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The Feast of Roses  By  cover art

The Feast of Roses

By: Indu Sundaresan
Narrated by: Sneha Mathan
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Publisher's summary

In her critically praised debut novel, The 20th Wife, Indu Sundaresan introduced the love story of Emperor Jahangir and Mehrunnisa. The story continues in this lush sequel, when Mehrunnisa comes into Jahangir's harem as his 20th and final wife. This time, Jahangir has married for love, and members of his court are worried that Mehrunnisa could exert control over their futures. Their concerns are well founded.

Despite the rivalry of the imperial harem, which has plotted against her from the beginning, Mehrunnisa soon becomes the most powerful woman in the Mughal Empire. She rules from behind the veil, securing her status by forming a junta of sorts with her father, brother, and stepson and by risking all, even her daughter, to get what she wants. But she never loses the love of the man who has bestowed this power upon her.

©2003 Indu Sundaresan (P)2007 Blackstone Audio Inc.

Critic reviews

"Weaving another rich historical tapestry...Sundaresan colors the life of a fascinating woman whose female wiles inspired the Taj Mahal." (Booklist)
"The novel's scope and ambition are impressive, as are the numerous period details....Readers who enjoyed the first volume will find similar pleasures tracking the fate of one of history's most intriguing women." (Publishers Weekly)
"Sundaresan's love of storytelling is apparent in this well-researched historical romance. She makes sure that the reader stays enthralled from chapter to chapter and, with this sequel, will surely do the same in creating anticipation for her next book." (Library Journal)

Featured Article: The Best Indian Authors to Listen to Right Now


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What listeners say about The Feast of Roses

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A tribute to the insecurity of men

I loved the first book and was rewarded with the second. The love story was the central thread. I found the intrigue exciting and the betrayals disheartening. I found it sad, in the conclusion, that Mehurusa could find no support from those that were elevated because of her and her own brother was so viscous.

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Great story! Great Narration!

I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to these last 2 books! The narrator did a great job in bringing the book to life for me. Obviously I don't really like the treatment of women of these times but it is HISTORY, mostly. Thank you for sharing this book with us.

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  • Overall
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Fascinating story of history

inspiring story of a courageous woman who was a leader ahead of her time.

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excelente historia

No estaba muy familiarizada con la India mongola. me pareció fascinante las descripciones.
si te gusta la novela basada en historia es una opción imperdible

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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Completing the Story of Nur Jahan

I suggest listening to "The Twentieth Wife" first, as this picks up where the previous book ends. Nur Jahan, historically, has been overshadowed by her niece, Mumtaz Mahal, but was actually much more interesting as a person. Snetha Mathan is a very good reader, but the production needs considerable improvement, as the editing is very sloppy, with many repeated sentences. Nevertheless, I recommend this for anyone who enjoys a good historical novel.

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Rich language and descriptions

Great book; even better than the first book in the series. The language and descriptions are so rich, I felt like I was right there seeing, smelling, tasting and experiencing everything. Great story, too (both books); one I did not previously know.

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    3 out of 5 stars

Great reader. Many skips and repeats in recording

Where does The Feast of Roses rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

An okay story made listenable by wonderful reading and by enjoyment of the detail of court life.

Any additional comments?

There are many places where the recording repeats and skips. It's really a problem.

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  • Overall
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Interesting and informative

My only issue was the production as there are parts where it is repeated but the writing and construction of the characters is good.

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India’s History

I did not really know what I was getting into when I started listening to “The Twentieth Wife” & at the end of that book was when I found out it was a trilogy. I enjoyed the narrator so much as well as the story and really appreciated the explanation at the end of the book how this aligned with India’s true history. I can’t wait to download the next book. I have learned so many fascinating facts I would have never known otherwise.

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Marvelous historical fiction!

Loved these books. Looking forward to reading Shadow Princess. Teach high school world history, and these novels bring Mughal Golden Age to life!

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