The life of a woman typically encompasses loss and longing, despair and courage, love. She Never Looks Quite Back murmurs of such experiences. The stories depict themes of growing up, social unrest, nature, war, migration, reconciliation, and the pandemic. The narratives allow glimpses into lives conflicted by chance and choice…women who find themselves in extraordinary circumstances, yet never giving up. This debut collection reveals women’s unquenchable thirst for life. Mallika Naguran's lyrical style of writing amplifies the fragility of humans while bringing into play metaphorical connection and intervention. The tales are timeless yet prick at many of today’s issues.