Westland Books has announced the Indian publication of The Others, the latest novel by acclaimed author Sheena Kalayil, under its literary imprint Context. Longlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction 2026, the novel will be released in India on July 24.

Set against the backdrop of the fall of the Berlin Wall, The Others explores themes of love, identity and displacement through the lives of three young people brought together in East Germany in 1989. The story follows Armando, a factory worker from Mozambique, Lolita, a medical student from India, and Theo, an aspiring writer from East Berlin, whose friendship is tested as political upheaval and personal relationships become deeply intertwined.

The novel begins with Armando and Lolita making a shocking discovery that draws them further into the political realities of East Germany. As revolution sweeps across Eastern Europe and the Berlin Wall stands on the brink of collapse, the trio finds themselves caught in a complex love triangle that reshapes their lives and futures.

Described by the publisher as “a tender exploration of identity and intimacy,” The Others blends historical events with deeply personal journeys, examining how political change leaves a lasting imprint on individual lives.

Sheena Kalayil is the author of four novels, including The Bureau of Second Chances, which won the Writers’ Guild Award for Best First Novel (2018). Her subsequent novels include The Inheritance and The Wild Wind, inspired by her childhood between India and Zambia. Having worked in countries including Nepal, Mozambique, Tunisia and Venezuela, Kalayil has lived in the UK since 2002 and currently teaches at the University of Manchester.

The Others has received widespread critical acclaim. Women’s Prize for Fiction judge Cariad Lloyd described it as “a gripping story of love and imagination,” while novelist Jonathan Lethem praised its rich characters, emotional depth and historical authenticity. The Hindu called it “a cathartic reckoning,” highlighting its exploration of identity, belonging and freedom.

With the Indian edition of The Others, Westland Books continues to expand its award-winning literary list, bringing internationally recognised contemporary fiction to readers in India.