Melbourne-based film researcher Suneeti Rekhari launches her first book The Lost Souls Dating Agency
I believe the book would resonate with the Indian community, particularly teens who can find a character they can hopefully relate to
She started out as just an ordinary university student, but the sudden and unexpected inheritance of an unused warehouse on the industrial side of town throws Shalini’s life plan askew. She decides to set up a matchmaking business, helping the lonely to find a soul mate. But her first client doesn’t fit the regular profile. Victor is dark, handsome, emotionally available… and a vampire. And there begins this rather ‘spirited’ tale by Suneeti Rekhari.
Set in Melbourne, Rekhari’s The Lost Souls Dating Agency, a book for young adults, is a fresh and funny story about an enterprising matchmaker and her paranormal clientele.
“I believe the book would resonate with the Indian community, particularly teens who can find a character they can hopefully relate to,” says Rekhari, who calls Australia her adopted homeland, having lived in the country for over a decade.
“We need to hear more voices from the Indian community, so to any budding Indian-English writers out there, I would say, just write what you know, from the heart! It’s the only way to enjoy this craft, and to connect with readers. That’s what it’s ultimately about isn’t it?”
Rekhari says her interest in the non-human paranormal world was inspired by books on mythology and the whole pantheon of Amar ChitraKathas which she read as a child. “I asked myself, why should humans have a monopoly on love? I decided Shalini should arrange matches for the non-human paranormal community,” says Rekhari, who is also a film researcher and an activist against domestic violence.
Rekhari’s book is published by Escape Publishing, the digital division of Harlequin Australia. The book is available online from Amazon,iBooks, BigW e books, kobo and GooglePlay.
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
