Discover books similar to "The Twentieth Wife"

Indu Sundaresan

The Twentieth Wife

4.04

"The Twentieth Wife" by Indu Sundaresan is a rich and captivating historical novel that brings to life the story of Mehrunnisa, who would become Empress Nur Jahan, the twentieth wife of Mughal emperor Jahangir. The novel begins in Agra, India, in 1564, where we meet Mehrunnisa, a young girl with a keen intellect and a headstrong personality. As she grows up, Mehrunnisa's beauty and intelligence attract the attention of many powerful men, including Jahangir, who becomes infatuated with her and eventually makes her his wife. Sundaresan skillfully weaves together historical fact and fiction to create a vivid and engaging narrative that explores the complexities of life in the Mughal court. The novel delves into the power dynamics between men and women, the politics of the royal court, and the challenges of maintaining one's identity and independence in a world dominated by men. Mehrunnisa is a compelling and relatable protagonist, and Sundaresan does an excellent job of portraying her as a strong and intelligent woman who is unafraid to assert herself in a world dominated by men. The novel also features a rich and diverse cast of characters, including Jahangir, his father Akbar, and his estranged brother Khusrau, all of whom are depicted with depth and nuance. One of the strengths of "The Twentieth Wife" is Sundaresan's ability to bring the world of the Mughal court to life. The novel is filled with vivid descriptions of the opulent palaces, elaborate feasts, and sumptuous clothing that characterized life in the Mughal empire. Sundaresan's attention to detail is impressive, and she skillfully evokes the sights, sounds, and smells of sixteenth-century India. Overall, "The Twentieth Wife" is a beautifully written and engaging historical novel that will appeal to fans of authors like Philippa Gregory and Elizabeth Chadwick. Sundaresan's vivid storytelling and richly drawn characters make for a compelling and immersive reading experience that will transport readers to a different time and place...

List of books similar to "The Twentieth Wife":

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