Fear and Lovely

This original novel delves into the complexities of identity and love, as Mallika navigates trauma and the secrets of her family in Fear and Lovely.

Set in the vibrant backdrop of 1970s India, Fear and Lovely explores themes of identity, family, desire, and love through the life of Mallika, a painfully shy young woman. Growing up in a lively yet stifling New Delhi colony, she is surrounded by love but is burdened by the weight of secrets that her mother, aunt, and she strive to keep hidden. The complexities of her life are magnified by the societal expectations and personal struggles that shape her existence.

After experiencing a traumatic event at the age of nineteen, Mallika finds herself grappling with the loss of three days of memory, leading her into a deep depression. The journey back to herself is fraught with challenges, as she seeks to reconnect with those she loves while concealing her mental illness from her community. This struggle highlights the often invisible battles faced by individuals, particularly women, within the constraints of societal norms.

The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Mallika and the seven people closest to her, revealing an astonishing tapestry of interconnected lives. Each character, including Mallika's family, childhood friends, and the two men she loves, harbors their own truths and struggles. As their stories intertwine, the silences and secrets that bind them begin to shatter, leading to moments of revelation and understanding in Fear and Lovely.