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Fear and Lovely
Mallika is a painfully shy young woman growing up in the heart of a close-knit, sometimes stifling New Delhi colony.
Though she is surrounded by love, her life is complicated by secrets that she, her mother and her aunt work hard to keep. After suffering a trauma aged nineteen that causes her to lose three days of her memory and spiral into a deep depression, Mallika must find a way out of the abyss, back to herself and those she cares about. But she must also hide her mental illness from her community.
In a narrative that unfolds elliptically from the perspectives of Mallika and the seven people closest to her, the astonishing story of these characters' intertwining lives emerges.
For Mallika's family, childhood friends and the two men she loves are also hiding truths. As each gives voice to contending with their own struggles, secrets and silences shatter.
As irreverent and funny as it is serious and anguished, Fear and Lovely is a tender, character-driven story of love, longing, terror and healing that will keep you turning pages, and won't let you go.
Though she is surrounded by love, her life is complicated by secrets that she, her mother and her aunt work hard to keep. After suffering a trauma aged nineteen that causes her to lose three days of her memory and spiral into a deep depression, Mallika must find a way out of the abyss, back to herself and those she cares about. But she must also hide her mental illness from her community.
In a narrative that unfolds elliptically from the perspectives of Mallika and the seven people closest to her, the astonishing story of these characters' intertwining lives emerges.
For Mallika's family, childhood friends and the two men she loves are also hiding truths. As each gives voice to contending with their own struggles, secrets and silences shatter.
As irreverent and funny as it is serious and anguished, Fear and Lovely is a tender, character-driven story of love, longing, terror and healing that will keep you turning pages, and won't let you go.
480 pages, Hardcover
Published May 9, 2023
16 people are currently reading
582 people want to read
About the author
Anjana Appachana
4 books20 followersAnjana Appachana is a novelist of Indian origin who lives in the United States. She has written a book of short stories titled Incantations and a novel titled Listening Now.
Anjana Appachana was born in India of Coorg (Karnataka) origin and educated at Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior, Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University and Pennsylvania State University.
Her first book Incantations and Other Stories was published in England by Virago in 1991 and in the US by Rutgers University Press in 1992. The book was reissued in India by Penguin in 2006. The stories in it are set in the early eighties in India. One of her short stories titled "Sharmaji" was included in Mirrorwork: Fifty Years of Indian Writing, a collection edited by Salman Rushdie and Elizabeth West.
Appachana received the O. Henry Festival Prize and a creative writing fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts in the US. Her first novel and second book is titled Listening Now, and was published by Random House in 1997. In it, six women tell the story of two lovers, Padma and Karan, spanning sixteen years. The novel is set in Bangalore, Delhi and Lucknow.
Speaking about the perception of women writing in India, she has said "Writing is not deemed legitimate work by anyone. They assume that it can be put aside for anything and everything -- for housework, for house guests, for cooking... Now tell me, how many people who work outside the house do you know who would take time off from their work to cook a meal or do groceries or laundry or look after house guests? None, right?...That's because they work outside the house and because they have a regular income which apparently legitimizes their work." In the same interview, Appachana adds that a writer's life is comparatively more comfortable in America than in India.
She lives in Tempe, Arizona, and has a young daughter.
(from Wikipedia)
Anjana Appachana was born in India of Coorg (Karnataka) origin and educated at Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior, Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University and Pennsylvania State University.
Her first book Incantations and Other Stories was published in England by Virago in 1991 and in the US by Rutgers University Press in 1992. The book was reissued in India by Penguin in 2006. The stories in it are set in the early eighties in India. One of her short stories titled "Sharmaji" was included in Mirrorwork: Fifty Years of Indian Writing, a collection edited by Salman Rushdie and Elizabeth West.
Appachana received the O. Henry Festival Prize and a creative writing fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts in the US. Her first novel and second book is titled Listening Now, and was published by Random House in 1997. In it, six women tell the story of two lovers, Padma and Karan, spanning sixteen years. The novel is set in Bangalore, Delhi and Lucknow.
Speaking about the perception of women writing in India, she has said "Writing is not deemed legitimate work by anyone. They assume that it can be put aside for anything and everything -- for housework, for house guests, for cooking... Now tell me, how many people who work outside the house do you know who would take time off from their work to cook a meal or do groceries or laundry or look after house guests? None, right?...That's because they work outside the house and because they have a regular income which apparently legitimizes their work." In the same interview, Appachana adds that a writer's life is comparatively more comfortable in America than in India.
She lives in Tempe, Arizona, and has a young daughter.
(from Wikipedia)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 1, 2024
I am at a loss for words. I don't know how to describe this novel. For almost 475 pages, I was enthralled. Irritated with the circular narration with the same thing repeated by different narrators. Breathless with anticipation on what happens. And then, Anjana destroys it for me with the ending.
I get it. Maybe, the ending is a reflection of the book. We don't know what people ever tell us. People have so many lies. But I felt let down. I wanted answers. I wanted to have it all wrapped up.
There could have been fewer pages, yes, and I am not sure how New Delhi in the 1970s and 80s was, but I was intrigued by all the sleeping around that seemed to have happened then. Really?
This is a fast-paced novel, gripping, and sort of disappointing too. But one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend.
I get it. Maybe, the ending is a reflection of the book. We don't know what people ever tell us. People have so many lies. But I felt let down. I wanted answers. I wanted to have it all wrapped up.
There could have been fewer pages, yes, and I am not sure how New Delhi in the 1970s and 80s was, but I was intrigued by all the sleeping around that seemed to have happened then. Really?
This is a fast-paced novel, gripping, and sort of disappointing too. But one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend.
January 17, 2023
This is the most character driven book I’ve read for a long time. It’s a wonderful literary read set in New Delhi, India in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s told from multiple POV’s. Brilliantly written characters, I could see them all in my minds eye. The main character is Mallika, a quiet girl who has been brought up by two ‘mothers’ who are hiding a secret from her. Mallika has three close female friends and two male friends Arnav and Randhir who she loves, but believes her feelings are not reciprocated. Both men have their own secrets they are hiding from her. The theme of mental illness running throughout the book was quite distressing in that it was treated as something to be hidden and ashamed of and the lengths the family went to to hide it was astonishing.
Briefly, after a traumatic incident Mallika has a breakdown and looses 3 days of her memory. Always quiet she becomes virtually comatose, barely speaking or eating and unable to sleep. Eventually, her mothers take her to a psychiatrist who helps her gradually recover and she starts to work towards getting a free scholarship to study in America.
This is a long book and a slow burner, I think it took me about 10 hours to read, and normally I would be getting a bit distracted but this kept my interest throughout, I wanted so much for Mallika to have a happy ending! I’ve been to India (I love it) quite a few times and seen some distressing sights but I was shocked at some of the things revealed here. Particularly, the treatment of women not just in the home but in the streets. I hope things have changed since this was set. The only downside for me was I really wanted to know what happens next? Is there a sequel planned? The book is an absolute gem. A wonderful contemporary read with a main character I just wanted to hug. Loved it.
4.5⭐️
Briefly, after a traumatic incident Mallika has a breakdown and looses 3 days of her memory. Always quiet she becomes virtually comatose, barely speaking or eating and unable to sleep. Eventually, her mothers take her to a psychiatrist who helps her gradually recover and she starts to work towards getting a free scholarship to study in America.
This is a long book and a slow burner, I think it took me about 10 hours to read, and normally I would be getting a bit distracted but this kept my interest throughout, I wanted so much for Mallika to have a happy ending! I’ve been to India (I love it) quite a few times and seen some distressing sights but I was shocked at some of the things revealed here. Particularly, the treatment of women not just in the home but in the streets. I hope things have changed since this was set. The only downside for me was I really wanted to know what happens next? Is there a sequel planned? The book is an absolute gem. A wonderful contemporary read with a main character I just wanted to hug. Loved it.
4.5⭐️
November 30, 2023
474 pages of puerile pap, inane, infantile verbosity, agonizingly repetitive, bewilderingly convoluted, with the same insignificant event presented endlessly from the viewpoints of protagonists who are unbelievable superachievers - studying in IIT, LSR, Stephen's, JNU, AFMC and all going on to do their PhD in the the USA. A distillation of all Mills and Boon books - brooding males and mysterious bewitching females...
April 4, 2024
Long, slow paced and repetitive.
September 13, 2023
This book has truly made its way into my heart. A beautiful story about love (of every kind) and lies, and how complicated life can be. The writing had me captivated by the extraordinary and mundane alike, and while normally I find different POVs of the same event to drag with Fear and Lovely I was invested and wanted to know and understand everyone’s motivations.
When I wasn’t reading i was thinking about what was going to happen, who might find out what and how people would react. I know that now I’ve finished I will miss these wonderful characters and think about their how their stories would continue.
When I wasn’t reading i was thinking about what was going to happen, who might find out what and how people would react. I know that now I’ve finished I will miss these wonderful characters and think about their how their stories would continue.
May 2, 2023
Couldn’t recommend this more! It’s so rich in culture, social issues, character development and every emotion under the sun. I was hooked instantly, felt like I had moved to Delhi and experienced it along with them.
July 25, 2023
I have never read a book where the main character has the same name as me so it was a little unnerving — but this book was truly enveloping in ways unexpected.
March 15, 2023
I read this as a part of a bookclub read-along and thoroughly enjoyed it. This book is the definition of how I would like the description of India or its people to be depicted. There is so much culture packed in this book that even I who was raised in India enjoyed re-living it.
The main characters are not one but three called Mallika Arnav and Randhir. The story revolves around these three friends, and their extended friends group and families. From the descriptions about their everyday life, experiences with their families, opinions on politics, their preferences in life, societal pressures etc makes the book gripping but really long. I do think the length of the book is justified because of the strong characterisation.
If you have read Shantaram and enjoy that style of writing, you will definitely enjoy this book. Set in the 1980s, the scenes of India back then were new to me and were very interesting. I remembered my grandmothers sarees when I read about Mallikas sarees. The only issue was that every time they mentioned any food item like samosas or rasmalai , my mouth would water.
What book have you read recently in which the food made you feel hungry?
The main characters are not one but three called Mallika Arnav and Randhir. The story revolves around these three friends, and their extended friends group and families. From the descriptions about their everyday life, experiences with their families, opinions on politics, their preferences in life, societal pressures etc makes the book gripping but really long. I do think the length of the book is justified because of the strong characterisation.
If you have read Shantaram and enjoy that style of writing, you will definitely enjoy this book. Set in the 1980s, the scenes of India back then were new to me and were very interesting. I remembered my grandmothers sarees when I read about Mallikas sarees. The only issue was that every time they mentioned any food item like samosas or rasmalai , my mouth would water.
What book have you read recently in which the food made you feel hungry?
March 30, 2023
This is a beautiful, character-driven novel about love, friendship and the complications of having secrets! We relive each important scene from different characters points of view, showing how memories can differ for all of us and how not being honest with the people closest to us can cause misunderstandings.
I loved this book. It needs to be 500+ pages long, we need to see every moment of each characters thoughts, we need to fear the worst as we’re built up to finding out what actually happened to Mallika.
I love the strong women in this book. Even though they are constrained by society’s expectations of them they all find their own ways to rebel, to assert their independence and individuality. The tribe surrounding Mallika is beautiful!!
I loved this book. It needs to be 500+ pages long, we need to see every moment of each characters thoughts, we need to fear the worst as we’re built up to finding out what actually happened to Mallika.
I love the strong women in this book. Even though they are constrained by society’s expectations of them they all find their own ways to rebel, to assert their independence and individuality. The tribe surrounding Mallika is beautiful!!
January 13, 2026
Set over a decade across the seventies and eighties, this book really felt like it was a decade long. It is only because of my sheer stubbornness that I persevered to the end.
The central character is Mallika, a young woman who lives in New Delhi with her mother and her aunt, she has a tight-knit group of friends and the story is told from EIGHT points of view... repetitively and seemingly endlessly. At nineteen Mallika suffers a trauma and, as a result, loses her memory of the three days afterwards and spirals into depression.
We hear about the events leading up to the trauma and beyond with everyone adding their own opinions and perspectives. As the main plot unfolds we also learn of the side-characters backstories, her two male friends Arnav and Randhir both have hidden feelings that Mallika is oblivious to and her female friends are thinking about marriage and beyond. The continuous repetition of the story really did drag on, and, whilst I appreciate hearing from multiple perspectives, I think eight of them is a few too many!
What I did enjoy was the scene-setting in this book, the location descriptions were great and I could hear the hustle and bustle of the streets, could picture the Aunties chatting and cooking and I liked learning about the modern sensibilities of the younger characters in the book. I felt like I learned a lot about life for young adults in 1970's Delhi, the dangers, struggles and hard choices faced by both women and men.
This one was just far too long and slow paced for me, but I would not be against reading another from this author... I'd just check the page count beforehand!
The central character is Mallika, a young woman who lives in New Delhi with her mother and her aunt, she has a tight-knit group of friends and the story is told from EIGHT points of view... repetitively and seemingly endlessly. At nineteen Mallika suffers a trauma and, as a result, loses her memory of the three days afterwards and spirals into depression.
We hear about the events leading up to the trauma and beyond with everyone adding their own opinions and perspectives. As the main plot unfolds we also learn of the side-characters backstories, her two male friends Arnav and Randhir both have hidden feelings that Mallika is oblivious to and her female friends are thinking about marriage and beyond. The continuous repetition of the story really did drag on, and, whilst I appreciate hearing from multiple perspectives, I think eight of them is a few too many!
What I did enjoy was the scene-setting in this book, the location descriptions were great and I could hear the hustle and bustle of the streets, could picture the Aunties chatting and cooking and I liked learning about the modern sensibilities of the younger characters in the book. I felt like I learned a lot about life for young adults in 1970's Delhi, the dangers, struggles and hard choices faced by both women and men.
This one was just far too long and slow paced for me, but I would not be against reading another from this author... I'd just check the page count beforehand!
May 11, 2023
This is the story of a girl growing up in Delhi in the 1970s, who feels she is destined for a life that is different than the one expected of her, and how she navigates that sense of wanting to grow, and how she balances that with the commitments, obligations, and duties she holds to her childhood friends and family.
I had a hard time putting this book down. When I did, I was thinking of Mallika, the protagonist, and wondering what had happened to her, was happening to her, and would happen to her. The story is told in a woven fashion, jumping through time, where chapters alternate characters’ points-of-view, retelling scenes in new ways with new information. In such a form, we weave in and out of the story, sharing the varying perspectives, as if each individual is contributing to the greater telling by sharing in turn their side of the story. The novel revolves around a close-knit community built of many verbose and astute characters, so this form fits the content.
Mallika is a truth seeker at heart, but it takes a traumatic event and a TBI (traumatic brain injury) along with a few new healers, to bring this to her awareness. She has been brought up to employ falsification as a tool for the greater good (to lie, for example, to protect another’s feelings). It is only when Mallika hits bottom that she begins to live more authentically, with less obligation to be the good girl, restrained, and obedient. In that new space things get a little messy. Coupled with some short-term amnesia, she gets lost between the truth, forgetting, absence, and pretense.
There is nothing like the sensation of being dropped into a culture and flying along with their customs, mores, aromas, and language. In this book, I felt like a small stowaway on the protagonist’s shirttails. Appachana does not define her terms for the comfort of an outsider. She doesn’t talk down to a Western reader who might not know India’s politics of the 1970s, or be familiar with the local dishes her characters relish in their homes or at restaurants. She doesn’t explain to, or tell, the reader where we are or what to expect— she shows us. She lets the reader observe, listen, participate, and figure it out. In this way, we are brought into the story as a guest, rather than witnessing it through the window as an outsider, so to speak. That is one of the gifts of this novel.
Nuanced observation and reflection are as potent as action in this book. Mallika will report her side of a conversation with Arnav, and then note that after she herself spoke, Arnav’s face closed down, which she was quite sure meant that Arnav was feeling ashamed about his father and the dog. But then, in the following chapter, you hear Arnav’s take on the same scene, and you learn that he was feeling conflicted about something else entirely and his face closed down because of the need to restrain himself from sharing a secret. Mallika read his expression with sensitivity and compassion, and also, she misinterpreted it. This is a recurring configuration in the book. It is set in this deeply loving environment, where mothers would do anything and everything for their children because they are their pride and joy, and friends would sacrifice their needs for their buddies because they are fierce protectors and share a heartfelt devotion, and, still—we cannot read each other’s truths with our own eyes as well as we might think. We read with a lens that is tinted by the limits of our knowledge and influenced by our assumptions, which we might not be able to identify. This book shows us that the only way to truly know what someone else is feeling, or what they need, is to create enough trust over time that, with patience, the truth will be revealed eventually, and finally, someone will say what has been unspoken, without the fibs in place they might otherwise use as protection. This layering of truth building up amidst the unwrapping of pretense was so compelling, I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
I loved living through Mallika’s eyes and being in her space and sharing in her life. It was an honor to be a visitor in a long-ago time and place that no longer exists. The India of the 1970s is history. I found the characters’ devotion to each other’s success enlivening and heartening. You feel you get to know these characters so well, you just adore them all. Since finishing this book, I have missed them.
I had a hard time putting this book down. When I did, I was thinking of Mallika, the protagonist, and wondering what had happened to her, was happening to her, and would happen to her. The story is told in a woven fashion, jumping through time, where chapters alternate characters’ points-of-view, retelling scenes in new ways with new information. In such a form, we weave in and out of the story, sharing the varying perspectives, as if each individual is contributing to the greater telling by sharing in turn their side of the story. The novel revolves around a close-knit community built of many verbose and astute characters, so this form fits the content.
Mallika is a truth seeker at heart, but it takes a traumatic event and a TBI (traumatic brain injury) along with a few new healers, to bring this to her awareness. She has been brought up to employ falsification as a tool for the greater good (to lie, for example, to protect another’s feelings). It is only when Mallika hits bottom that she begins to live more authentically, with less obligation to be the good girl, restrained, and obedient. In that new space things get a little messy. Coupled with some short-term amnesia, she gets lost between the truth, forgetting, absence, and pretense.
There is nothing like the sensation of being dropped into a culture and flying along with their customs, mores, aromas, and language. In this book, I felt like a small stowaway on the protagonist’s shirttails. Appachana does not define her terms for the comfort of an outsider. She doesn’t talk down to a Western reader who might not know India’s politics of the 1970s, or be familiar with the local dishes her characters relish in their homes or at restaurants. She doesn’t explain to, or tell, the reader where we are or what to expect— she shows us. She lets the reader observe, listen, participate, and figure it out. In this way, we are brought into the story as a guest, rather than witnessing it through the window as an outsider, so to speak. That is one of the gifts of this novel.
Nuanced observation and reflection are as potent as action in this book. Mallika will report her side of a conversation with Arnav, and then note that after she herself spoke, Arnav’s face closed down, which she was quite sure meant that Arnav was feeling ashamed about his father and the dog. But then, in the following chapter, you hear Arnav’s take on the same scene, and you learn that he was feeling conflicted about something else entirely and his face closed down because of the need to restrain himself from sharing a secret. Mallika read his expression with sensitivity and compassion, and also, she misinterpreted it. This is a recurring configuration in the book. It is set in this deeply loving environment, where mothers would do anything and everything for their children because they are their pride and joy, and friends would sacrifice their needs for their buddies because they are fierce protectors and share a heartfelt devotion, and, still—we cannot read each other’s truths with our own eyes as well as we might think. We read with a lens that is tinted by the limits of our knowledge and influenced by our assumptions, which we might not be able to identify. This book shows us that the only way to truly know what someone else is feeling, or what they need, is to create enough trust over time that, with patience, the truth will be revealed eventually, and finally, someone will say what has been unspoken, without the fibs in place they might otherwise use as protection. This layering of truth building up amidst the unwrapping of pretense was so compelling, I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
I loved living through Mallika’s eyes and being in her space and sharing in her life. It was an honor to be a visitor in a long-ago time and place that no longer exists. The India of the 1970s is history. I found the characters’ devotion to each other’s success enlivening and heartening. You feel you get to know these characters so well, you just adore them all. Since finishing this book, I have missed them.
June 12, 2023
Fear and Lovely by Anjana Appachana is a story set in New Delhi in the 70s. Told from multiple POVs, this is a story of love, longing, and healing. Unfortunately, at 480 pages, it is too long…sigh! Almost never-ending!
Mallika is a student at a leading college in Delhi University. She lives with her mothers. Yes, she has two ‘mothers.’ Her birth mother and aunt, both of whom are mothers to her. She is close with both her ‘mothers’ but is unaware of a secret they and her grandmother are hiding. Mallika's close-knit network includes her three best female friends, two male friends, and their mothers. She loves Arnav and Randhir but is unaware of their feelings.
When she turns nineteen, a traumatic event results in her losing three days of memory. And once again, her mothers come up with a plan that helps in saving face. As the story unfolds, Appachana reveals the various secrets and their impact on Mallika’s life and on those of others around her.
Appachana covers various themes, such as mental health, assault, sexuality, morality, perceptions, and societal pressure. She paints a beautiful picture of Delhi from the 70s and 80s. The camaraderie between neighbours, exchanging of dabbas, sharing a telephone connection with people living next door, lives of middle-class families, and their struggles are brought out wonderfully.
The unwavering bond Mallika’s mother has with her tribe is beyond beautiful. Mallika’s relationship with her childhood friends is so pure and strong.
Unfortunately, the narrative style was a huge dampener. I didn’t like reading about the same set of events from varied POVs. Frankly, it was quite irritating. I understand it’s a valuable tool and gives the readers a closer view of each character’s thoughts, fears, and worries. Just didn’t work for me!
Though Fear and Lovely was a dud for me, I wish the author the very best.
I received an advance review copy from Netgalley and Verve Books. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
Mallika is a student at a leading college in Delhi University. She lives with her mothers. Yes, she has two ‘mothers.’ Her birth mother and aunt, both of whom are mothers to her. She is close with both her ‘mothers’ but is unaware of a secret they and her grandmother are hiding. Mallika's close-knit network includes her three best female friends, two male friends, and their mothers. She loves Arnav and Randhir but is unaware of their feelings.
When she turns nineteen, a traumatic event results in her losing three days of memory. And once again, her mothers come up with a plan that helps in saving face. As the story unfolds, Appachana reveals the various secrets and their impact on Mallika’s life and on those of others around her.
Appachana covers various themes, such as mental health, assault, sexuality, morality, perceptions, and societal pressure. She paints a beautiful picture of Delhi from the 70s and 80s. The camaraderie between neighbours, exchanging of dabbas, sharing a telephone connection with people living next door, lives of middle-class families, and their struggles are brought out wonderfully.
The unwavering bond Mallika’s mother has with her tribe is beyond beautiful. Mallika’s relationship with her childhood friends is so pure and strong.
Unfortunately, the narrative style was a huge dampener. I didn’t like reading about the same set of events from varied POVs. Frankly, it was quite irritating. I understand it’s a valuable tool and gives the readers a closer view of each character’s thoughts, fears, and worries. Just didn’t work for me!
Though Fear and Lovely was a dud for me, I wish the author the very best.
I received an advance review copy from Netgalley and Verve Books. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
June 14, 2023
What's the one book that you were a little apprehensive to read but completely devoured it?
For me it was Fear and Lovely by Anjana Appachana.
I was a little apprehensive seeing the size of the book but once you start the book, you would not even notice how quickly you cross chapter after chapter.
Fear and Lovely is a story mainly based on Mallika, a shy young girl mostly observed by everyone as a traditional sweet woman. But what is exactly the reason of her being so introvert?
Everyone around her.
Mallika grows up with people who cherish her as well as remain aloof to her, has estranged relation with some close ones, faces complicated feeling development for people who might never reciprocate.
Amidst all these she loses her memory for 3 days. Back then what did all these mean? How is Mallika kept away from society? Is she deemed as mentally unfit? And now that she is going abroad to study, how does that chapter of life treat her?
This was one of my favorite reads of the year so far. The way the author has woven the little intricacies of the Indian reality in the novel is what makes it beautiful. You can relate to the snark comments from the gossiping aunties as well the need to hide the mental illness.
Personally, the tone of sarcasm used by the author has made me love the book and recommend it to everyone. I have bookmarked so many portions of the book.
Further books with multiple Pov gives me a better glimpse into what every character in the book is thinking and processing, making me connected to the novel. And this book has given importance to all its character in the needful way.
Finally, the book is a hot take on Indian society's social and cultural views post the Emergency period. The development and somehow the similarity with today's time will make you appreciate the book more.
For me it was Fear and Lovely by Anjana Appachana.
I was a little apprehensive seeing the size of the book but once you start the book, you would not even notice how quickly you cross chapter after chapter.
Fear and Lovely is a story mainly based on Mallika, a shy young girl mostly observed by everyone as a traditional sweet woman. But what is exactly the reason of her being so introvert?
Everyone around her.
Mallika grows up with people who cherish her as well as remain aloof to her, has estranged relation with some close ones, faces complicated feeling development for people who might never reciprocate.
Amidst all these she loses her memory for 3 days. Back then what did all these mean? How is Mallika kept away from society? Is she deemed as mentally unfit? And now that she is going abroad to study, how does that chapter of life treat her?
This was one of my favorite reads of the year so far. The way the author has woven the little intricacies of the Indian reality in the novel is what makes it beautiful. You can relate to the snark comments from the gossiping aunties as well the need to hide the mental illness.
Personally, the tone of sarcasm used by the author has made me love the book and recommend it to everyone. I have bookmarked so many portions of the book.
Further books with multiple Pov gives me a better glimpse into what every character in the book is thinking and processing, making me connected to the novel. And this book has given importance to all its character in the needful way.
Finally, the book is a hot take on Indian society's social and cultural views post the Emergency period. The development and somehow the similarity with today's time will make you appreciate the book more.
February 14, 2023
Novel set in NEW DELHI
I have often longed to know what goes on beyond the tourist scene in India. And this novel – although set several decades ago – offers an insight into family life, essentially through the eyes of one young woman, Mallika, a shy and bookish person. She has 2 mothers who are keeping secrets, but she is happy enough despite persistent migraines, She also has some close female friends and two male friends, Arnav and Rhandir whom she cares for deeply but is unclear whether her feelings are in any way at reciprocated.
Then a traumatic event occurs and she loses three days of memory. The novel is very much a depiction of mental health in a society that is ill-at-ease acknowledging the impact and complications of such conditions. It also delves into the lives of women, examining the issues that face women. The aunties chatter away and gossip, as they try to keep the younger generations in order. The novel is very much a character driven story, which brings in family and friends and the dynamics between them. There are quite a few people to get to know but they all morph into individual entities as the book progresses.
In essence this feels like a real peek behind the scenes of colony life, a story written with confidence and panache, sprinkled with humour. The reader will also discover how the title came about – it really is a novel title, isn’t it?
This would certainly be a good novel to pick up if you are heading to Delhi as I think would offer a deeper appreciation of the city and the ways of the people who live there.
I have often longed to know what goes on beyond the tourist scene in India. And this novel – although set several decades ago – offers an insight into family life, essentially through the eyes of one young woman, Mallika, a shy and bookish person. She has 2 mothers who are keeping secrets, but she is happy enough despite persistent migraines, She also has some close female friends and two male friends, Arnav and Rhandir whom she cares for deeply but is unclear whether her feelings are in any way at reciprocated.
Then a traumatic event occurs and she loses three days of memory. The novel is very much a depiction of mental health in a society that is ill-at-ease acknowledging the impact and complications of such conditions. It also delves into the lives of women, examining the issues that face women. The aunties chatter away and gossip, as they try to keep the younger generations in order. The novel is very much a character driven story, which brings in family and friends and the dynamics between them. There are quite a few people to get to know but they all morph into individual entities as the book progresses.
In essence this feels like a real peek behind the scenes of colony life, a story written with confidence and panache, sprinkled with humour. The reader will also discover how the title came about – it really is a novel title, isn’t it?
This would certainly be a good novel to pick up if you are heading to Delhi as I think would offer a deeper appreciation of the city and the ways of the people who live there.
August 31, 2023
📚 Book Review: "Fear And Lovely" by Anjana Appachana ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dive into the vibrant tapestry of secrets, love, and resilience in Anjana Appachana's "Fear And Lovely." Set against the backdrop of a tight-knit New Delhi colony, this novel weaves a masterful tale that grips your heart and refuses to let go.
Meet Mallika, a young woman navigating the delicate balance between her quiet world and the unspoken truths that bind her family. Appachana skillfully guides us through Mallika's journey, beginning with a traumatic incident that robs her of precious memories. As Mallika's world unravels, we're invited to witness her struggle with depression, pulling us into a web of emotions that's impossible to escape.
But this is more than just Mallika's story; it's a symphony of voices, each character resonating with their own secrets and challenges. Through the prism of Mallika's perspective and the insights of those closest to her, Appachana unveils the complexity of human relationships and the raw beauty of vulnerability.
"Fear And Lovely" captures the essence of life in New Delhi, where love and loyalty mingle with stifling traditions. The author's elliptical narrative technique adds layers of intrigue, keeping us hooked as we piece together the puzzle of intertwined lives. And while Mallika's battles are central, the supporting cast shines just as brightly, painting a complete picture of a community where façades shatter to reveal the strength within.
This novel isn't just a tale; it's an experience. Appachana's words have a magical quality that makes you want to both savor and share them. With a storyline that's as shareable as the most captivating social media post, "Fear And Lovely" is bound to find its way onto countless bookshelves and into the hearts of readers around the world.
In a world where mental health struggles are often concealed, Mallika's journey resonates deeply. Appachana deftly navigates the topic, shedding light on the challenges of hiding one's inner battles while also providing a glimmer of hope for those who've walked a similar path.
In a universe of books, "Fear And Lovely" shines like a five-star constellation. Playful in its storytelling, engaging in its character exploration, and savable in its quotable moments, this novel is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. And as if destiny is on its side, its SEO-friendly qualities make it a gem waiting to be unearthed by those seeking a literary adventure that leaves a lasting impact.
Dive into the vibrant tapestry of secrets, love, and resilience in Anjana Appachana's "Fear And Lovely." Set against the backdrop of a tight-knit New Delhi colony, this novel weaves a masterful tale that grips your heart and refuses to let go.
Meet Mallika, a young woman navigating the delicate balance between her quiet world and the unspoken truths that bind her family. Appachana skillfully guides us through Mallika's journey, beginning with a traumatic incident that robs her of precious memories. As Mallika's world unravels, we're invited to witness her struggle with depression, pulling us into a web of emotions that's impossible to escape.
But this is more than just Mallika's story; it's a symphony of voices, each character resonating with their own secrets and challenges. Through the prism of Mallika's perspective and the insights of those closest to her, Appachana unveils the complexity of human relationships and the raw beauty of vulnerability.
"Fear And Lovely" captures the essence of life in New Delhi, where love and loyalty mingle with stifling traditions. The author's elliptical narrative technique adds layers of intrigue, keeping us hooked as we piece together the puzzle of intertwined lives. And while Mallika's battles are central, the supporting cast shines just as brightly, painting a complete picture of a community where façades shatter to reveal the strength within.
This novel isn't just a tale; it's an experience. Appachana's words have a magical quality that makes you want to both savor and share them. With a storyline that's as shareable as the most captivating social media post, "Fear And Lovely" is bound to find its way onto countless bookshelves and into the hearts of readers around the world.
In a world where mental health struggles are often concealed, Mallika's journey resonates deeply. Appachana deftly navigates the topic, shedding light on the challenges of hiding one's inner battles while also providing a glimmer of hope for those who've walked a similar path.
In a universe of books, "Fear And Lovely" shines like a five-star constellation. Playful in its storytelling, engaging in its character exploration, and savable in its quotable moments, this novel is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. And as if destiny is on its side, its SEO-friendly qualities make it a gem waiting to be unearthed by those seeking a literary adventure that leaves a lasting impact.
July 9, 2024
There is a lot to enjoy in this book, but it definitely could have done with being shorter and less repetitive. Repeatedly changing narrator to cover the same periods of time did give the narrative depth, and made pivotal moments more interesting, but it also often felt like the plot was stagnating - and the jumping around made it hard to remember what had happened when, especially when some of those 'developments' were quite minor. The novel is hugely character driven, and I think it is the depiction of love and affection between central characters that makes these characters so real and easy to empathise with - although with the exception of Mallika, I didn't feel their personalities were as well drawn as they could have been for such a character-driven novel - there's a fair bit of telling not showing, with Randhir's despair in particular.
For a long book, it held my attention and kept me wanting to read on. I was a little disappointed with the ending - it felt like the book was building to more. The theme of secrets - and misunderstandings - was thoroughly and sometimes heartbreakingly explored, if at times a little melodramatically, and I enjoyed the insight into how this could play out in a culture with constant concerns about appearances and shame. A surprisingly hopeful, engaging read, but one that could have done with a trim and a bit more focus in my opinion.
For a long book, it held my attention and kept me wanting to read on. I was a little disappointed with the ending - it felt like the book was building to more. The theme of secrets - and misunderstandings - was thoroughly and sometimes heartbreakingly explored, if at times a little melodramatically, and I enjoyed the insight into how this could play out in a culture with constant concerns about appearances and shame. A surprisingly hopeful, engaging read, but one that could have done with a trim and a bit more focus in my opinion.
July 11, 2024
If there’s one book that’s made its place to my “2023 favourites” list it’s Anjana Appachana’s Fear and Lovely. I’ve devoured this book from cover to cover, loving every character and their experiences which define a certain time and way of life.
Mallika, is our prime character around whom the plot circulates but she’s not the only character who drives the story. Set in Delhi, this book describes the times during the late 1970s and life of the middle class and upper middle class Delhi folks. Randhir, Arnav and Mallika create a relatable, realistic and empathetic account of friendship, desire, grief, ambition, mental issues, coping mechanisms, family pressure and expectations, gossip, opinion on politics through the perspectives of these young characters trying to navigate their way in the world.
These ordinary elements beautifully carve a growing path where secrets unveil and relationships change course. Details on the mundane and “everydayness” of life are brilliantly witty and sarcastic in the right measures. They never fail to bring a smile, some chuckling and chortling moments, sadness but eventually a feeling of satiety.
Don’t fear the length of this book, it captures the essence of the growing up in its pages.
Verdict: Totally Recommended! 🧡
Mallika, is our prime character around whom the plot circulates but she’s not the only character who drives the story. Set in Delhi, this book describes the times during the late 1970s and life of the middle class and upper middle class Delhi folks. Randhir, Arnav and Mallika create a relatable, realistic and empathetic account of friendship, desire, grief, ambition, mental issues, coping mechanisms, family pressure and expectations, gossip, opinion on politics through the perspectives of these young characters trying to navigate their way in the world.
These ordinary elements beautifully carve a growing path where secrets unveil and relationships change course. Details on the mundane and “everydayness” of life are brilliantly witty and sarcastic in the right measures. They never fail to bring a smile, some chuckling and chortling moments, sadness but eventually a feeling of satiety.
Don’t fear the length of this book, it captures the essence of the growing up in its pages.
Verdict: Totally Recommended! 🧡
November 11, 2024
This book reminded me of The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store - lots of characters, story told from different perspectives. At points I found the different perspectives annoying and repetitive but as I finished the book I appreciated the different points of view. Still multiple perspectives probably makes this a tad bit too long and too slow.
In essence, it is a love story with some mental health issues layered in. Some of the characters and perspectives are too “Bollywood” and I felt like shaking some of the characters and saying - “dude - snap out of it”. None of the sub plots were wrapped up but somehow it didn’t feel annoying - it’s almost a choose your own adventure kind of open ended ending even though you have a pretty good sense of how it will play out. Even though you think some of the characters choices are silly you are rooting for all of them by the end of the book.
I grew up in the 80s in India and the best part of the book is depiction of growing up in India in the 70s and 80s. Was written without any of the westernizing of that era and book gets 5 stars just for that.
Dragged a bit at points but enjoyed it.
In essence, it is a love story with some mental health issues layered in. Some of the characters and perspectives are too “Bollywood” and I felt like shaking some of the characters and saying - “dude - snap out of it”. None of the sub plots were wrapped up but somehow it didn’t feel annoying - it’s almost a choose your own adventure kind of open ended ending even though you have a pretty good sense of how it will play out. Even though you think some of the characters choices are silly you are rooting for all of them by the end of the book.
I grew up in the 80s in India and the best part of the book is depiction of growing up in India in the 70s and 80s. Was written without any of the westernizing of that era and book gets 5 stars just for that.
Dragged a bit at points but enjoyed it.
November 27, 2024
One of the most boring, long-winded, illogical and frustrating books I’ve ever read. The constant re-telling of the same plot from 5 different character POVs was a terrible literacy choice. Not the mention the heavily problematic plot line of a a woman experiencing attempted rape who then “chooses” to have sex with the man who saves her after they both get high. Then she has a fall and has amnesia, followed by a miscarriage a few months later and the man just keeps his mouth shut the entire time that this woman is suffering. Just completely illogical and awful.
The side characters’ plot lines were also similarly boring and problematic.
And the title has nothing to do with the story other sounding like the infamous Indian whitening cream “Fair and Lovely”. Very weird choice for the book title. I was hoping this South Asian writer would give us a unique, intriguing story but nope. Just f*cking terrible all around. I literally read it to put myself to sleep on nights I couldn’t fall asleep. That was the only reason I didn’t chuck it after the first few chapters. But I will be donating it ASAP because it is not a book I would recommend to any of my fellow bookworm friends.
The side characters’ plot lines were also similarly boring and problematic.
And the title has nothing to do with the story other sounding like the infamous Indian whitening cream “Fair and Lovely”. Very weird choice for the book title. I was hoping this South Asian writer would give us a unique, intriguing story but nope. Just f*cking terrible all around. I literally read it to put myself to sleep on nights I couldn’t fall asleep. That was the only reason I didn’t chuck it after the first few chapters. But I will be donating it ASAP because it is not a book I would recommend to any of my fellow bookworm friends.
June 22, 2023
Fear and lovely.
Love love love this book.
Nuances of daily life in India are told from a different perspective that evokes fun. An attempt to tell a heartfelt story from a brilliant humorous perspective.
I love the intricacies of Indian social life, friendship, love, care, and abundance, author Anjana created a beautiful tapestry of life narrated in a very engaging style.
This story starts in 1970's India, Anjana Appachana drew middle-class and upper-middle-class society around our protagonist Mallika, who is introverted and shy. Heartfelt story knitted around her aunt and her three best friends. She discovers her life is complicated by secrets that she, her mother, and her aunt work hard to keep.
After suffering a trauma aged nineteen, Mallika loses three days of her memory and slowly spirals into a deep depression. She must find a way out of this abyss, back to herself and those she cares about. But she must also hide her mental illness from her community.
The complexities of Mallika's life, her ambition, her dream and nightmares, her relationship, and her friendships with three men, everything unfurled slowly.
The story is narrated from Mallika's point of view. I loved Anjana's witty take on every single thing from our daily life, and to present it in a different manner it takes huge efficiency and grip on words. The author here literally played with her prose and linguistic behavior.
It's a story of courage that is portrayed with love and a well-moderated pace with a dash of poignant posture that is perfectly blended with stunning humor.
Highly recommended and loved this book.
Love love love this book.
Nuances of daily life in India are told from a different perspective that evokes fun. An attempt to tell a heartfelt story from a brilliant humorous perspective.
I love the intricacies of Indian social life, friendship, love, care, and abundance, author Anjana created a beautiful tapestry of life narrated in a very engaging style.
This story starts in 1970's India, Anjana Appachana drew middle-class and upper-middle-class society around our protagonist Mallika, who is introverted and shy. Heartfelt story knitted around her aunt and her three best friends. She discovers her life is complicated by secrets that she, her mother, and her aunt work hard to keep.
After suffering a trauma aged nineteen, Mallika loses three days of her memory and slowly spirals into a deep depression. She must find a way out of this abyss, back to herself and those she cares about. But she must also hide her mental illness from her community.
The complexities of Mallika's life, her ambition, her dream and nightmares, her relationship, and her friendships with three men, everything unfurled slowly.
The story is narrated from Mallika's point of view. I loved Anjana's witty take on every single thing from our daily life, and to present it in a different manner it takes huge efficiency and grip on words. The author here literally played with her prose and linguistic behavior.
It's a story of courage that is portrayed with love and a well-moderated pace with a dash of poignant posture that is perfectly blended with stunning humor.
Highly recommended and loved this book.
September 1, 2023
A literary fiction novel that I have heard so much about for a while now. I was so pleased when I could read it!
Set in New Delhi, India, over the late 1970s and early 80s. A novel that's cleverly character driven. Told from multiple viewpoints, I found every character so well created and unique that I could envision them as I read.
A book that deals with issues that are so sensitively handled. I felt like I was in India with Mallika, and I have never visited, but I felt like I was armchair travelling with Anjana Appachana's vivid descriptions throughout.
It's a story that encapsulates every emotion. It's emotional, sad, but also uplifting, and the author even brings threads of humour throughout.
Fear and Lovely is a novel that buries itself in your heart as you read, and by the time you have finished, it stays there. I still think about this book even now, and it's been a while since I finished reading it. It's one of my favourite reads of 2023.
Thanks to Verve Books for the gifted copy to write my honest review.
Set in New Delhi, India, over the late 1970s and early 80s. A novel that's cleverly character driven. Told from multiple viewpoints, I found every character so well created and unique that I could envision them as I read.
A book that deals with issues that are so sensitively handled. I felt like I was in India with Mallika, and I have never visited, but I felt like I was armchair travelling with Anjana Appachana's vivid descriptions throughout.
It's a story that encapsulates every emotion. It's emotional, sad, but also uplifting, and the author even brings threads of humour throughout.
Fear and Lovely is a novel that buries itself in your heart as you read, and by the time you have finished, it stays there. I still think about this book even now, and it's been a while since I finished reading it. It's one of my favourite reads of 2023.
Thanks to Verve Books for the gifted copy to write my honest review.
April 2, 2025
The title definitely rings a bell with most in our country - the framework within which lie the expectations of and from women, even today. The title could also be interpreted, as the more fearful women are, the lovelier they get - easier to manipulate and subjugate.
Fear and Lovely by Anjana Appachana, is a mirror to life in India, set in Delhi of the 70s - reading it in the present, one realises, the more things change, the more they remain the same.
Mallika, her mother, aunt and friends, around whom the story revolves, struggle through societal perceptions around respectability, marriage, mental health and parental pressures vs children's choices. The deployment of veils to maintain acceptability in the social milieu and to keep relationships going, inevitably drop, exposing the fissures.
While much is right about the idea of the book, it's the execution which falters. No character stands out for a special mention. However, it did generate a very animated discussion in our group. The strong parallels to real life and the supportive strength of relationships struck a chord.
Fear and Lovely by Anjana Appachana, is a mirror to life in India, set in Delhi of the 70s - reading it in the present, one realises, the more things change, the more they remain the same.
Mallika, her mother, aunt and friends, around whom the story revolves, struggle through societal perceptions around respectability, marriage, mental health and parental pressures vs children's choices. The deployment of veils to maintain acceptability in the social milieu and to keep relationships going, inevitably drop, exposing the fissures.
While much is right about the idea of the book, it's the execution which falters. No character stands out for a special mention. However, it did generate a very animated discussion in our group. The strong parallels to real life and the supportive strength of relationships struck a chord.
April 18, 2023
Absolutely loved Incantations and that was my most favourite book for a long time. I was excited to read Fear and Lovely, and enjoyed the first section very much and see the growing and changing patterns of the relationships in the colony. The book maintains an interesting and tantalising tension about the various events and keeps us guessing as to the traumas and traumatic events in the lives of the young people. It kept me up all night as I couldn't put the book down till page 250 or more. The sights and sounds of 60s Delhi are very evocative. The tortured relationship between the two protagonists dragged a bit in the latter part of the book. However, the fine dileneation of the portraits of the adults, and the many young people coming of age and the atmosphere of the 70s Delhi was deeply engaging and nostalgic too in a way, reading from outisde Delhi. Highly recommend the book.
May 23, 2023
Early in FEAR AND LOVELY, one of the characters tells us that, “any lie you told to protect your loved ones was the truth.” This statement lies at the heart of the novel and explains so much about what happens to the characters, especially young Mallika. Through her gorgeous prose—at turns witty and heart-breaking—Anjana Appachana draws out multi-layered characters who drive the narrative from their own perspectives. Though set in 1970s India, the story shines a light on universal truths: the complicated tension between tradition and modernity, the fraught relationships between mothers and daughters, the blurry lines between friends and lovers, and a family’s well-meaning (but often disastrous) attempts to protect its standing in the community. FEAR AND LOVELY is a brave and beautiful cautionary tale about the corrosive impact of unaddressed trauma and the healing power of love.
May 21, 2024
I am not sure how to review this book, and therefore I am just going to just leave my thoughts as they are in my mind.
I liked the pace. I liked the overall story. I liked the depiction of a Delhi neighbourhood - the helpful aunties and gossip that come along with them. In many ways, it's a picture of growing up. I also liked how mental health attitudes in Indian society are accurately portrayed along with the aftereffects of trauma and the battle with depression.
But the power of these positives was hugely diminished by the endless repetition of incidents. Appachana is probably trying to give different points of views to a particular incident but it just felt so tedious. At times, I struggled to understand who is speaking what.
I kept reading this book only to know what eventually happens. And I really, really was disappointed with the ending. It wasn't lovely at all.
Not on my "please read now" list.
I liked the pace. I liked the overall story. I liked the depiction of a Delhi neighbourhood - the helpful aunties and gossip that come along with them. In many ways, it's a picture of growing up. I also liked how mental health attitudes in Indian society are accurately portrayed along with the aftereffects of trauma and the battle with depression.
But the power of these positives was hugely diminished by the endless repetition of incidents. Appachana is probably trying to give different points of views to a particular incident but it just felt so tedious. At times, I struggled to understand who is speaking what.
I kept reading this book only to know what eventually happens. And I really, really was disappointed with the ending. It wasn't lovely at all.
Not on my "please read now" list.
November 13, 2023
Very few books receive a five star rating from me - I cherished every word of this beautiful story. Each character is more than three dimensional; Anjana lets us so deep into the chasms of every character’s mind, laying their soul bare by intimately describing their deepest hopes, dreams, and fears. A compelling, unable to put down story that combines haunting and ugly truths of certain traditions and family customs with the beauty and hope of unconditional love. Cannot say enough wonderful things!
March 12, 2024
Wow this was a long one and very wordy but held my interest throughout. I enjoyed the tone that it was written in. It was light but a lot of serious underlying themes. Mental illness, sexuality, poverty and sexism and female abuse in India.
I really enjoyed how character driven the book was. I really enjoyed reading the different chapters from different perspectives. Glad it had a sweet and happy ending even though some things were left unsaid which I guess was the point of book. We're all Just telling the story that we want known.
I really enjoyed how character driven the book was. I really enjoyed reading the different chapters from different perspectives. Glad it had a sweet and happy ending even though some things were left unsaid which I guess was the point of book. We're all Just telling the story that we want known.
April 16, 2024
Definitely one of my favorites of this year and maybe even of all time. It took a second to figure out what's going on, with the multitudes of intertwined storylines, skipping forwards and backwards, but the depth of the characters, the storyline of each and every one of them... Kept me wanting to know more and more, which led to my ultimate heartbreak - it ended and I was dying to know what would have happened next. Such a good moment to stop. And I'm so devastated I'll never know 😭
June 26, 2025
The characters and main storyline were good, and the effect of having to hide things is the norm with Indian mentality. Seeing the effect it then has on people
I felt it was repetitive a lot when they gave the other characters perspective. Although sometimes it was good flow, sometimes it was just repeat reading.
The ending was disappointing 😞 but cute as well.
The story could have been heavily condensed !
I felt it was repetitive a lot when they gave the other characters perspective. Although sometimes it was good flow, sometimes it was just repeat reading.
The ending was disappointing 😞 but cute as well.
The story could have been heavily condensed !
May 16, 2023
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
New Delhi in the 1970s is the backdrop for this engaging story of a family and their trials to make a good life for themselves. The treatment of women and the hiding of mental health issues makes this eye-opening account of India, and especially of the character Mallika and her challenges in this environment.
New Delhi in the 1970s is the backdrop for this engaging story of a family and their trials to make a good life for themselves. The treatment of women and the hiding of mental health issues makes this eye-opening account of India, and especially of the character Mallika and her challenges in this environment.
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