I believe it is one of the author’s strengths to mix myth and imagination to such an extent that the reader half-believes she was right there centuries ago or has written down words whispered into her ears by the gods themselves. While I am not familiar with most of the “puranas” that serve as the base, I easily got the feeling that a lot of facts or historical tales have been incorporated cleverly with the details filled in by the author.

Over all, this book is a tale of love in its many forms, adoring or obsessive, doubtful or pre-ordained, gentle or fiercely passionate. Mixed in are thought-provoking lines as well as breathtaking action sequences. Love is portrayed through the eyes of onlookers as much as through the emotions and behavior of the protagonists. Take this quote, for example, which gives a lot of ‘in a nutshell’ insight on how love may be perceived and may transform a person: >>‘We have never seen him so content,’ said the courtiers who had often faced his blistering rage. ‘His ambition seems to have been curbed by his passion for his queen.’<< If you’re a fan of (Indian) mythology or simply someone who enjoys fast-paced, colorful, dramatic, historical love stories, you shouldn’t miss this treat. 5 stars