The Crossover Girl & Other Stories

Beginning with the story of young Army Brats accidentally crossing the LOC to the intrigues during the training in NDA, bada khanas, military dogs, officers’ dinners, and the infamous canteen, The Crossover Girl & Other Stories delves deep into the psyche, life, and incidents of military life. From tales of bravery in the face of adverse circumstances to an innocent Pakistani girl’s quest across the border to watch Shah Rukh Khan films, the stories embrace raw human emotions—portraying military personnel not just as warriors but as individuals with their own fears, challenges, and memories. Balancing pithy observation with a characteristic dash of humour and sarcasm, Ahlawat presents the brushed-under-the-carpet emotions of seemingly tough military men—vulnerable beneath their armour. A celebration of life and the resilience of the human spirit, this collection of 29 stories is an authentic and humanising portrayal of military life, capturing the essence of the military community—the bravery, the sacrifices, and the shared humanity that unites us all. Armed with powerful storytelling, this gripping collection will resonate with readers long after the last page is turned.