A New World Romance

A New World Romance by Susham Bedi, translated into English by Astri Ghosh, is a literary novel about unexpected love, cultural identity, memory, and belonging. The story follows Ketaki and Aditya, two established academics living in different American cities who, despite having previous relationships behind them, unexpectedly develop a deep romantic connection. Their relationship unfolds against the continuing influence of the homeland they left behind, creating a thoughtful exploration of love and life between two worlds.

As Ketaki and Aditya navigate their changing relationship, the novel considers how migration, cultural memory, and personal history can shape emotional choices and ideas of home. The contrast between the “new world” of their present lives and the “old world” of their past adds depth to their search for companionship and connection.

About This Book

The novel begins with an accidental meeting at an academic seminar and develops into a relationship neither character expected to pursue. Both have established professional lives and experiences of marriage and romance behind them, yet their connection challenges their assumptions about love and companionship.

Through their evolving relationship, Susham Bedi examines the emotional complexities of living away from one's homeland. Memories, cultural heritage, and the experiences associated with the past remain present even as the characters build lives in the United States. Astri Ghosh's English translation brings this story of cross-cultural relationships and emotional connection to a wider readership.

What You'll Discover

• An unexpected relationship between two established academics living in the United States
• The tension between the “new world” and the homeland left behind
• Questions of identity, belonging, memory, and cultural heritage
• The emotional possibilities of love and companionship later in life
• The influence of migration and personal history on relationships
• Themes of second chances, resilience, and personal transformation
• A literary exploration of relationships across cultures and continents

Perfect For

• Readers of literary fiction
• Fans of contemporary romance
• Readers interested in translated literature
• Readers of South Asian literature
• Readers interested in diaspora and immigrant stories
• Readers who enjoy stories about identity, belonging, and relationships

Why You'll Love This Book

A New World Romance offers a reflective portrayal of love that develops unexpectedly while examining the lasting relationship between personal history, cultural identity, and a new life abroad. With its focus on Ketaki and Aditya's emotional connection and the worlds that shape them, the novel will appeal to readers seeking literary fiction with themes of romance, migration, memory, and belonging.