Penguin Random House is delighted to present the MOST PROMISING LITERARY DEBUT OF 2024
– Penguin Random House

Introducing The Scent of Fallen Stars by Aishwarya Jha releasing on 22 April 2024. Set against the backdrop of India’s mid-1990s liberalization, this evocative literary masterpiece takes readers on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery, love, and the search for belonging.

In this mesmerizing tale, thirty-six-year-old Will arrives in New Delhi, seeking solace from the collapse of his academic dreams and the stifling confines of expat life. Amidst the monsoon rains, he encounters the enigmatic Leela, whose presence ignites a passionate and devastating affair that will change both of their lives forever.

Twenty-three years later, Aria arrives in the same city on a quest to uncover the truth about her mother, whom she believed to be dead. As she unravels the mysteries of her family’s past – from a doomed love affair to the shores of asceticism – Aria discovers that the secrets buried in her mother’s past have far-reaching consequences that will reshape her own future.

“The Scent of Fallen Stars“ is a spellbinding exploration of identity, culture, and the interconnectedness of lives. Through richly drawn characters and lyrical prose, Jha invites readers to delve into the depths of human emotion and the complexities of love and loss.

“This novel is a labor of love, inspired by my fascination with India’s rich tapestry of culture and history,” says author Aishwarya Jha. “I hope that readers will find solace and inspiration in the journeys of Will and Aria as they navigate the complexities of their own lives.”

The novel paints a vivid portrait of the intricate tapestry of life, where every individual’s story is intertwined with others’. As readers immerse themselves in the story, they are compelled to ponder the universal truths of existence. Jha’s masterful storytelling transcends boundaries, resonating with readers on a deeply emotional level. “The Scent of Fallen Stars” stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature to illuminate the human experience.

About the author

Aishwarya Jha is a writer, designer and entrepreneur from New Delhi. A mentee at the Asian Women Writers programme, her poetry, short fiction and essays have been published in numerous literary journals and an anthology at Oxford University. She has also written, directed and starred in a plethora of one-act plays, which have been performed around the world. Aishwarya lives with her family and an army of dogs.