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A Novel
Penguin Books
June 2026
On Sale: June 16, 2026
320 pages
ISBN: 0593834224
EAN: 9780593834220
Kindle: B0FRFTQT7F
Hardcover / e-Book / audiobook
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Fiction Family Life
Family drama meets romantic comedy when a young woman’s new boyfriend accidentally shows up to a two-week-long family wedding, kicking off a comedy of errors in this funny, vibrant, and heartwarming debut
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 chaotic 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 memories of the difficult years after her parents died. As old grievances and new secrets arise—along with nosy aunties—will Simran be able to finally have her own love story, and find the closure she’s been looking for on her past?
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.
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