Do Not Follow is a heartfelt and introspective novel about Seema, a middle-aged immigrant woman, who returns to her hometown after 17 years to confront her past, her family, and herself. Navigating grief, clutter, and unexpected revelations, she explores life, love, and loss in search of self-discovery and closure.
This story will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to reconcile their past with their present. Deeply personal and universally human, filled with moments of nostalgia, humor, and heartache, it’s a must-read for someone who has ever felt the pull of home, even when it’s the last place they want to go.
Preorder available now!
Advance Praise for Do Not Follow
“a book not to miss”
“deeply relatable, emotional, and thought provoking”
“Surbhi Bansal captures the push and pull of love and obligation with honesty and grace. Readers will find themselves rooting for Seema and reflecting on their own journeys home”
““tender, quietly powerful story about grief, belonging, and the complicated bonds of family””
“hopeful, thoughtful, and deeply human”
Press and Events
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UB DoctHERS
Sept 27, 2025, 9 am - noon
Leadership Prescription: Vision, Voice, and Vitality for Women in Healthcare
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Neighbors: Wyndham & Twin Hickory
Strength in Structure, Warmth in Spirit: Surbhi Bansal and her family
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Henrico Community Authors Showcase
Nov 10, 2025, 7-8 pm
Read, discuss, and connect with other writers and readers in our community.
Surbhi Bansal is an award-winning physician and Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Virginia Commonwealth University. She has published extensively in medical journals such as Clinical Ophthalmology and American Journal of Ophthalmology, and contributed chapters to The History of Glaucoma and A New History of Cataract Surgery. Born and raised in India, Surbhi moved to the United States at age thirteen. She completed her medical studies at University at Buffalo in New York and University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. Surbhi lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband and two children.
