Leave and Come Back - A Novel

By: Lavanya Lakshmi

Published by Penguin Group, 2026-06-16

“Leave and Come Back is a phenomenal debut. Prepare to fall in love with the entire cast of characters while Lakshmi expertly weaves humor, heart, and tenderness onto every page.” —Hannah Bonam-Young, New York Times bestselling author of People Watching

You’re invited to the most romantic, chaotic wedding of the season

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. Now, Simran finds herself returning to the family home she’s been avoiding for the last seven years to take part in a two-week long Indian wedding.

Family drama is already at a high when Leo Bridgers, Simran’s new boyfriend, accidentally crashes the engagement party. To avoid full crisis mode and provoking the ire of Veena perima, Simran’s aunt and judgmental family matriarch, the cousins need to rally. Commence: Operation DDLJ.

Following the lead of their favorite Bollywood movie, they need to trick Veena into adoring Leo. In a mess of misdirection and hijinks, Leo must prove himself to be the most charming, helpful wedding guest imaginable, and he certainly can’t give away that he’s ever met—let alone is currently in love with—Simran.

For Simran, 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.

Charming, tender, and hilarious, Leave and Come Back asks what it means to open up to love, what makes a family, and how to honor the past while embracing the present.