Project Description

In Louisiana Catch, a grieving daughter and abuse survivor must summon the courage to run a feminist conference, trust a man she meets over the internet, and escape a catfishing stalker to find her power.
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PRAISES
“This book will be a welcome addition to modern-day discussions of women’s rights, multiculturalism, and online technologies.” – Saadia Faruqi, New York Journal of Books
“Raw, real, and profoundly moving, this is a very fine novel that begs for continuation in the form of a series. Sweta’s honors are well earned.” – Grady Harp, San Francisco Review of Books
“Louisiana Catch is an emotionally immersive novel by Sweta Srivastava Vikram about identity, shame, and who we project ourselves to be in the world. An extraordinary and entertaining read from cover to cover, Louisiana Catch is unreservedly recommended.” – Midwest Review
“Louisiana Catch wasn’t at all what I expected, but I couldn’t put it down. Ahana is a strong, multi-faceted female, and I loved how Vikram wove her Indian heritage throughout the book. This novel tackles major issues like abuse, relationships, and the dangers of online romance while sending readers on a splendid, fast-paced thrill ride.” – Seattle Book Review
“Louisiana Catch perfectly captures what it means to be human in a digital world, where support groups meet online, love interests flirt on Twitter, and people get confused with personas. Equal parts tender and playful, moving and hopeful, Vikram’s prose connects us with timeless truths about grief and redemption in a satisfyingly modern way.” – Stephanie Paterik, Managing Editor, Adweek
“Louisiana Catch is a triumph. In Ahana, Sweta Vikram has created an unforgettable character, strong, wise, and deeply human, who’ll inspire a new generation struggling to come to terms with their identity in a world of blurring identities.”
– Karan Bajaj, New York Times bestselling author, The Yoga of Max’s Discontent
“Across the pond, poet Sweta Vikram’s second novel, Louisana Catch is timely in the wake of #MeToo. A grieving daughter and abuse survivor must summon the courage to run a conference to raise awareness of violence against women. We’re huge fans of Vikram’s poetry, where she deftly handles big themes and issues, and expect no less from this novel. ” – Farhana Shaikh, The Asian Writer
Downloads
Instructor’s Manual (pdf)
Press Kit (pdf)
Order Louisiana Catch Now!
On Amazon (US)
On Amazon (India)
On Barnes & Noble
On Audible
On iTunes
“It is to her considerable credit—and our good fortune—that Sweta Vikram has written a book so appropriate, and relevant for today. Louisiana Catch is not a cynical attempt to follow trends; rather it’s a deeply felt and vividly rendered interrogation of the now (which, in its weird and wonderful way, is at once fleeting and infinite). Vikram has written a humane book about actual human beings, and if that’s not something to savor, and celebrate, in a world that’s increasingly sound-bite sized and ephemeral, I don’t know what is.” – Sean Murphy, Author, Please Talk About Me When I’m Gone
“Louisiana Catch is perfectly relevant and lovingly bottom lines the urgency to become involved in the feminist agenda. All the while being a deliciously romantic and hopazeful story. Sweta proves, yet again, her ability to illustrate all the nuanced layers of a women’s experience and honor her power to create change in the world.” – Pallavi Sastry, Actress (CBS, Blue Bloods)
“All the characters in Louisiana Catch seem so fleshed out and genuine and relatable—human, in other words. Everything they do or say is something you’d imagine yourself doing or saying if you were in their position or situation or culture. I think that’s very important when a protagonist you’re reading about isn’t otherworldly or perfect but relatable to you.” – Nadia Gerassimenko, Luna Luna Magazine
“This is on several levels a remarkable novel, a book for our #MeToo age. It addresses the recurrent major themes of women’s fiction – events centered around marriage and friends, the search for happiness, showcasing a strong woman who overcomes multiple obstacles – but it goes beyond them, adding a new twist that makes this book a not-to-be-missed read, including for those who do not normally read in the genre. You are in the hands of a professional writer and a remarkably talented storyteller. This is definitely a page-turner.” – Claude Forthomme, Bestselling author of Gateway to Forever and United Nations Expert
“After reading Louisiana Catch, I felt elated for Ahana’s happiness and her ability to seek courage during her times of adversity. To me, Ahana represents the bravery of women coming forward about their experiences, especially in the wake of the #MeToo movement. I encourage everyone to purchase Sweta’s book. You will not be disappointed.” – Diana R. Chin, Bruja Writer & Plus-Size Lifestyle Blogger
“Sweta Vikram is and will continue to be a voice for women. An absolutely emotional and enticing novel. I love this novel. High recommendations.” – Kate Rock Lit Chic
“Louisiana Catch is one of those books which has the potential to change our society for the better and that is its prime victory. If you are a feminist, then this book is for you. If you are not one, then this book is definitely for you.” – Anupama Dalmia, Women’s Web
“There are so many different emotions that you go through as you turn the pages of the book, that you can’t help but feel for Ahana and her struggles and her determination to find the truth and eventually even love.
Definitely a good read, one for the modern woman of today.” – @justagirlfrommumbai
“This book is a thoughtful contribution to the examination of a couple of societal issues, one as old as time, domestic violence, and one quite recent, online deception.” – Lelia Taylor, Buried Under Books
“Sweta Srivastava Vikram did a great job at fully fleshing out a story from beginning to end, and made her characters feel totally real to me. I felt as though I were reading a memoir at many different points during the book, which is a true testament to how great her storytelling really is.” – Drunk on Pop
“Beyond the quality of writing, the main reason I love this story is the strong character serving as a woman’s rights advocate on which the story is centered. Vikram doesn’t shy away from including the abusive or emotionally wasteful experiences of her past, but rather than exploiting them shows the day in, day out mental work that goes into rising above and learning from those experiences from her perspective.” – Reviews by Marie, Incidental Reviews
“I loved the mix of traditional and modern themes in the story. There are so many issues that are touched on, all in various degrees but all very relevant and believable for the main character. I really rooted for Ahana loved the ending. Super story” – Books From Dusk Till Dawn
“It is said by many writers that if one knows what makes a person tick you must be a writer, a very successful writer. And, Sweta Vikram has certainly achieved this to be said about her writing of Louisiana Catch.” – Cornelia MacErlean, Moonchild Mag
“If there is one thing I cannot talk enough about in this book, then it has to be the language. I would recommend this book to each and every woman out there; for this is the inspiration we all need to fight the ghosts in our lives, both inside our home and outside.” – The Brown Orient Literary Journal
“Louisiana Catch is a novel to put on your pre-order list at Amazon and Sweta Vikram is an author to follow. Begun years before the emergence of the #MeToo movement, it brings readers into the life of an intensely conflicted young woman who is recovering from years of abuse, marital rape and shame. Like the #MeToo movement, this novel also asks serious though silent questions of readers. As women claim their power and independence in western culture, how do they assess and transcend their previous complicity in the abuse they endured without themselves becoming aggressors?” – Richard A. “Red” Lawhern, Ph.D., Co-Founder and Corresponding Secretary, Alliance for the Treatment of Intractable Pain
“Louisiana Catch is a book with a purpose and a thoroughly enjoyable read. This is a book that makes long bus rides to and from work unnoticeable…I really, really enjoyed this book. Will I be reading more of Sweta Vikram’s work? Of course!” – Alice Teh
“Sweta Srivastava Vikram couldn’t have written Louisiana Catch at a better time. The ultimate victory of Louisiana Catch is in Ahana’s maturing so she can love herself through all her faltering and mistrust.” – Bhaswati Ghosh, Kitaab
“The book has a lot to offer with the cultural, social media, modern living, family life, global, and new relationship aspects. It does have “all the things.” I am happily surprised with how much I enjoyed the book. The narrative voice was just right as I enjoy Ahana as a character. I believe in her journey and I believe with the trauma in the book being so heavy, it was the exact balancing way to tell the story.” – Soapy Violinist
“Louisiana Catch is an extraordinary story clearly defining the line between love and lust, adherence and violation and reciprocity and rape in a relationship. She has used very expressive language in building up the characters in the story and has succeeded in sending her message to all who care about women’s struggle.” – Anil Shrivastava, The Think Club Quarterly
“Louisiana Catch is a compelling read! I was swept into Ahana’s world as she struggles to find a path forward after a turbulent and violent marriage. Sweta raises an interesting question – are we destined to be defined by our choices? Read and find out for yourselves!” –Vandana Kumar, Publisher, India Currents Magazine
“A moving, modern story about letting go of the past in order to find true empowerment. As a longtime advocate for women in need, Sweta Vikram doesn’t shy away from difficult topics. Louisiana Catch deals with the complexities of love, loss, history, and home.” – Georgia Clark, Author, The Regulars
“Utterly unique, insightful and clever. Enthralling and confronting at the same time, Louisiana Catch draws the reader in, and ultimately provides hope.” – Barbara Bos, Managing Editor, Women Writer, Women’s Books
“In Louisiana Catch, celebrated author Sweta Vikram reminds us that violence against women should never be acceptable and it’s not the victim’s fault. The sudden loss of a dear one and a divorce from an abusive marriage force Ahana to emerge from her sheltered life and re-build her confidence to organize the largest women’s conference. While she is determined to help other women, she once again faces love and deceit along the way. Will that help her or deter her from sharing her story of abuse with other survivors?” – Dr. Shruti Kapoor, Founder and CEO, Sayfty
“A very compelling read! I am in awe of Sweta’s ability to intelligently capture, blend, and integrate pertinent psychological issues that face society today.” – Sunita Pattani, Psychotherapist, Author, and Trauma specialist
“Louisiana Catch is the story of a woman finding her voice and learning to listen to it. Sweta’s descriptions paint a rich picture, capturing the complexities of relationships, culture, and abuse, drawing you in and painting a vivid picture in your mind. A thoroughly enjoyable read that draws you in.” – Kimberly Campbell, Executive Director, Exhale to Inhale
“This is a powerful story, using the romantic formula to advocate a message the world needs to hear: that it is never all right to abuse women. If you like romances, you’ll enjoy this one. Even if you don’t, you’ll find the story worth reading, for its exciting plot twists, for a look into the culture of India, and above all, for the message it shouts.” – Bob Rich, PhD, Author, Anger and Anxiety
“Kudos to Sweta S.Vikram for penning a powerhouse of a book! This novel is a must-read for women (and for supportive men). I hope she wins an award for this incredible book!” – Susan Ortlieb, Suko’s Notebook
“In Louisiana Catch, Sweta Vikram brings life to the complex human rights issue of violence against women. Through one woman’s journey to make sense of her past and ultimately heal, Vikram shows us that yoga can reconnect us to ourselves, and that by empowering others, we transform our own lives.” – Zoë Lepage, Founder, Exhale to Inhale
“I believe that this novel shows us, in Ahana, a woman who dares to take charge of her own life. We take so many things for granted in the communities we live, we don’t think of other cultures. And we also don’t think much of abuse happening in our own homes if it’s not happening to us. I believe that the story here would make people think of who they are letting into their lives, and who they let close enough to hurt them.” – Estrella Azul, Behind Life’s a Stage
“I would recommend this book to anyone who needs a real and raw, compelling story to read. The protagonist will be one you will always remember and this book will constantly be on your mind-yes, it is THAT good. This book is great for readers who are interested in human relationships, social issues, identity, strong woman, the role of fried and healing in shaping our lives and the impact of social media networking.” To read the full review, click here. – Chelsea Lena Girard, Bibliobeautybooks
“Everyone should read this wonderful story about a sheltered, intelligent, wealthy woman’s journey. Very well written and an enjoyable read.” – Elaine Milks, Writers Inspiring Change
“I enjoyed Louisiana Catch and recommend it to those looking for a well-written book that revolves around relevant and important themes. I found that author Sweta Srivastava Vikram took the time to develop her characters. Little by little she shows us who they are.” – Bookworm_Nai
“This is a book is comforting and kind, yet tackles uncomfortable subjects head-on.” – Sravani Writes
“Louisiana Catch illuminates the double-sided sword that is technology today. The book also focuses on the crippling effects of violence against women, a reality not often spoken about, especially in South Asian circles.” – Kalyani Deshpande
“I thought this story was powerful and the author has certainly captured the resistance that many abused women find themselves entrapped by as they attempt recovery and leave the abuse situation.” – Patricia’s Wisdom
“The dark threads of the novel outline the loneliness of marital abuse and the sinkholes the Internet can disguise when catfishers seek new prey, but the light threads are the inner strength Ahana cultivates as she strives to make a safe place for women who’ve been victims of abuse. She also has solid friendships — with Rohan and others — and family relationships to lean on. As her mother’s wise words come to Ahana, she gains strength and learns to move forward, if cautiously.” – Serena Agusto-Cox, Savvy Verse & Wit
“This is an important book- not just for women, but for everyone, that is both serious and fun. If you’re looking for a quick and enjoyable read that’s more nuanced than the average chick lit book or the next deplorable Chetan Bhagat bestseller, pick this one up and you won’t regret it.” – Archita Mittra
“Vikram writes about the abuse and scorn women go through so well that it breaks my heart. But it is very eye-opening. It’s a great read and one that I recommend.” – Jessica Bronder, JBronder Book Reviews
“I found Louisiana Catch to be captivating, insightful, heartfelt, honest, relatable and fun to read.” G. Jacks Writes
“A great book to help promote NO EXCUSE for violence in all women.” – Fran Lewis, Just Reviews
“There are plenty of things I enjoyed about Louisiana Catch; one is the chemistry between the two leads and how love isn’t rushed but is slowly gained as time passes; I also felt that the characters are the strongest elements in the story and women both can understand and relate to Ahana Chopra.” – Sveta, Svetlana’s Read & Views
“Louisiana Catch is a solid read with an extra sprinkling of yoga and meditation as well. It’s a thriller in many ways, that doesn’t leave you with a nicely wrapped ending, but an important read. These are stories and conversations that are long overdue.” Peppermint PhD
“As an avid reader of self-help books, I would recommend this novel as an inspirational tale for women and for those who find themselves mired in a world of social media. It encompasses the good, the bad and the ugly aspects of a society that increasingly seems to only “talk” online – a venue that is imperfect for interpersonal communication not least because of the many opportunities for misinterpretation.” – All Things Jill-Elizabeth
“This book tackles a lot of important topics and is very timely. There are a lot of discussion points to be taken from this book.” – Laurie, Books and Chinooks
Downloads
Instructor’s Manual (pdf)
Press Kit (pdf)
Order Louisiana Catch Now!
On Amazon (US)
On Amazon (India)
On Barnes & Noble
On Audible
On iTunes