations and soaking in the scintillating coffee scent!
2. Author tries well to talk of class divide and how so many workers are treated as invisibles without their right to dignity for the work they do
3. I really thought the plot was a decent enough premise to talk of cheating, emotional intimacy, love and compromise.
4. Easy to comprehend writing style. Have to agree that she gets the flow aspect on point
5. I liked the dimension of special needs children and investment parents make in getting them into the normal zone. It is so very close to my heart.
But the problem was that the Author lost the plot midway :
1. Main character is really not worth the reading journey investment ( at least not for me)
2. Ending is useless
3. I think 200+ pages are just a drag.. maybe it could have been a short story ( Personal Opinion)
So, pick it up based on your reading tastes and preferences! Happy Reading!
This is my one sitting book in some time now. I clocked myself and it was 2 hours 47 minutes! So, Really thanking this one for getting me back on the concentration track :)
What did I like in the book:
1. Description of Coffee Gardens.. I could so totally imagine the coffee plantations and soaking in the scintillating coffee scent!
2. Author tries well to talk of class divide and how so many workers are treated as invisibles without their right to dignity for the work they do
3. I really thought the plot was a decent enough premise to talk of cheating, emotional intimacy, love and compromise.
4. Easy to comprehend writing style. Have to agree that she gets the flow aspect on point
5. I liked the dimension of special needs children and investment parents make in getting them into the normal zone. It is so very close to my heart.
But the problem was that the Author lost the plot midway :
1. Main character is really not worth the reading journey investment ( at least not for me)
2. Ending is useless
3. I think 200+ pages are just a drag.. maybe it could have been a short story ( Personal Opinion)
So, pick it up based on your reading tastes and preferences! Happy Reading!
August 19, 2022
After a long time of reading non-fictions and true events, I gave a try to this beautiful fiction book.
Book Review: A Place Called Home
Author:
Publishers:
Points: 8/10
Like many other reviewers, I can also say that it’s a story about secrets, love, society and importance of family and home. Also, it can be said that this is a story of a brave girl named Alka, who fought every social evils and made her way from the windowless servants room to a family owning a grand coffee estate at Sakleshpur. From that time, she started to face social evils and the judgement of “higher-class" people. When she knew about her background, she started studying seriously but unfortunately, got humiliated by her school mates for her background in a birthday party of one of her schoolmate, Harish, who abandoned her after having sex with her because of her social background. But, she never lost her aim to be in a respectable social position. But after reaching that position, she got in grasp of social evils once again. Her husband Subbu betrayed her. But she fought the social evils for the last time and secured her position in her beloved family and home.
This book also describes the story of a man named Krish, whose life got complicated because of his too much attachment to the materialistic world. Who was Mansi's boyfriend but his heart was snatched by Alka and Alka felt true love for the first time. But a tragic twist broke their bond.
What I liked about the book is that this novel described the importance of true love, family and home and described how the “class" based view of our society can be much harmful to anyone’s life. And ofcourse how Alka tackled all of the social evils.
What I disliked about this book is that author had shown Subbu as a religious person as well as a close minded and patriarchal person. This softly indicates that the people, who are attached ttothe Indigenous culture are close minded and patriarchal, which will led to an impact of coloniality in the minds of the readers.
But, if you are interested to read a story of love, family and social evils, you can read this without hesitancy as it is a fast read with a beautiful story.
Book Review: A Place Called Home
Author:
Publishers:
Points: 8/10
Like many other reviewers, I can also say that it’s a story about secrets, love, society and importance of family and home. Also, it can be said that this is a story of a brave girl named Alka, who fought every social evils and made her way from the windowless servants room to a family owning a grand coffee estate at Sakleshpur. From that time, she started to face social evils and the judgement of “higher-class" people. When she knew about her background, she started studying seriously but unfortunately, got humiliated by her school mates for her background in a birthday party of one of her schoolmate, Harish, who abandoned her after having sex with her because of her social background. But, she never lost her aim to be in a respectable social position. But after reaching that position, she got in grasp of social evils once again. Her husband Subbu betrayed her. But she fought the social evils for the last time and secured her position in her beloved family and home.
This book also describes the story of a man named Krish, whose life got complicated because of his too much attachment to the materialistic world. Who was Mansi's boyfriend but his heart was snatched by Alka and Alka felt true love for the first time. But a tragic twist broke their bond.
What I liked about the book is that this novel described the importance of true love, family and home and described how the “class" based view of our society can be much harmful to anyone’s life. And ofcourse how Alka tackled all of the social evils.
What I disliked about this book is that author had shown Subbu as a religious person as well as a close minded and patriarchal person. This softly indicates that the people, who are attached ttothe Indigenous culture are close minded and patriarchal, which will led to an impact of coloniality in the minds of the readers.
But, if you are interested to read a story of love, family and social evils, you can read this without hesitancy as it is a fast read with a beautiful story.
Read
August 29, 2022A Place Called Home
Author: Preeti Shenoy
Published by Harper Collins India
MRP: Rs. 250/-
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 324
Thank you @harpercollinsin for a media copy of the book.
In the book, Alka and her single mother, who dedicated her entire life to working as a maid for Shetty, grew up in a cramped room without a window in the Shetty mansion. There is always a hidden objective when Mrs. Shetty pays for Alka's education from elementary school through college and ensures that she receives an outstanding education. Alka's life was not simple; she endured humiliation due to social class inequalities and was tormented at school. She was annoyed and disgusted by the treatment, so she made the decision to work hard to improve the lives of both her and her mother. She exclusively concentrated on her studies, excelled at them, and was accepted into a reputable university. In college, she made friends, Mansi and Krish, and from here starts the journey of Alka's series of decisions that messed up her life and finally brought her to a place called home.
The narrative jumps back and forth in time and is similar to Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf's stream-of-consciousness style. Alka is currently troubled by gloomy thoughts. The man she once loved has returned, and Alka is unsure of his intentions. To make matters worse or better, her spouse is aware of her secret. Her struggle against her haunting past will determine if she is able to survive.
As for my thoughts on the book? I honestly don’t know if I have any. I generally do not read books of this genre much from contemporary authors, and if I have to put it in a sentence I’d say it’s a breath of fresh air from what I generally read. I do disagree with the author in some places , like Subbu is shown as a religious patriarchal fanatic, who is “villainized” in a way, and while I do agree that such people do exist, but this creates a narrative that all religious/indigenous people very patriarchal.
Author: Preeti Shenoy
Published by Harper Collins India
MRP: Rs. 250/-
Genre: Fiction
No of Pages: 324
Thank you @harpercollinsin for a media copy of the book.
In the book, Alka and her single mother, who dedicated her entire life to working as a maid for Shetty, grew up in a cramped room without a window in the Shetty mansion. There is always a hidden objective when Mrs. Shetty pays for Alka's education from elementary school through college and ensures that she receives an outstanding education. Alka's life was not simple; she endured humiliation due to social class inequalities and was tormented at school. She was annoyed and disgusted by the treatment, so she made the decision to work hard to improve the lives of both her and her mother. She exclusively concentrated on her studies, excelled at them, and was accepted into a reputable university. In college, she made friends, Mansi and Krish, and from here starts the journey of Alka's series of decisions that messed up her life and finally brought her to a place called home.
The narrative jumps back and forth in time and is similar to Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf's stream-of-consciousness style. Alka is currently troubled by gloomy thoughts. The man she once loved has returned, and Alka is unsure of his intentions. To make matters worse or better, her spouse is aware of her secret. Her struggle against her haunting past will determine if she is able to survive.
As for my thoughts on the book? I honestly don’t know if I have any. I generally do not read books of this genre much from contemporary authors, and if I have to put it in a sentence I’d say it’s a breath of fresh air from what I generally read. I do disagree with the author in some places , like Subbu is shown as a religious patriarchal fanatic, who is “villainized” in a way, and while I do agree that such people do exist, but this creates a narrative that all religious/indigenous people very patriarchal.
October 10, 2022
I have read a lot of books but this is first one I didn't like.
The main character didn't know what she wanted all her life even with all that education. She could have achieved anything but she chose to become a stay at house mom which would have been fine if she really liked Subbu. Disappointing ending.
The main character didn't know what she wanted all her life even with all that education. She could have achieved anything but she chose to become a stay at house mom which would have been fine if she really liked Subbu. Disappointing ending.
March 6, 2024
"A Place Called Home" by Preeti Shenoy is a novel that, unfortunately, falls short of expectations. While the language is easy to follow, the book suffers from several notable flaws. Firstly, the plot feels unnecessarily drawn out, with numerous subplots that could have been condensed to create a more cohesive narrative. Additionally, the theme of justified cheating in relationships and marriage is concerning and may leave readers feeling uncomfortable or conflicted. Finally, the fact that some readers including me couldn't complete the book speaks to its inability to fully engage its audience. Overall, while the language is a redeeming quality, "A Place Called Home" ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying reading experience.
July 22, 2022
I've always enjoyed the author's literally prose and her atmospheric setting that she uses for her books and this one is no different. Such a pleasant book to read.
A Place Called Home follows Alka's story from being a servant's daughter to getting married into a nice family. She has secrets that she'd been taking care of, but when they're threatened to come out, Alka is ready to do what it takes to keep her life together.
This is a different story to what Preeti Shenoy usually delivers, however written in a smooth fashion. Emotional and multi-layered, A Place Called Home is a delight to read and I'll always look forward to reading more from this author.
A Place Called Home follows Alka's story from being a servant's daughter to getting married into a nice family. She has secrets that she'd been taking care of, but when they're threatened to come out, Alka is ready to do what it takes to keep her life together.
This is a different story to what Preeti Shenoy usually delivers, however written in a smooth fashion. Emotional and multi-layered, A Place Called Home is a delight to read and I'll always look forward to reading more from this author.
July 7, 2023
A Place Called Home
-Preeti Shenoy
Preeti Shenoy never disappoints me with her writing. This one also I loved.
Most disgusting characters were Mrs. Shetty and Subbu🤮. I didn't like them at all. Why the hell on earth Alka got married to Subbu! She and Krish were so cute together 😍.
Anyways, it was a good light read😃.
Rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
-Preeti Shenoy
Preeti Shenoy never disappoints me with her writing. This one also I loved.
Most disgusting characters were Mrs. Shetty and Subbu🤮. I didn't like them at all. Why the hell on earth Alka got married to Subbu! She and Krish were so cute together 😍.
Anyways, it was a good light read😃.
Rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
October 6, 2022
One time read
November 9, 2024
While I did finish this in one sitting last night, I can't say I enjoyed this! I found the main character really annoying and was disappointed with the ending.
July 24, 2022
Great plot, well written.
December 5, 2024
This is a new release, I have always been pulled by Preeti Shenoy books - something about her writing pulls me in - I have 4 books of her - physical ones that says something, this one did too.
I am experiencing a similar situation like Alka - without the complications of few things - just a lot of small issues mixed in which complicated the pot instead of binding things up.
What struck me the most was about secrets - people tend to make decisions alone based on their situations - it might look right then but it might not be too - its all based on the character markup of the person - how he or she had to face the problem in the past - alone or with people in the mix.
Alka is a very different person from her mother - she deals and percieves things differently, so her thought process was very understandable, which made me root for all her decisions done till the last page,
I dont feel like talking about the other characters as it felt it was all about her, yes they are important too but their problems are never important to dominate her senses, and that she showed in her strength of character.
All in all a very cryptic book which honed on to the message that it is all about you, you take ownership for yourself and make the right decisions bcoz you know your situation the best.
I am experiencing a similar situation like Alka - without the complications of few things - just a lot of small issues mixed in which complicated the pot instead of binding things up.
What struck me the most was about secrets - people tend to make decisions alone based on their situations - it might look right then but it might not be too - its all based on the character markup of the person - how he or she had to face the problem in the past - alone or with people in the mix.
Alka is a very different person from her mother - she deals and percieves things differently, so her thought process was very understandable, which made me root for all her decisions done till the last page,
I dont feel like talking about the other characters as it felt it was all about her, yes they are important too but their problems are never important to dominate her senses, and that she showed in her strength of character.
All in all a very cryptic book which honed on to the message that it is all about you, you take ownership for yourself and make the right decisions bcoz you know your situation the best.
August 25, 2022
"We don't always get what we want. That does not mean we are not good enough."
A Place Called Home is my first read by Preeti Shenoy. It felt like an easy flowing book which sucks you into itself in such a manner that I didn't realise that I was a 100 pages in really soon. It is written in a lucid and engaging manner that I could feel myself being in the coffee estate and exploring it with the author's words. It's also a book about relationships and fighting for what is yours.
As the story progressed it raised different questions in my mind about people, society, people's double standards etc. The story and characters make you question some of your beliefs and capture your mind with them. I liked how Alka's character is written and grows throughout the story. Special emphasis on how it is shown that Subhu and Krish are too different despite being from the same family, which shows how families are and each person grows differently despite growing up with the same people.
Overall, I liked reading the book and it was a different reading experience for me. If you like reading books by relationships do pick this up.
A Place Called Home is my first read by Preeti Shenoy. It felt like an easy flowing book which sucks you into itself in such a manner that I didn't realise that I was a 100 pages in really soon. It is written in a lucid and engaging manner that I could feel myself being in the coffee estate and exploring it with the author's words. It's also a book about relationships and fighting for what is yours.
As the story progressed it raised different questions in my mind about people, society, people's double standards etc. The story and characters make you question some of your beliefs and capture your mind with them. I liked how Alka's character is written and grows throughout the story. Special emphasis on how it is shown that Subhu and Krish are too different despite being from the same family, which shows how families are and each person grows differently despite growing up with the same people.
Overall, I liked reading the book and it was a different reading experience for me. If you like reading books by relationships do pick this up.
January 4, 2025
# Plot and Character Development
"A Place Called Home" by Preeti Shenoy is a compelling narrative that delves into the life of Alka, a young girl from a humble background, and her journey through various life challenges. The story is rich in themes of family, relationships, social stigma, and the quest for identity and home.
- Alka's Journey: The protagonist, Alka, lives in a cramped servant’s room in Mrs. Shetty’s luxurious house in Delhi, where her mother works as a maid. Alka's determination to escape her difficult circumstances through education and hard work is inspiring. Her character arc is well-developed, showing her growth from a vulnerable girl to a strong and fearless woman.
# Themes and Social Commentary
The book explores several significant themes that resonate deeply with readers:
- Social Stigma and Class Divide: The novel highlights the harsh realities of social class differences and the stigma associated with being from a lower socio-economic background. Alka's experiences at school and her later life reflect the societal pressures and judgments she faces.
- Family and Relationships: The story emphasizes the importance of family and friendships. Alka's relationship with her mother is particularly poignant, and her friendships with Manasi and Krish add depth to the narrative. The complexities of romantic relationships, especially the secret relationship between Alka and Krish, and the subsequent marriages, are well-portrayed.
- Identity and Home: The central theme of finding one's home and identity is beautifully woven throughout the book. Alka's search for a place where she can be herself, without the burden of secrets and societal expectations, is a powerful and relatable theme.
# Writing Style and Narrative Structure
Preeti Shenoy's writing style is a significant strength of the book:
- Engaging and Simple Language: The author's use of simple, lucid language makes the book an easy and quick read. The narrative flows smoothly, even with the time leaps, which are handled neatly to avoid confusion.
- Vivid Descriptions: The descriptions of the coffee estate in Sakleshpur are vivid and immersive, allowing readers to visualize the setting clearly. The author's ability to paint a picture with words enhances the reading experience.
# Best Parts and What I Loved
Several aspects of the book stand out as particularly noteworthy:
- Character of Alka: Alka's character development is one of the best parts of the book. Her journey from a vulnerable girl to a strong, independent woman is inspiring and relatable. Readers appreciated her growth and the way she tackles the challenges in her life.
- Relationship Dynamics: The relationships in the book, especially between Alka and her mother, and the friendships with Manasi and Krish, are well-portrayed and engaging. The complexities of these relationships add depth to the story.
- Social Commentary: The book's exploration of social stigma, class differences, and the impact of societal expectations on individuals is thought-provoking. Readers appreciated how these themes were handled sensitively yet realistically.
- Ending and Closure: The ending of the book, though sometimes criticized for being disappointing, provides a kind of "homecoming" for Alka. It ties up the loose ends of her life, allowing her to confront her past and find peace in her present. This closure is satisfying for many readers.
# Criticisms and Areas for Improvement
While the book is generally well-received, there are some criticisms:
- Character Development of Male Characters: I felt that the male characters, such as Krish and Subbu, had a lot to learn before committing to marriage, and their development could have been more thorough.
# Conclusion
"A Place Called Home" by Preeti Shenoy is a captivating and emotionally charged novel that explores deep themes of identity, family, and relationships. The book's strengths lie in its engaging narrative, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking social commentary. While it may have some minor flaws, the overall reading experience is enriching and memorable.
For readers who enjoy stories about strong women, family dynamics, and the journey of self-discovery, this book is highly recommended. Preeti Shenoy's writing style ensures that the story is both easy to follow and deeply engaging, making it a compelling read from start to finish.
"A Place Called Home" by Preeti Shenoy is a compelling narrative that delves into the life of Alka, a young girl from a humble background, and her journey through various life challenges. The story is rich in themes of family, relationships, social stigma, and the quest for identity and home.
- Alka's Journey: The protagonist, Alka, lives in a cramped servant’s room in Mrs. Shetty’s luxurious house in Delhi, where her mother works as a maid. Alka's determination to escape her difficult circumstances through education and hard work is inspiring. Her character arc is well-developed, showing her growth from a vulnerable girl to a strong and fearless woman.
# Themes and Social Commentary
The book explores several significant themes that resonate deeply with readers:
- Social Stigma and Class Divide: The novel highlights the harsh realities of social class differences and the stigma associated with being from a lower socio-economic background. Alka's experiences at school and her later life reflect the societal pressures and judgments she faces.
- Family and Relationships: The story emphasizes the importance of family and friendships. Alka's relationship with her mother is particularly poignant, and her friendships with Manasi and Krish add depth to the narrative. The complexities of romantic relationships, especially the secret relationship between Alka and Krish, and the subsequent marriages, are well-portrayed.
- Identity and Home: The central theme of finding one's home and identity is beautifully woven throughout the book. Alka's search for a place where she can be herself, without the burden of secrets and societal expectations, is a powerful and relatable theme.
# Writing Style and Narrative Structure
Preeti Shenoy's writing style is a significant strength of the book:
- Engaging and Simple Language: The author's use of simple, lucid language makes the book an easy and quick read. The narrative flows smoothly, even with the time leaps, which are handled neatly to avoid confusion.
- Vivid Descriptions: The descriptions of the coffee estate in Sakleshpur are vivid and immersive, allowing readers to visualize the setting clearly. The author's ability to paint a picture with words enhances the reading experience.
# Best Parts and What I Loved
Several aspects of the book stand out as particularly noteworthy:
- Character of Alka: Alka's character development is one of the best parts of the book. Her journey from a vulnerable girl to a strong, independent woman is inspiring and relatable. Readers appreciated her growth and the way she tackles the challenges in her life.
- Relationship Dynamics: The relationships in the book, especially between Alka and her mother, and the friendships with Manasi and Krish, are well-portrayed and engaging. The complexities of these relationships add depth to the story.
- Social Commentary: The book's exploration of social stigma, class differences, and the impact of societal expectations on individuals is thought-provoking. Readers appreciated how these themes were handled sensitively yet realistically.
- Ending and Closure: The ending of the book, though sometimes criticized for being disappointing, provides a kind of "homecoming" for Alka. It ties up the loose ends of her life, allowing her to confront her past and find peace in her present. This closure is satisfying for many readers.
# Criticisms and Areas for Improvement
While the book is generally well-received, there are some criticisms:
- Character Development of Male Characters: I felt that the male characters, such as Krish and Subbu, had a lot to learn before committing to marriage, and their development could have been more thorough.
# Conclusion
"A Place Called Home" by Preeti Shenoy is a captivating and emotionally charged novel that explores deep themes of identity, family, and relationships. The book's strengths lie in its engaging narrative, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking social commentary. While it may have some minor flaws, the overall reading experience is enriching and memorable.
For readers who enjoy stories about strong women, family dynamics, and the journey of self-discovery, this book is highly recommended. Preeti Shenoy's writing style ensures that the story is both easy to follow and deeply engaging, making it a compelling read from start to finish.
April 20, 2025
A harmless love story!
Harmless, because it's an easy read, it does not take much time to read. In the time that needed to be invested to read it, I did not feel like I was cheated or that it was completely devoid of an engaging storyline.
Also, harmless because it did not feel wow - never did I feel like the story would be etched in my mind.
Heck, in the first half, I immensely disliked the central character, Alka. In the second half, either I got used to her or she was subdued a bit - anyway, my hate simmered.
It's a fairy tale story set in today's world. It is about Alka, the daughter of a 24x7 live-in maid to a wealthy Delhi housewife, Mrs Shetty. Fairy tale because of the narrative liberties, real world because the obstacles that Alka faces are of today's world.
So, Alka gets sent to the same school as the housewife's daughter (Why? Alka could have studied in any one of the multitude of schools and the story would collapse a bit). But Alka studies in the same school as her employer's daughter, and she gets handed down her grown-out clothes, and she stays in a windowless room with her mother. But she's simmering with anger at the unfairness that she needs to do housework while Tanvi, Mrs Shetty's daughter, does not.
And she does not like the world to know of her poverty. So, she starts telling people that her employer is her mother while she hates her to the bone. Anyways, because we are told that Alka is Mrs Shetty's charity project, she organises a trust fund so that she can postgraduate degree. Alka's mother dies, and she loses her will to live. But, she pulls herself back with the help of a very close friend, Manasi, who makes it her project to give her as much space as possible and yet tries to include her in every fun activity. As she gets back to her normal self, she has an intense fling with Krish, the boyfriend of Manasi, as Manasi is trying to look after her mom, who is admitted to the ICU.
Meanwhile, Alka has also charmed her way into the hearts of Krish's mother and elder brother, who own a sprawling coffee estate with its waterfalls and mountains. Krish, though, has gotten Manasi pregnant, so Alka behaves like she does in these scenarios - she breaks up with Krish and marries his older brother, Subbu. She does not itch to work - she does not think of career, corporate stuff, etc. Instead, she has 2 daughters while harbouring love for Krish, who does everything in his power to stay away from his elder brother and Alka's life. Krish marries Manasi, and Alka does not even talk to her once. So much for her friendship and gratitude.
But, somehow Subbu - Alka's husband gets to know about her actual background. Alka loses her shit and becomes fiery about why does caste and societal hierarchy matter. Yeah, Alka is the same girl who hid her background by claiming her mother is Mrs Shetty.
Well - I do not want to reveal the end. But, Alka has a face-off with Mrs Shetty, and she lambasts her. She then searches for her mother's best friend - Renuka (in her only childhood visit to Renuka's place - Alka said to her mom that she does not want to ever see her or set foot in her place because Alka does not like poor people or poverty). But she does find her, and lo and behold her mom has kept something for her along with a letter.
As a maid, Alka's mom was able to save more than 10 lacs in FD and insurance for Alka in 2005 - think around 30 lacs in today's time.
Coming back, Alka finds strength in that letter and seeks her husband - Subbu to reconcile.
Like I said - harmless love story :D
4-star because ridiculous as it sounds, it was entertaining and I had to know how the story ended.
Harmless, because it's an easy read, it does not take much time to read. In the time that needed to be invested to read it, I did not feel like I was cheated or that it was completely devoid of an engaging storyline.
Also, harmless because it did not feel wow - never did I feel like the story would be etched in my mind.
Heck, in the first half, I immensely disliked the central character, Alka. In the second half, either I got used to her or she was subdued a bit - anyway, my hate simmered.
It's a fairy tale story set in today's world. It is about Alka, the daughter of a 24x7 live-in maid to a wealthy Delhi housewife, Mrs Shetty. Fairy tale because of the narrative liberties, real world because the obstacles that Alka faces are of today's world.
So, Alka gets sent to the same school as the housewife's daughter (Why? Alka could have studied in any one of the multitude of schools and the story would collapse a bit). But Alka studies in the same school as her employer's daughter, and she gets handed down her grown-out clothes, and she stays in a windowless room with her mother. But she's simmering with anger at the unfairness that she needs to do housework while Tanvi, Mrs Shetty's daughter, does not.
And she does not like the world to know of her poverty. So, she starts telling people that her employer is her mother while she hates her to the bone. Anyways, because we are told that Alka is Mrs Shetty's charity project, she organises a trust fund so that she can postgraduate degree. Alka's mother dies, and she loses her will to live. But, she pulls herself back with the help of a very close friend, Manasi, who makes it her project to give her as much space as possible and yet tries to include her in every fun activity. As she gets back to her normal self, she has an intense fling with Krish, the boyfriend of Manasi, as Manasi is trying to look after her mom, who is admitted to the ICU.
Meanwhile, Alka has also charmed her way into the hearts of Krish's mother and elder brother, who own a sprawling coffee estate with its waterfalls and mountains. Krish, though, has gotten Manasi pregnant, so Alka behaves like she does in these scenarios - she breaks up with Krish and marries his older brother, Subbu. She does not itch to work - she does not think of career, corporate stuff, etc. Instead, she has 2 daughters while harbouring love for Krish, who does everything in his power to stay away from his elder brother and Alka's life. Krish marries Manasi, and Alka does not even talk to her once. So much for her friendship and gratitude.
But, somehow Subbu - Alka's husband gets to know about her actual background. Alka loses her shit and becomes fiery about why does caste and societal hierarchy matter. Yeah, Alka is the same girl who hid her background by claiming her mother is Mrs Shetty.
Well - I do not want to reveal the end. But, Alka has a face-off with Mrs Shetty, and she lambasts her. She then searches for her mother's best friend - Renuka (in her only childhood visit to Renuka's place - Alka said to her mom that she does not want to ever see her or set foot in her place because Alka does not like poor people or poverty). But she does find her, and lo and behold her mom has kept something for her along with a letter.
As a maid, Alka's mom was able to save more than 10 lacs in FD and insurance for Alka in 2005 - think around 30 lacs in today's time.
Coming back, Alka finds strength in that letter and seeks her husband - Subbu to reconcile.
Like I said - harmless love story :D
4-star because ridiculous as it sounds, it was entertaining and I had to know how the story ended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2022
Preeti’s writing has always been powerful, and as with all her books, this book has layers that keep you hooked from the very first page to the last. The book explores the idea of family, relationships and the idea of home and how they can mean different things to different people. The first half of the book moves at a pace that slowly and steadily builds up Alka’s character and life, and sets the tone of the plot for the second half. Preeti explores a variety of ideas and weaves it into the plot. From social stigma to the social idea of “marriage”, the characters in the book endure all of that and that is the story that emerges from the struggles and their reactions to it. When we come to the second half, the pace of the book picks up and things start falling into place and at times more than one you have an aha! moment as your mind goes back to that one tiny bit of information that came across in the first half. The descriptions in the story are vivid and paint a wonderful picture of events as they occur, especially the coffee estate and it was as if I was walking into the estate myself, and to be honest, this has inspired me to now take a vacation to Sakleshpur as soon as possible. Most importantly though, as we come to the end of the story, the title starts making sense, and not just in the obvious manner, but for multiple characters as they explore the idea of home and what it means to them, and while not giving out any spoilers, the visual comparison that Alka makes is such a wonderful summary of the idea being shared.
While the plot of the book is powerful, the characters are equally important, specially the three main people who form the crux of the plot. Alka’s character has been crafted in detail, as we see her grow up as the story moves two decades in time. Preeti makes clear distinctions in her life, and the 4 parts of the book are very clearly marked. From innocent questions as a kid, to exploring her life as a teenager, her life as an independent woman and then her life in the estate, the character grows leaps and bounds and yet there is a certain part of her character that keeps you intrigued. I liked her steadfastness and her perseverance to achieve what she dreamt of. Coming to Krish and Subbu, I liked how they have been created as opposites, not just physically, but emotionally as well. When the contrasts emerge, you realise how their characters have been subtly giving hints to the buildup. Apart from our three primary characters, I liked how the other characters have been built in to provide context to the plot and how they have been detailed just enough to make fiction seem real.
Detailed analysis done, I have a few more observations that make this book a worthy read. The first and the foremost is the focus on food and how Preeti has built in the local cuisine and I believe that this was something very important for me, specially to build up the second part of the story. Secondly, the quotes that serve as section dividers are quite apt and set the tone of the section perfectly.
While the plot of the book is powerful, the characters are equally important, specially the three main people who form the crux of the plot. Alka’s character has been crafted in detail, as we see her grow up as the story moves two decades in time. Preeti makes clear distinctions in her life, and the 4 parts of the book are very clearly marked. From innocent questions as a kid, to exploring her life as a teenager, her life as an independent woman and then her life in the estate, the character grows leaps and bounds and yet there is a certain part of her character that keeps you intrigued. I liked her steadfastness and her perseverance to achieve what she dreamt of. Coming to Krish and Subbu, I liked how they have been created as opposites, not just physically, but emotionally as well. When the contrasts emerge, you realise how their characters have been subtly giving hints to the buildup. Apart from our three primary characters, I liked how the other characters have been built in to provide context to the plot and how they have been detailed just enough to make fiction seem real.
Detailed analysis done, I have a few more observations that make this book a worthy read. The first and the foremost is the focus on food and how Preeti has built in the local cuisine and I believe that this was something very important for me, specially to build up the second part of the story. Secondly, the quotes that serve as section dividers are quite apt and set the tone of the section perfectly.
July 30, 2025
🍁Book:- A Place Called Home
🍁Author:- Preeti Shenoy
🍁Publication:- Harper Collins India
🍁Printed Price:- Rs. 250/-
"A thousand laughing suns are in your eyes. A thousand crying stars in mine."
- Ahmad Shamloo
Modernity and advancement have been commenced only in science, technology and verbosity in the so-called modern world but if a woman's life is shattered because of some bogus societal norms, can we call it anything but medieval age?
Alka, the protagonist of the novel, is raised and has spent her childhood and teenage in Mrs. Shetty's house as her mother works there as a maid. The mother-daughter duo has faced numerous embarrassments in each and every field on every single day followed by some obscene humiliation and insults for their class. Though they have paid off every debt to the mistress, the maid has never received kindness from the family. Alka is so pavid of the outside world that she has hidden her true entity sincerely in order to find a place called home and a bit of comfort from close people.
She met Manasi and Krish in her college days and it was the most cherished time period of Alka's life. Getting a beautiful friend like Manasi is every girl's dream but probably the Almighty hasn't written anything smooth in Alka's fate. The trio visited Krish's hometown in Sakleshpur and the script of many people's lives was taking a turn from there. All was going well by managing and adjusting emltions and equations of relationships until the truth of Alka's past came into daylight. Will Alka survive from the baseless questions of society and live peacefully for the rest of her life? The book is perfectly paced and has enough engaging hooks to attract the readers to the last page.
I have loved Alka's mother, that is, Seema's character very much and I am trying to provide a glimpse of his modern mind through this quote - "I think you should be in charge of your life. You should go to Bangalore and study if that is what will get you a good job. It will be a different world, and you will learn a lot more living on your own. It will prepare you to be independent. Forget about marriage till you complete your studies."
The characters are portrayed in a balanced way but I wish to explore more of Manasi's characteristics. The vivid description of the environment of the coffee estate is really soothing. As I am eager to know further about the characters, I will complete it's sequel soon.
"How beautiful to find a heart that loves you, without asking you for anything, but to be okay."
- Khalil Gibran
🍁Author:- Preeti Shenoy
🍁Publication:- Harper Collins India
🍁Printed Price:- Rs. 250/-
"A thousand laughing suns are in your eyes. A thousand crying stars in mine."
- Ahmad Shamloo
Modernity and advancement have been commenced only in science, technology and verbosity in the so-called modern world but if a woman's life is shattered because of some bogus societal norms, can we call it anything but medieval age?
Alka, the protagonist of the novel, is raised and has spent her childhood and teenage in Mrs. Shetty's house as her mother works there as a maid. The mother-daughter duo has faced numerous embarrassments in each and every field on every single day followed by some obscene humiliation and insults for their class. Though they have paid off every debt to the mistress, the maid has never received kindness from the family. Alka is so pavid of the outside world that she has hidden her true entity sincerely in order to find a place called home and a bit of comfort from close people.
She met Manasi and Krish in her college days and it was the most cherished time period of Alka's life. Getting a beautiful friend like Manasi is every girl's dream but probably the Almighty hasn't written anything smooth in Alka's fate. The trio visited Krish's hometown in Sakleshpur and the script of many people's lives was taking a turn from there. All was going well by managing and adjusting emltions and equations of relationships until the truth of Alka's past came into daylight. Will Alka survive from the baseless questions of society and live peacefully for the rest of her life? The book is perfectly paced and has enough engaging hooks to attract the readers to the last page.
I have loved Alka's mother, that is, Seema's character very much and I am trying to provide a glimpse of his modern mind through this quote - "I think you should be in charge of your life. You should go to Bangalore and study if that is what will get you a good job. It will be a different world, and you will learn a lot more living on your own. It will prepare you to be independent. Forget about marriage till you complete your studies."
The characters are portrayed in a balanced way but I wish to explore more of Manasi's characteristics. The vivid description of the environment of the coffee estate is really soothing. As I am eager to know further about the characters, I will complete it's sequel soon.
"How beautiful to find a heart that loves you, without asking you for anything, but to be okay."
- Khalil Gibran
August 3, 2022
This book is about the story of Alka, who grows up in the Shetty mansion, helping as a maid along with her single mother. Mrs. Shetty made sure that Alka goes to the same school as her daughter, but only with a hidden agenda. She gets humiliated and betrayed starting from the tender age of 12. She fights her way through to become successful in her higher studies. In her college, she meets Mansi and her boyfriend, krish who make her life meaningful again, only to mess it up herself. She later makes a series of decisions that she feels are right and appropriate to keep her going. But, are they really?
Pros: I liked how all the characters in the book were morally grey. Even the protagonist was not completely perfect. She made her fair share of mistakes.
I liked how the author tried to keep the language simple and straightforward.
I also liked the inclusion of the subject of domestic abuse and how the author writes about the problems a woman goes through her entire life.
It was a realistic story. It could have been anyone’s life.
Cons: So having said all this, I still had so many problems with the book.
Firstly, the ending! The plot-line had a lot of potential. Alka could have turned into a role model to many women out there. But simply the author decided to make the character a mediocre person. I was liking bits and pieces of the book until I read that ending.
I could only feel for Mansi thoughout the book. I was never able to relate to Alka even though she was the main character. I only liked Mansi’s character in the book though she was only in a few chapters and hated how she was made to look like a monster towards the end.
SO SOME SPOILERS HERE!!
Mansi really deserved much better friends than Alka and Krish.
Alka would be my most hated protagonist ever made. She did horrible things to her friend, though she was the only person who gave her so much love after her mother. She didn’t even consider Mansi’s life. All that mattered to Alka was her own struggles.
And the same age old concept of accepting domestic abuse as low-key normal and blaming a woman for cheating on her has to stop. I had previously read ‘it ends with us’ and did not enjoy it at all. After reading this book, I felt the former was slightly better than this.
My review: 3/5.
Pros: I liked how all the characters in the book were morally grey. Even the protagonist was not completely perfect. She made her fair share of mistakes.
I liked how the author tried to keep the language simple and straightforward.
I also liked the inclusion of the subject of domestic abuse and how the author writes about the problems a woman goes through her entire life.
It was a realistic story. It could have been anyone’s life.
Cons: So having said all this, I still had so many problems with the book.
Firstly, the ending! The plot-line had a lot of potential. Alka could have turned into a role model to many women out there. But simply the author decided to make the character a mediocre person. I was liking bits and pieces of the book until I read that ending.
I could only feel for Mansi thoughout the book. I was never able to relate to Alka even though she was the main character. I only liked Mansi’s character in the book though she was only in a few chapters and hated how she was made to look like a monster towards the end.
SO SOME SPOILERS HERE!!
Mansi really deserved much better friends than Alka and Krish.
Alka would be my most hated protagonist ever made. She did horrible things to her friend, though she was the only person who gave her so much love after her mother. She didn’t even consider Mansi’s life. All that mattered to Alka was her own struggles.
And the same age old concept of accepting domestic abuse as low-key normal and blaming a woman for cheating on her has to stop. I had previously read ‘it ends with us’ and did not enjoy it at all. After reading this book, I felt the former was slightly better than this.
My review: 3/5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2022
✨A place called home by Preeti Shenoy ✨ - A book Review
Genre: Fiction
A beautiful heartwarming story that I read this week. I wanted to read this book from the time it was released and I am finally able to do that.
It's a great read! Loved each and every character from the novel and was very happy to read the climax😇
The whole story revolves around Alka, a young ambitious woman whose secrets leaves her in trying situations and the challenges that she is put forth in life and her path to find a place which she can call her 'HOME'.
The bond between a mother a daughter is very well represented here.
The description of magnificent coffee estates where the most part of the plot is set in is written so wonderfully by the author with keen details that it wants me to go to those areas once in lifetime. The nativeness are highlighted by mentioning about Namma kannada language, karnataka's culture, coffee plantation, the rich cuisine all of which gives that warmth while we read especially being a kannadiga and a Bengalurian😁
Some of the things made me emotional while reading the book.As a lover of letters, I always enjoy reading it and also writing it to my near and dear ones. Reading Alka 's mother's letter to Alka in one of the chapters, made me remember something from my personal life that brought tears to my eyes.
There are a few aspects I really appreciate in the book and would say it's a learning for me and to anyone who reads the book.
💫To be kind to everyone as they all are fighting in their respective lives
💫To never look down on any profession and to respect each individual irrespective of their class, social status
💫 To fight for our rights and never give up on what we want
💫To not get disheartened if we don't get what we want as universe might have better plans for us
💫 Life is too short and anything can happen at anytime..keep checking on your dear ones🥺Talk to them heart out and respect everyone 's emotions.
Who is Alka? What's her secret? Did she finally found her home? What's so special about her mother? What was in the letter her mother wrote to her?
Read the book to know more 😊
Genre: Fiction
A beautiful heartwarming story that I read this week. I wanted to read this book from the time it was released and I am finally able to do that.
It's a great read! Loved each and every character from the novel and was very happy to read the climax😇
The whole story revolves around Alka, a young ambitious woman whose secrets leaves her in trying situations and the challenges that she is put forth in life and her path to find a place which she can call her 'HOME'.
The bond between a mother a daughter is very well represented here.
The description of magnificent coffee estates where the most part of the plot is set in is written so wonderfully by the author with keen details that it wants me to go to those areas once in lifetime. The nativeness are highlighted by mentioning about Namma kannada language, karnataka's culture, coffee plantation, the rich cuisine all of which gives that warmth while we read especially being a kannadiga and a Bengalurian😁
Some of the things made me emotional while reading the book.As a lover of letters, I always enjoy reading it and also writing it to my near and dear ones. Reading Alka 's mother's letter to Alka in one of the chapters, made me remember something from my personal life that brought tears to my eyes.
There are a few aspects I really appreciate in the book and would say it's a learning for me and to anyone who reads the book.
💫To be kind to everyone as they all are fighting in their respective lives
💫To never look down on any profession and to respect each individual irrespective of their class, social status
💫 To fight for our rights and never give up on what we want
💫To not get disheartened if we don't get what we want as universe might have better plans for us
💫 Life is too short and anything can happen at anytime..keep checking on your dear ones🥺Talk to them heart out and respect everyone 's emotions.
Who is Alka? What's her secret? Did she finally found her home? What's so special about her mother? What was in the letter her mother wrote to her?
Read the book to know more 😊
July 14, 2022
• “And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it”.
• Moving forward in life gives a sense of relief to us, as it brings an end to all the difficulties faced by us initially, however moving forward connotes having a linear approach in one’s life, and getting the required balance in life creates a diversion that leads us to our past entailing realizations and revelations. The 301 pages long the book at hand features mainly the life of Alka whose mother is a maid at Mrs. Shetty’s luxurious house and the later stages of her life offer her a sense of respite as she has a comfortable life as the years followed, however, many revelations await her. The book in totality features 30 Chapters and they have been divided into 3 Parts. The first part is titled “leaving Home” which as one rightly surmises feature the present life of Alka and the aspect of secrets is very well laid down here by the author for some are harmless while others weigh down on us and to an extent become us and here Alka goes along a sense of introspection on a day when it was not raining. The next chapter leads the readers to 1981 and the origins of Alka and at the same time reflects upon the stark contrast between Mrs. Shetty’s life and that of Alka’s. As the chapters go further, a streamlined approach is followed by the author where she lays down all the relevant and important facets of Alka’s life and the titles of each chapter show that a sense of transition is made in each part finally she reaches a place which she calls as a home.
• The writing style of the book has been kept simple and very descriptive which keeps the reader engaged with the underlying theme of the book and enables them to be one with the storyline. The plot of the book progresses at a good pace, keeping the readers' attention intact. Thus, the book becomes a must-read for anyone willing to go for an eye-opening and mind-boggling read.
• Moving forward in life gives a sense of relief to us, as it brings an end to all the difficulties faced by us initially, however moving forward connotes having a linear approach in one’s life, and getting the required balance in life creates a diversion that leads us to our past entailing realizations and revelations. The 301 pages long the book at hand features mainly the life of Alka whose mother is a maid at Mrs. Shetty’s luxurious house and the later stages of her life offer her a sense of respite as she has a comfortable life as the years followed, however, many revelations await her. The book in totality features 30 Chapters and they have been divided into 3 Parts. The first part is titled “leaving Home” which as one rightly surmises feature the present life of Alka and the aspect of secrets is very well laid down here by the author for some are harmless while others weigh down on us and to an extent become us and here Alka goes along a sense of introspection on a day when it was not raining. The next chapter leads the readers to 1981 and the origins of Alka and at the same time reflects upon the stark contrast between Mrs. Shetty’s life and that of Alka’s. As the chapters go further, a streamlined approach is followed by the author where she lays down all the relevant and important facets of Alka’s life and the titles of each chapter show that a sense of transition is made in each part finally she reaches a place which she calls as a home.
• The writing style of the book has been kept simple and very descriptive which keeps the reader engaged with the underlying theme of the book and enables them to be one with the storyline. The plot of the book progresses at a good pace, keeping the readers' attention intact. Thus, the book becomes a must-read for anyone willing to go for an eye-opening and mind-boggling read.
August 21, 2022
The class system is an enduring feature of Indian history and persists in its roots in modern society. Indian society is often plagued by rifts and hatred between the so-called "upper class" and "lower class" due to the caste system. Through her new book, "A place called home" "Preeti Shenoy" brings the story of a girl named "Alka" whose whole social class differences influence life decisions.
The book follows the story of Alka, who grows up in a small no window room in the Shetty mansion, along with her single mother, who gave her life working as a maid for Shetty. Mrs. Shetty bears all the expense of Alka's education from school to college and makes sure to give her excellent education; however, there is always a hidden agenda behind it. Alka's life was not easy; she got bullied at school and faced humiliation because of social class differences. She felt frustrated and irritated by the treatment and decided to change her and her mother's lives with hard work. She only focused on her studies, excelled in them, and got admission to a good college. In college, she made friends, Mansi and Krish, and from here starts the journey of Alka's series of decisions that messed up her life and finally brought her to a place called home.
I love Preeti Shenoy's books because she always brings a story that we hear and witnesses around us; however, I felt something is missing with this book. I like several elements in this book, like the portrayal of pain and humiliation an individual faces because of the class system, morally grey characters, who make mistakes, make wrong life decisions, and lie, and include the sensitive topic of domestic abuse and challenges women face.
The thing I missed in the book is that the plot line has a lot of potential to develop Alka's character, and I also wish that Krish deserves closure to his problems. I also find the ending bit predictable and abruptly ended.
Overall, it is a decent read.
The book follows the story of Alka, who grows up in a small no window room in the Shetty mansion, along with her single mother, who gave her life working as a maid for Shetty. Mrs. Shetty bears all the expense of Alka's education from school to college and makes sure to give her excellent education; however, there is always a hidden agenda behind it. Alka's life was not easy; she got bullied at school and faced humiliation because of social class differences. She felt frustrated and irritated by the treatment and decided to change her and her mother's lives with hard work. She only focused on her studies, excelled in them, and got admission to a good college. In college, she made friends, Mansi and Krish, and from here starts the journey of Alka's series of decisions that messed up her life and finally brought her to a place called home.
I love Preeti Shenoy's books because she always brings a story that we hear and witnesses around us; however, I felt something is missing with this book. I like several elements in this book, like the portrayal of pain and humiliation an individual faces because of the class system, morally grey characters, who make mistakes, make wrong life decisions, and lie, and include the sensitive topic of domestic abuse and challenges women face.
The thing I missed in the book is that the plot line has a lot of potential to develop Alka's character, and I also wish that Krish deserves closure to his problems. I also find the ending bit predictable and abruptly ended.
Overall, it is a decent read.
December 14, 2024
Name : A Place Called Home
Author : Preeti Shenoy
Genre : Contemporary
My 💭:
[13/12/24 8.45PM]
Whew I had missed the rush of binge reading and finishing a book on the same day! That too, on a work day while working and attending calls parallely 😎 *pats my own back*
This book has been on my TBR for quite some time. I remember this book being all over on my feed in 2022 when it was released. Knowing author 's awesome writing style, I knew this book will be as addictive as her previous books. I've been in a depressive mood lately, so, on a whim, I decided to pick this up.
The story was NOT what I expected! Well, in a way I should have seen it coming since the author's stories are never one dimensional. So, at the first chapter, I thought this book is about a love triangle. Then when the flashbacks started, I realised that it was, but not in the way I was assuming. I loved the protagonist Alka, seriously my respect for her kept growing with the chapters. Her struggles in childhood as "the maid's daughter" and the constant racism and classism she faced because of it made me sympathise for her so much. Then, once her college life started, she finally made her first friends group with Manasi and Krish and her first experience at a forbidden first love - it kind of reminded me of the movie 'Cocktail'. I liked Krish as a decent guy with good morals but tbh he pissed me off with how he handled the whole thing - like why was he continuing to be physically intimate with someone he doesn't love anymore? Why can't people end a relationship if there's no love anymore instead of cheating? Talk about double standards UGH. Even I would have done what Alka did. Self respect > love, always.
The story had a very valuable teaching - fight for what you want. You have to read the story till the last chapter to understand this properly. I absolutely can't wait to read the next book and see what is in store for Alka. Honestly I'm rooting for #them ! 🥹
Author : Preeti Shenoy
Genre : Contemporary
My 💭:
[13/12/24 8.45PM]
Whew I had missed the rush of binge reading and finishing a book on the same day! That too, on a work day while working and attending calls parallely 😎 *pats my own back*
This book has been on my TBR for quite some time. I remember this book being all over on my feed in 2022 when it was released. Knowing author 's awesome writing style, I knew this book will be as addictive as her previous books. I've been in a depressive mood lately, so, on a whim, I decided to pick this up.
The story was NOT what I expected! Well, in a way I should have seen it coming since the author's stories are never one dimensional. So, at the first chapter, I thought this book is about a love triangle. Then when the flashbacks started, I realised that it was, but not in the way I was assuming. I loved the protagonist Alka, seriously my respect for her kept growing with the chapters. Her struggles in childhood as "the maid's daughter" and the constant racism and classism she faced because of it made me sympathise for her so much. Then, once her college life started, she finally made her first friends group with Manasi and Krish and her first experience at a forbidden first love - it kind of reminded me of the movie 'Cocktail'. I liked Krish as a decent guy with good morals but tbh he pissed me off with how he handled the whole thing - like why was he continuing to be physically intimate with someone he doesn't love anymore? Why can't people end a relationship if there's no love anymore instead of cheating? Talk about double standards UGH. Even I would have done what Alka did. Self respect > love, always.
The story had a very valuable teaching - fight for what you want. You have to read the story till the last chapter to understand this properly. I absolutely can't wait to read the next book and see what is in store for Alka. Honestly I'm rooting for #them ! 🥹
July 6, 2022
All that mattered was where she was born. She would never belong. No matter what she did, she would never be one of them.
Pages - 309
#PLOT
Alka and her mother Seema work as maid's at Mrs Shetty's house in Delhi. What Alka dosen't like is the way Mrs Shetty treats her and her mother. Even though Mrs Shetty sent Alka to one of the best school as her daughter. Alka always questioned her mother why they were treated differently. She was ashamed of her background because of the insults she had heard about her social status.
When Alka's mother dies, she is left all alone and that's when she marries Subbu, owner of coffee plantation and she finds motherly love in Subbu's mother Anandi. Just when Alka feels she has finally found her home the secrets from her past are exposed.
Will Alka fight back to kill the demons of her past? Will she again have a place which she can call it her home?
#bookreview
This is my first book from this author although i have heard good things about her books and no doubt this one also is an excellent read. The theme of the book is family, love, life, society, hope, dreams, closure. The story is very beautiful and the readers will surely relate to it. The flow is smooth, its fast paced and will keep you hooked. Characters are convincing and feel genuine. The story shows the reality of life. The emotions and the drama will pull you in and you can feel it what the characters feel. It addresses the social issues like discrimination based on caste and status. Whether your past or social status matters is what forms the crux of this story.
I found the ending a bit rushed rushed. I also wanted to know what happens with krish but that part was left unfinished. Other than that it is an engaging read.
Recommended
Pages - 309
#PLOT
Alka and her mother Seema work as maid's at Mrs Shetty's house in Delhi. What Alka dosen't like is the way Mrs Shetty treats her and her mother. Even though Mrs Shetty sent Alka to one of the best school as her daughter. Alka always questioned her mother why they were treated differently. She was ashamed of her background because of the insults she had heard about her social status.
When Alka's mother dies, she is left all alone and that's when she marries Subbu, owner of coffee plantation and she finds motherly love in Subbu's mother Anandi. Just when Alka feels she has finally found her home the secrets from her past are exposed.
Will Alka fight back to kill the demons of her past? Will she again have a place which she can call it her home?
#bookreview
This is my first book from this author although i have heard good things about her books and no doubt this one also is an excellent read. The theme of the book is family, love, life, society, hope, dreams, closure. The story is very beautiful and the readers will surely relate to it. The flow is smooth, its fast paced and will keep you hooked. Characters are convincing and feel genuine. The story shows the reality of life. The emotions and the drama will pull you in and you can feel it what the characters feel. It addresses the social issues like discrimination based on caste and status. Whether your past or social status matters is what forms the crux of this story.
I found the ending a bit rushed rushed. I also wanted to know what happens with krish but that part was left unfinished. Other than that it is an engaging read.
Recommended
July 26, 2022
A Place Called Home by Preeti Shenoy promises a heart-touching story that will tug at the reader's heartstrings. I, having read a few books by the author, was ecstatic to have received a review copy directly from the publisher. However, I was more than ready to fling it out my first story window a mere seventy pages into the book. There are very few things I hate more than a book that is downright boring with less than charming characters.
I am unsure how much I can say about this book without spoiling the plot because, frankly speaking, there isn't one to begin with. It's a pretty straightforward plot with a pretentious girl, honestly, not so likable. This is the first book where I had to assign a particular book tab colour to the scenes I hated the most in the book. Yeah, it was that bad.
Despite the lively, poignant, and still, somehow ambiguous plot promised by the book jacket, the reader is in for a tremendous disappointment. Don't get me wrong; Lively details are my jam. There's nothing better than knowing an author has thought about her characters and situations and come up with surprising and delightful details that make the whole reading experience fuller. Lively details, you understand - pointless details, on the other hand, are a nightmare to read. A Place Called Home by Preeti Shenoy was overbrimming with such details.
My biggest complaint about this book is the lack of relevance of certain plot aspects. It was as if something had happened, yet it wasn't adequately addressed. Had it happened once, I'd chalk it up to a fluke, but there were too many instances for me to turn a blind eye. The final dilemma of "what will happen at the end?" was utterly dissatisfactory. Sorry for a potential spoiler here, but when the book took an "It Ends With Us" angle, I knew it was irredeemable.
Long story short, I wouldn't recommend reading this book. Regardless of how good the other books penned by the author are, this one doesn't live up to the benchmark set by the other books.
I am unsure how much I can say about this book without spoiling the plot because, frankly speaking, there isn't one to begin with. It's a pretty straightforward plot with a pretentious girl, honestly, not so likable. This is the first book where I had to assign a particular book tab colour to the scenes I hated the most in the book. Yeah, it was that bad.
Despite the lively, poignant, and still, somehow ambiguous plot promised by the book jacket, the reader is in for a tremendous disappointment. Don't get me wrong; Lively details are my jam. There's nothing better than knowing an author has thought about her characters and situations and come up with surprising and delightful details that make the whole reading experience fuller. Lively details, you understand - pointless details, on the other hand, are a nightmare to read. A Place Called Home by Preeti Shenoy was overbrimming with such details.
My biggest complaint about this book is the lack of relevance of certain plot aspects. It was as if something had happened, yet it wasn't adequately addressed. Had it happened once, I'd chalk it up to a fluke, but there were too many instances for me to turn a blind eye. The final dilemma of "what will happen at the end?" was utterly dissatisfactory. Sorry for a potential spoiler here, but when the book took an "It Ends With Us" angle, I knew it was irredeemable.
Long story short, I wouldn't recommend reading this book. Regardless of how good the other books penned by the author are, this one doesn't live up to the benchmark set by the other books.
Read
August 30, 2022Are we still living in a patriarchal society?? Do we really need to control women? Well,its high time we change our mind. Women these days are strong enough to handle everything and if required, can fight for themselves. She needs acceptance in society with her good and bad things .Let me introduce you to our main protagonist Alka who went through hell in her life but emerged as a strong woman.
Alka whose mother was working as maid for high class people had been through a really difficult time in her childhood. Books became her only friends as she was ashamed of her status. But her only dream was to study hard, buy a home so that her mother doesn't have to do work as a maid. She studied hard, got good marks, scholarship and was shifted to Bangalore for her further studies.
Her college life was everything which she missed in her childhood. Her own room, freedom and most importantly doing what she wanted. She made really good friends Krish and Manasi. They were enjoying their life full on but Alka's mother sudden demise, made her devastated. She got support from her friends who became her family. Alka was starting to fall in love with Krish and vice versa but one incident changed their lives completely. Read book to know more.
I absolutely loved the plot which has discussed sensetive topics like love, violence, patriarchal society, class difference, Status and most important women's rights. I loved how with her simple story, author has pointed out our societal issues which women still face.
The best part which I learnt is with love and care, we can cure a lonely person. There isn't anything like money or status, just your heart should be big enough to give love to everyone.
A must read.
Alka whose mother was working as maid for high class people had been through a really difficult time in her childhood. Books became her only friends as she was ashamed of her status. But her only dream was to study hard, buy a home so that her mother doesn't have to do work as a maid. She studied hard, got good marks, scholarship and was shifted to Bangalore for her further studies.
Her college life was everything which she missed in her childhood. Her own room, freedom and most importantly doing what she wanted. She made really good friends Krish and Manasi. They were enjoying their life full on but Alka's mother sudden demise, made her devastated. She got support from her friends who became her family. Alka was starting to fall in love with Krish and vice versa but one incident changed their lives completely. Read book to know more.
I absolutely loved the plot which has discussed sensetive topics like love, violence, patriarchal society, class difference, Status and most important women's rights. I loved how with her simple story, author has pointed out our societal issues which women still face.
The best part which I learnt is with love and care, we can cure a lonely person. There isn't anything like money or status, just your heart should be big enough to give love to everyone.
A must read.
September 28, 2023
A Place Called Home is just another gem from Preeti Shenoy, just loved the coffee estate and Salkeshpur, Alka, Manasi, Krish, Subbu, Anandi, Mr Shetty, Renuka and Manish the story is just stunning like I was involved and went through every character through the heart, the story evolves around Alka, a young girl who's more enthusiastic to get out of the place she lived being the maids, the girl faced a lot of embraced and disgusted to live and tell about her to friends, after hard work that she did in her studies, she got placed in the reputed Management institute in Bangalore, where she meet Manasi and Krish (later) after few months a sudden call from Mrs. Shetty, that broke her heart hearing that her mother Seema passed away with a cardiac arrest, later she met Krish's family who lives in Salkeshpur where their family have coffee estate and later Alka meet Subbu who's Krishs brother as Anandi(mother of Subbu)liked her nature and she thought Alka would be a perfect match for Subbu, but twist Alka loves Krish, Krish and Manasi was already in a relationship a sudden call from Manasi saying that she was pregnant and later they got married, even Alka thought she should marry Subbu after few months Alka got Pregnant with Tulika and later Nisha, Manasi was blessed with Sanal, after few years Ananadi passed away with a huge accident that the family can't find the body parts, year passed away its Anandis 1st death anniversary, Subbu invited all his business associates then Mrs. Senapathy who was Alkas professor at Delhi recognised her unveiled the past about Alka to Subbu, that she was hiding from everyone, subbu got upset and slapped Alka, then it takes another twist! It's a happy ending!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2022
About the book 📖: 🏡The main protagonists of this story are Alka, Subbu and Krish. 🏡The story mainly revolves around the character 'Alka' and her journey in life. 🏡Alka is a daughter of a maid Seema at Mrs Shetty's house, Alka always dreams of an escape from there. 🏡Mrs Shetty sends her to the same school as her daughter but in the thought of just one of the charity projects for Inner Circle Club not so concerned about them and their loyalty towards her, but Alka works hard and studies well. 🏡Later, she marries Subbu, a coffee grower with a four hundred-acre estate. 🏡Alka feels complete in life when she finally found a home for herself which she longed for from a young age and she has an amazing relationship with her mother-in-law, Anandi who takes care of Alka and her two young daughters. 🏡After her marriage everything was going good in her life until when secrets about her past that she has fiercely guarded are exposed, they threaten to destroy her life. 🏡Alka decided to fight her demons and travel back to the world she worked so hard to leave behind. 🏡The author beautifully described the character variations between two brothers, Subbu and Krish. 🏡Author neatly described the societal discrimination against privileged and not-so-privileged people, caste and status and how it impacts one's life and the trauma they go through. 🏡Author's descriptions of the characters and their emotions and about various places are so vivid and wonderful pictures of events. 🏡Author Preeti is an amazing story narrator and we can feel how the character feels and can connect to it. 🏡This novel is a story of secrets, family, relationships, hardships and finding oneself.
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