Once Upon a Curfew by Srishti Chaudhary - Book Review

Once Upon a Curfew by Srishti Chaudhary is one of those books that brings a wave of nostalgia, set in a rooted Indian backdrop I hadn’t read in a while. It felt like a breath of fresh air, unexpected in the best way.

Set in 1974, the story follows Indira (Indu), a young woman in her early 20s, who, along with her sister, inherits a flat from their grandmother. She dreams of opening a library there, but naturally, her family has other plans. Still, she pushes forward with quiet determination, helped by her friend Rana. Her fiancé, Rajat, is in London, and as she and Rana work together, sparks begin to fly, subtle and slow-burn.

It’s a clean romance, filled with old-school charm. Indu herself is a die-hard Rajesh Khanna fan, which adds to the vintage vibe. And just as things begin falling into place, the emergency is declared by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, shifting the mood of the story.

What I loved most was how it captures both the political unrest of the time and the personal journey of a woman trying to make her own space in the world. It's breezy, emotional, and quietly empowering, with writing that feels simple yet full of warmth.

10/10 & recommended to bollywood fans, and to anyone who wants to read a nostalgic yet fun book.

Where to buy : https://amzn.to/3FUeMGB

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