Books by Renita D'Silva

Monsoon Memories is an unforgettable journey through a mesmerizing, passionate land of contrasts – with a family whose story will touch your heart.Anyone who enjoys the storytelling of Jodi Picoult, Diane Chamberlain, or Dorothy Koomson will love this.Exiled from her family in India for more than a decade, Shirin and her husband lead a comfortable but empty life in London. Memories of her childhood – exotic fragrances, colours, stifling heat and tropical storms – fill Shirin with a familiar and growing ache for the land and the people that she loves. With the recollections though, come dark clouds of scandal and secrets. Secrets that forced her to flee her old life and keep her from ever returning.Thousands of miles away, in Bangalore, the daughter of Shirin’s brother discovers a lost, forgotten photograph. One that has escaped the flames. Determined to solve the mystery of an aunt she never knew, Reena’s efforts will set in place a chain of events that expose the painful trauma of the past and irrevocably change the path of the future.Praise for Monsoon Memories‘D'Silva weaves a tale so rich and complex in detail and history that I found it quite impossible to put the book down. The details are rich, vivid and so well described that I truly felt at times that I was there or at least was hearing the story first hand from the main character... from start to finish I loved this book and couldn't recommend it more.’ 5/5.NovelEscapes‘It mesmerized me with its poignant narration and heart-warming story and kept me hooked until the last page. 9/10.ChickLitClub‘A wonderfully dramatic and poignant debut novel from Renita D’Silva. I was captivated by the characters and their plight.'MomssmallvictoriesOver 21,000 copies soldRenita grew up in a picturesque coastal village in the South of India, the oldest of three children. Her father got her first story books when she was six and she fell in love with the world of stories. Even now she prefers that world, by far, to this.

‘Your mother has been arrested. She stole you.’For as long as thirteen-year-old Diya can remember, it’s always been just her and her mum, Vani. Despite never staying in one place long enough to call it home, with her mother by her side, Diya has never needed anything else.Then, in an instant, Diya’s fragile world is shattered. Her mother is arrested, accused of abducting Diya when she was a baby...Vani has spent a lifetime looking over her shoulder, determined to make the best possible life for her daughter. Now she must fight for her child, re-opening the door to her own childhood in India and the woman who was once as close to her as a sister.Told through the eyes of Diya, Vani and Aarti, this is a heartbreaking story of friendship and betrayal, love and motherhood, which asks the question; how far would you go to protect your only child?The Stolen Girl is an emotional, culturally rich and utterly compelling read from the new must-read name in women's fiction—Renita D'Silva. Perfect for fans of Sharron Maas, Clare Flynn and Catherine Hokin.What people are saying about Renita D’Silva:‘With a heart-breaking story, wonderful characters and such raw emotion D’Silva had me hooked. A beautiful story. Best Books to Read‘Renita D'Silva is a genius at evoking the sounds, sights and aromas of India. A major new talent- I can't wait for her next novel.' Linda Kavanagh‘Renita D’Silva is a wonderful author who has a natural gift at storytelling that truly impressed and awed me.’ Novel Escapes‘Renita paints the most beautiful images with a few, perfectly chosen words’. KimTalksBooks.com‘The Stolen Girl’ is a heart-breaking story about friendship, betrayal, possessiveness, love and motherhood.’ 5/5 A Lover of BooksOver 22,000 copies soldRenita grew up in a picturesque coastal village in the South of India, the oldest of three children. Her father got her first story books when she was six and she fell in love with the world of stories. Even now she prefers that world, by far, to this.

She allows herself to kiss her perfect child just once. She wraps the baby in her last gift: a hand-knitted cardigan, embroidered with a water lily pattern. ';You're better off without me,' she whispers and although every step breaks her heart, she walks away. 1910, India. Young and curious Alice, with her spun-gold hair, grows up in her family's sprawling compound with parents as remote as England, the cold country she has never seen. It is Raju, son of a servant, with whom she shares her secrets. Together, their love grows like roses but leaves deep thorns. Because when they get too close, Alice's father drags them apart, sending Raju far away and banishing Alice to England 1944. Intelligent and kind Janaki is raised in an orphanage in India. The nuns love to tell the story: Janaki's arrival stopped the independence riots outside the gates, as the men on both sides gazed at the starry-eyed little girl left in a beautiful hand-knitted cardigan. Janaki longs for her real mother, the woman who was forced to abandon her, wrapped in a precious gift Now old enough to be a grandmother and living alone in India, Alice watches children play under the tamarind trees, haunted by the terrible mistake she made fifty years ago. It's just an ordinary afternoon, until a young girl with familiar eyes appears with a photograph and Alice must make a choice. Will she spend the rest of her life consumed by dreams of the past, or can she admit her mistakes and choose love and light at last? A stunning and heartbreaking novel about how a forbidden love can echo through the generations. Readers who love Lucinda Riley, Kathryn Hughes and The Storyteller's Secret will be captivated. Readers absolutely adore The Orphan's Gift:';Utterly spellbinding and so beautifully written Will draw you in and immediately transport you This heart-warming and heartbreaking novel is a story of friendship, of love, of tragedy and loss I absolutely LOVED it as I have ALL of Renita's novels Couldn't put it down and as always the tissues were definitely needed.' NetGalley Reviewer ';So beautiful!... As I was reading, I was crying Well written and the characters were really brought to life.' Goodreads Reviewer ';Wow! This was an incredible story Fantastic and the emotions were so real.' Goodreads Reviewer ';I kept turning the pages until my eyes blurred. I just wanted to hear how all of the stories would come together Look forward to checking out her other books!' Goodreads Reviewer ';Could not put this book down, a real page-turner. Definitely will be recommending this book to other readers, love to read more books from this author.' Goodre

How much would you sacrifice to save your family?1929. When a passionate love affair threatens to leave Lucy in disgrace, she chooses a respectable marriage over a life of shame. With her husband, coffee-plantation-owner James, she travels to her new home in India, leaving her troubled past behind her. Everything in India is new to Lucy, from the jewel-coloured fabrics to the exotic spices. When her path crosses that of Gowri, a young woman who tends the temple on the plantations edge, Lucy is curious to find out more about her, and the events that lead her to live in isolation from her family Now. With her career in shatters and her heart broken by the man she thought was her future, Kavya flees from bustling Mumbai to her home town. A crumbling temple has been discovered in a village nearby, and with it letters detailing its tragic history desperate pleas from a young woman called Gowri. As Kavya learns of Gowri and Lucys painful story, she begins to understand the terrible sacrifices that were made and the decision the two women took that changed their lives forever. Can the secrets of the past help Kavya to rebuild her life? A breath-taking journey through the rolling hills of India, deep into the secrets hidden within a family. For fans of Santa Montefiore, Dinah Jefferies and Victoria Hislop.Read what everyone is saying about A Daughters Courage:WOW!! I was absolutely blown away by this book and couldnt put it down. Im going straight to Amazon to buy another book by Renita DSilva I need more! Just incredible this is an absolutely stunning book which I cant praise enough. Roxanne Starr, 5 starsSo compelling I literally didnt want to put it down A sheer joy to read and I am putting myself out on a limb by saying this is the best book I have read in this genre this year A truly outstanding book. Best Crime Books and More, 5 starsEvery now and again a book comes along that I can't stop thinking about long after I've turned the last page. A Daughter's Courage was one of those books An absolutely beautiful story I really can't say anything that will adequately describe how much I enjoyed this book so I will just say that I highly recommend it I loved every minute of it. Twin Spin, 5 starsRenita DSilva has done it again Truly sensational story Stunning Remarkable and overwhelming Renitas words are like liquid gold This book even took over my dreams. My mind was completely mesmerised I cannot recommend this book enough. Little Miss No Sleep, 5 starsHeartrending... beautiful... a dream... I did not just love this book, I actually LIVED it. A Daughter's Courage is one of the most beautiful books I've ever read. Relax and Read Book Reviews, 5 starsA story that will keep resonating in my head and heart for a long time It swept me away I cannot do anything but have praise for this book

What if you discovered that everything you knew about yourself was a lie?When pregnant Jaya loses her mother, then her baby son Arun in a tragic cot death, her world crashes down. Overcome by grief and guilt, she begins to search for answers to the enigma of her lonely, distant mother, and her mysterious past in India. Looking through her mothers belongings, she finds two diaries and old photographs, carrying the smoky aroma of fire. A young boy smiles out at Jaya from every photograph and in one, a family stand proudly in front of a sprawling mansion. Who is this child? And why did her mother treasure this memento of a regal family lost to the past? As Jaya starts to read the diaries, their secrets lead her back to India, to the ruin of a once grand house on a hill. There, Kali, a mad old lady, will unlock the story of a devastating lie and a fire that tore a family apart. Nothing though will prepare Jaya for the houses final revelation, which will change everything Jaya knew about herself. If you enjoy Dinah Jefferies, Lucinda Riley and Santa Montefiore, you will love this unforgettable journey through the lush landscape of India to the heart of what it means to be a mother and daughter.What everyone is saying about A Mothers Secret:5 out of 5 starsI read it in one shot because I couldnt bear to stopwhat I can promise you is that it is a great readA book that was an absolute pleasure to read. Any Excuse to ReadI loved this book, the descriptions of India, the mansion, the food and the people are swoon worthy. And the characters are so real, so believable, so frail and fraught with their own mistakes, I felt like I was an observer, watching real people as I read this book. For the Love of BooksI was hooked...I absolutely adored this bookThis won my heart5*. Lauras Book Blog CornerFrom the very beginning A Mothers Secret by Renita DSilva has rightfully bagged its place in my list of favourite booksThe character development is phenomenal and these are characters that will remain etched in my memory for a long timeDSilva weaves magic with her wordsTo say that DSilva is a brilliant writer would not be an exaggerationThere were times during the course of the story that I became aware of goosebumps on my skin because of the very raw emotionswonderful Indian Fiction for You Love, loss, deceit, envy, pride, heartache well-written, entertaining and satisfying. Janni Bs BooksRenitas wonderful writingradiates from the pagesan absorbing storya story that unfolded layer by layer into what proved to be a beautifully crafted piece of writing where the author laid bare her heart and soul on every pagehad me hooked throughouta remarkable booka feast for the senses and your imagination. I really was transportedonce it caught me in its hold it didnt let go until that jaw dropping moment near the very end that had me gasping out loud

An unforgettable and heart-wrenching story of love, betrayal and family secrets. In colonial India a young woman finds herself faced with an impossible choice, the consequences of which will echo through the generations…1928. In British-ruled India, headstrong Sita longs to choose her own path, but her only destiny is a good marriage. After a chance meeting with a Crown Prince leads to a match, her family's status seems secured and she moves into the palace, where peacocks fill the gardens and tapestries adorn the walls. But royal life is far from simple, and her failure to provide an heir makes her position fragile. Soon Sita is on the brink of losing everything, and the only way to save herself could mean betraying her oldest friend…2000. When Priya's marriage ends in heartbreak, she flees home to India and the palace where her grandmother, Sita, once reigned as Queen. But as grandmother and granddaughter grow closer, Priya has questions. Why is Sita so reluctant to accept that her royal status ended with Independence? And who is the mysterious woman who waits patiently at the palace gates day after day? Soon Priya uncovers a secret Sita has kept for years - and which will change the shape of her life forever…A breathtaking journey through India from British rule to Independence and beyond; a world of green hills, cardamom-scented air, and gold thread glinting in the sun, brought to life by Renita D'Silva's exquisite writing. If you love Kathryn Hughes, Dinah Jefferies or Kristin Hannah, this is the novel for you. What readers are saying about Renita D'Silva:'WOW!!… I was absolutely blown away by this book and couldn't put it down. I'm going straight to Amazon to buy another book by Renita D'Silva - I need more! Just incredible… this is an absolutely stunning book which I can't praise enough.' Roxanne Starr, 5 stars'So compelling I literally didn't want to put it down… A sheer joy to read and I am putting myself out on a limb by saying this is the best book I have read in this genre this year… A truly outstanding book.' Best Crime Books and More, 5 stars'Every now and again a book comes along that I can't stop thinking about long after I've turned the last page. A Daughter's Courage was one of those books… An absolutely beautiful story… I really can't say anything that will adequately describe how much I enjoyed this book so I will just say that I highly recommend it… I loved every minute of it.' Twin Spin, 5 stars'Renita D'Silva has done it again… Truly sensational story… Stunning… Remarkable and overwhelming… Renita's words are like liquid gold… This book even took over my dreams. My mind was completely mesmerised… I cannot recommend this book enough.' Little Miss No Sleep, 5 stars'Heartrending... beautiful... a dream... I did not just love this book, I actually LIVED it. A Daughter's Courage is one of the most beautiful books I've ever read.' Relax and Read Book Reviews, 5 stars

'Your mother has been arrested. She stole you.'For as long as thirteen-year-old Diya can remember, it's always been just her and her mum, Vani. Despite never staying in one place long enough to call it home, with her mother by her side, Diya has never needed anything else. Then, in an instant, Diya's fragile world is shattered. Her mother is arrested, accused of abducting Diya when she was a babyVani has spent a lifetime looking over her shoulder, determined to make the best possible life for her daughter. Now she must fight for her child, re-opening the door to her own childhood in India and the woman who was once as close to her as a sister. Told through the eyes of Diya, Vani and Aarti, this is a heart-breaking story of friendship and betrayal, love and motherhood, which asks the question; how far would you go to protect your only child?The Stolen Girl is an emotional, culturally rich and utterly compelling read from the new must-read name in women's fiction-Renita D'Silva. What people are saying about Renita D'Silva:'Renita D'Silva is a genius at evoking the sounds, sights and aromas of India. A major new talent- I can't wait for her next novel.' Linda Kavanagh 'Renita D'Silva is a wonderful author who has a natural gift at storytelling that truly impressed and awed me.' Novel Escapes 'Renita paints the most beautiful images with a few, perfectly chosen words'.

You were adopted.Three simple words, in a letter accompanying her parents' will, tear Nishas carefully ordered world apart. Raised in England, by her caring but emotionally reserved parents, Nisha has never been one to take risks.Now, with the scrawled address of an Indian convent begins a search for the mother and family she never knew and the awakening of childhood memories long forgotten.The secrets, culture and people that Nisha discover will change her life forever. And, as her eyes are opened to a side of herself she didnt know existed, Nisha realizes that she must also seek answers to the hardest question of all why? Weaving together the stories of Nisha, Shilpa and Devi, The Forgotten Daughter explores powerfully and poignantly the emotional themes of motherhood, loss and identity ultimately asking the question of what you would do out of love for your children?Praise for Renita DSilvaRenita D'Silva is a genius at evoking the sounds, sights and aromas of India. A major new talent- I can't wait for her next novel.' Linda KavanaghRenita DSilva is a wonderful author who has a natural gift at storytelling that truly impressed and awed me. Novel EscapesRenita paints the most beautiful images with a few, perfectly chosen words. KimTalksBooks.com

Monsoon Memories is an unforgettable journey through a mesmerizing, passionate land of contrasts with a family whose story will touch your heart.Anyone who enjoys the storytelling of Jodi Picoult, Diane Chamberlain, Heather Gudenkauf or Dorothy Koomson will love Monsoon Memories.from start to finish I loved this book and couldn't recommend it more. NovelEscapes.comExiled from her family in India for more than a decade, Shirin and her husband lead a comfortable but empty life in London. Memories of her childhood exotic fragrances, colours, stifling heat and tropical storms fill Shirin with a familiar and growing ache for the land and the people that she loves. With the recollections though, come dark clouds of scandal and secrets. Secrets that forced her to flee her old life and keep her from ever returning.Thousands of miles away, in Bangalore, the daughter of Shirins brother discovers a lost, forgotten photograph. One that has escaped the flames. Determined to solve the mystery of an aunt she never knew, Reenas efforts will set in place a chain of events that expose the painful trauma of the past and irrevocably change the path of the future.Praise for Monsoon MemoriesD'Silva weaves a tale so rich and complex in detail and history that I found it quite impossible to put the book down. The characters really came to life for me and I grew attached and invested in them and what was going to happen. The details are rich, vivid and so well described that I truly felt at times that I was there or at least was hearing the story first hand from the main character... from start to finish I loved this book and couldn't recommend it more. 5/5.NovelEscapes.comIt mesmerized me with its poignant narration and heart-warming storyand kept me hooked until the last page. 9/10.ChickLitClub.comA wonderfully dramatic and poignant debut novel from Renita DSilva. I was captivated by the characters and their plight. I was intrigued by what deep secret could have torn the family apart. What caused Shirin so much grief that she was haunted by the Eyes that would follow her during her daydreams and nightmares? My heart broke for Shirin, she exiled herself to the UK but longed for her family in India but wondered if they could ever forgive her. I could empathize with young Reena, an only child in India, who stumbled on a photograph of this forgotten woman and was determined to find out more about her. I simply could not put this book down and although I figured out the secret about half way through, I had to know what would happen and if the family could resolve their issues.Momssmallvictories.coma really moving and poignant story. Novelicious.comFull of gorgeously crafted settings and descriptions, youll be pulled into this lush novel. Renita paints the most beautiful images with a few, perfectly chosen words. Monsoon Memories is a book to fall in love with.KimTalksBooks.comMonsoon Memories by Renita DSilva is an honest, captivating peek at the human heart, the haunting power of memories and the fierce power of truth