Lavanya Lakshmi

Leave and Come Back

A Novel

Family drama meets love story in this charming, tender, and hilarious novel about opening up to love, what makes a family, and honoring the past while embracing the present.

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

When Leo Bridgers, Simran’s new boyfriend, accidentally crashes the engagement party, the cousins rally to avoid provoking Veena perima, Simran’s aunt and judgmental family matriarch. Following their favorite Bollywood movie, they must trick Veena into adoring Leo without revealing that he and Simran are in love.

Being back with her family also brings up memories of the difficult years after her parents died. As old grievances and new secrets arise—with nosy aunties always watching—Simran must find a way to heal her wounds or risk losing her happy ending with Leo and her family.