Summary

Arush, a nerdy guy, and a British citizen of Indian origins, steps into India first time to volunteer for an Arts educational program.  Puja, a confused Kochi girl with wealthy and successful parents, is yet to face the harsh realities of life and find her way in this life. Although very different, their energies are magnetic. Will opposites attract or repel?

My Review

I always wanted to read a Preeti Shenoy book. And I am glad I picked up this light and quick read. The book begins with a journal entry in Puja’s book. The chapters switch between narratives by Arush and Puja. There are also two chapters, one in the beginning and one in the end by Chaitra, Puja’s mom.

I loved reading Chaitra’s perspective towards the end of the book. As a mother to a kid myself, I could relate to the dilemma women face when juggling family and work. “At what stage in a child’s life can a mother pursue her own dreams, her own career?” she asks. I loved that on her return to Kochi towards the end, it was her mother Puja hugged first.

Another bit I loved in the book was the fun banter between Puja and Arush. It made me smile when reading. The author’s daughter Purvi has also done a few illustrations in the book. Although they all face backward, they are beautiful. The story is faced paced, relatable, and bitter-sweet.

I would have loved a little more descriptive writing in When Love Came Calling. For starters, the author never elaborated in detail about the beauty of Kochi and its beaches. The Eddakkal caves' beauty that all the teenagers' trek to was summarized in a couple of blog statements. A paragraph about their beauty would have added to the story’s allure.

In my opinion, the descriptive narration would have added and enhanced the beauty of this romance novel. And would also have described India beyond thugs and crowds and shabbiness.

Final Verdict

A story of typical, rebellious teenagers, with a mind of their own, facing typical Indian parental pressures about education and government systems and the works. The story is mushy, but it's not an unforgettable saga. 

For want of more lyrical writing, I rate When Love Came Calling three and a half stars. Preeti Shenoy has many more books you can better explore to appreciate her writing.

Who Should Read This

I recommend this book to young adult romance readers looking for a clean, simple love story and a quick read.

Happy Reading!

Other Books by Preeti Shenoy