Book Review # 42: The Burning Queen Rani Padmavati :Anuja Chandramouli

Synopsis:

Padmavati is the most beautiful queen Chittor has ever had. Everyone who sees her is enthralled by her grace and goodness. When the greedy gaze of the Sultan ofDelhi, Alauddin Khalji, falls upon Chittor and its queen, Padmavati’s flawless beauty turns against her, because it inspires both love and hate in equal measure.Beset by the threat of an invasion and scheming political rivals who are envious of her immense popularity, Rani Padmavati must rise to the demands of war and fight for everything she believes in. This is the story of a remarkable woman who lived gently, loved passionately and embraced her destiny with unmatched courage.

My Thoughts:

A very intense story written by Anuja. The story not only puts the history in perspective but also talks about the characters and explains why they are the way they are. I am bowled away with the narration and the research put in by the author. I have almost reached the reading challenge I had set myself this year but this one has to be one of the few bests I have read.

Writing an historical fiction is never easy. This book makes you emotional as well as drains you . Hats off to the author for being able to share such intense thoughts. I had to take a break to assimilate what I read and felt a few times. (Believe me that such effective writing doesnt come easy) Padmavati was a strong lady and very way ahead of her time when women weren't respected much. There is a lot of take away from the life of this queen for the women of today's generation. The ability to take quick decisions, presence of mind and standing by what she feels is right are some of her best qualities.

I feel these are the few reasons other than her beauty that much have attracted Alludin Khiliji. I liked the way his character is etched and the thought process explained. Women these days have a lot to draw parallels from such a fiery queen who had the courage to make a decision and stand by it.

I haven't read many from this author but now I feel I have been missing a master story teller. Next on my list is Kartikeya. Keep up the great work Anuja, you have added a fan to your fan base.

(I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.)