Indu Sundaresan has done it again. Marvelous read.The daughters of Emperor Jahangir, Jahanara and Roshanara, plot and scheme against one another in an attempt to gain power over their father’s harem. As royal princesses they are confined in the imperial harem and not allowed to marry. However, this does not stop them from having illicit affairs or plotting the next heir to the throne. These royal sisters are in competition for everything: power over the harem, their father’s affection (still focused on his dead wife), and the future of their country. Unfortunately, only one of them can succeed. And, despite their best efforts to affect the future, their schemes are eclipsed, both during their lives and in posterity, as they live in the shadow of the greatest monument in Indian history, the Taj Mahal.With a flair and enthusiasm for history and culture, Sundaresan creates a story full of rich details that brings the reader deep into the world of the lives of Indian women and their struggles for power and consequence. I liked this book the least of the Taj trilogy. Somehow, I felt that the focus of this book remained Nur Jahan, the main character of the previous novels. There was far too much description of places and structures she designed, and not enough character development of the other princesses. Additionally, the love between Jahanara Begum and Aurengzeb was not mentioned in this book. This, I feel, did a great injustice to the story.
What do You think about La Principessa Indiana (2010)?
Loved this book. So descriptive and somewhat of alearning experience about Indian history.
—ash
Very well done. Ms. Sundaresan is an excellent writer. Now, on to the story of Noor Jahan!
—Yup
Great historical fiction, draws you in and you become a part of it! Excellent!
—big_sis_
