Penguin announces a powerful migration story rich with the tangled intricacies of Indian and American lives
We are thrilled to introduce Missy, a debut novel by Raghav Rao—a powerful migration story rich with the tangled intricacies of Indian and American lives. Set against the backdrop of St. Ursula’s convent in Madras, Missy tells the story of seventeen-year-old Savi, whose rebellious spirit drives her to dream of a life beyond the nunnery. But destiny has other plans. Raghav Rao takes readers on a breathtaking journey across time and continents, creating a narrative that is more than just a book—it is a symphony of secrets, sacrifice, and survival.
At the heart of Missy is an unlikely heroine. Savi, originally destined for a life of servitude, harbors dreams far beyond the convent walls. Her linguistic talents and fierce determination lead her to escape, with Ananda, her lover, playing a pivotal role in shaping her future. Their story culminates in Chicago, the city where Savi’s dreams finally take flight.
From Convent Walls to Chicago Halls: The Rise of Missy
Forty years later, Savi is now Missy—a successful businesswoman and a cornerstone of Chicago’s South Asian community. But when Dr. Varun enters her life, her carefully constructed world begins to unravel. Will Missy’s past catch up with her, or will she maintain her hard-earned facade?
From the Bay of Bengal to the shores of Lake Michigan, Missy traces the incredible life of a woman who escapes her solitary, powerless and violent past, and recreates herself in the land of opportunity.
Missy is far from a typical immigrant story. Rao explores the tension between tradition and modernity, while also delving into the complexities of Missy’s dual roles as an entrepreneur and a single mother. Her daughters, Mansi and Shilpa, add further depth to the narrative, highlighting the generational struggles and the clash of social classes.
Missy’s journey reflects the achievements of many Indian women, both in India and America, who navigate the delicate balance between professional success and family responsibilities. Rao’s novel is a rich exploration of migration, redemption, and the enduring power of forgiveness. An extraordinary and captivating debut, Missy is an exploration of the immigrant experience as well as a haunting tale about the impossibility of escaping the shadow of the past.
We are excited to share that Missy will be released this September and will be available at major bookstores, online platforms, and independent retailers. We would be honored if you could help us champion this remarkable debut. Your support would mean everything to us.
About the Author:
Raghav Rao was born in Mumbai and spent his formative years in London, Los Angeles, and South India. A graduate of the University of Chicago and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he enjoys bird-watching, playing squash, and biking along Lake Michigan. Missy is his first novel.
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