Chandigarh, November 1: Author Shrijeet Shandilya’s latest novel Can We Be Strangers Again? has struck a chord with young readers for its realistic portrayal of heartbreak, friendship and the fragile lines that separate love from loss.
Set against the backdrop of college life and pandemic isolation, the book follows Dev, a young student whose relationships with Avantika and Tanishka force him to confront betrayal and emotional closure. Through his journey, Shandilya explores the question that gives the novel its title—whether people who once meant everything can truly return to being strangers.
Published earlier this year, the book has drawn praise for its relatable tone and modern setting. “The novel captures the bittersweet experience of growing up and moving on in a digital world,” noted one reviewer on Goodreads, adding that its accessible language and short chapters make it an easy, emotional read.
However, critics have pointed out that while the story’s emotions resonate, character development and narrative flow sometimes falter. The female leads, some reviewers said, “deserve stronger voices,” and parts of the plot feel predictable.
Despite mixed reviews, Can We Be Strangers Again? continues to find an audience among college readers and fans of light romance fiction. With its themes of love, loss and rediscovery, the book reflects a generation still learning how to heal from connections that once felt unbreakable.
