Top 5 Books of Indian Author Preeti Shenoy
Preeti Shenoy is celebrated as one of India’s prominent female authors, renowned for her engaging storytelling that captures the imagination of readers. In an interview with DESIblitz, she shares insights about her most acclaimed novels, which frequently highlight the experiences of strong women in pursuit of love, personal growth and happiness.
Her debut work, 34 Bubblegums and Candies, debuted in 2008 and has remained a bestseller for years. Following this success, Preeti has released eight additional bestselling titles with her ninth book revealed at the Birmingham Literature Festival on October 7, 2017. To commemorate her appearance at the festival, here are five of her top-selling novels, along with her thoughts on each.
The Secret Wish List
One of Preeti’s most beloved novels, The Secret Wish List, tells the story of Diksha, a spirited teenager whose dreams of love and happiness are overshadowed by societal expectations. As she matures and marries to please her parents, she feels trapped in a monotonous life. Upon recalling a past romance she creates a secret wish list that unveils her true desires.
Preeti explains, “I wanted to delve into whether merely listing wishes can lead to their fulfillment and how many Indian housewives often lose touch with their true selves, neglecting their own aspirations.” This novel emphasizes the internal conflicts many women face, sparking conversations about their hidden yearnings. “Numerous readers conveyed that I had articulated their experiences, fostering a better understanding between partners,” she reflects.
The One You Cannot Have
This poignant tale explores love and heartbreak through the lives of Aman and Shruti, a couple torn apart when Shruti chooses to marry someone else. Heartbroken, Aman relocates abroad in hopes of moving on. Preeti employs dual perspectives to convey the depth of their emotions.
“Capturing a male viewpoint was challenging, so I consulted male friends to ensure authenticity,” she reveals. The narrative also draws from Preeti’s own experiences in the UK, vividly depicting the charm of Norwich while incorporating British characters’ reactions to Indian culture.
Life is What You Make It
In this early novel, Preeti addresses the societal stigmas surrounding mental health and depression in India, setting the story in the 1980s, a period when discussing mental health issues was considered taboo. The protagonist, Ankita, is a bright young woman whose promising life takes a tragic turn, leading to her admission in a mental health facility.
“Ankita’s character is inspired by various people I know. My research into bipolar disorder and conversations with mental health professionals influenced her story,” she shares. The familiar settings of Mumbai and Kerala add depth to the narrative.
It Happens for a Reason
This novel introduces Vee, a single mother and entrepreneur who embodies resilience and determination. Preeti notes that while she encountered a real-life version of Vee after writing the book, she had no specific role model during its creation. The narrative addresses the societal challenges faced by unwed mothers, particularly in rural India.
“Vee’s story reflects the struggles of women who choose personal happiness over societal expectations,” Preeti emphasizes. The book confronts the stigma associated with single motherhood while celebrating the strength of women who challenge conventional norms.
It’s All in the Planets
Preeti’s latest book explores themes of love and marriage, interwoven with astrology and the notion of soulmates. The story follows Aniket, a tech professional in Bangalore, who battles insecurities regarding his girlfriend, Trish. Their relationship takes an unexpected turn when Aniket meets Nidhi, who becomes his fitness and relationship coach.
“Astrology plays a pivotal role in the plot, with horoscopes influencing the characters’ journeys,” Preeti explains. The narrative juxtaposes traditional marriage expectations with modern live-in relationships, reflecting the diverse perspectives within Indian society.
Preeti Shenoy’s appeal lies in her ability to craft relatable stories that resonate with a broad audience. Her novels are not only compelling reads but also encourage reflection and discussion on pressing social issues.
An Afternoon with Preeti Shenoy at the Birmingham Literature Festival
Readers will have the chance to meet Preeti Shenoy in person at the Birmingham Literature Festival on October 7, 2017. The event, titled “An Afternoon with Preeti Shenoy,” will feature an engaging Q&A session with Kavita A. Jindal. Attendees can also expect an exclusive preview of her upcoming book, which remains untitled.
Preeti expresses her excitement, saying, “The cover reveal of my ninth book will occur at the Birmingham Literature Festival, and many readers in India are eagerly looking forward to this moment!”