The Feast of Roses

By: Indu Sundaresan

Narrated by: Sneha Mathan

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)

One of my favorite series so far!

I love when someone makes history come to life! This was a beautiful account of the Mughal empire, the characters and the culture played vividly as the narrator narrated. I definitely recommend both the author and narrator.
Now I'm obsessed with Indian Royalty..thanks alot lol

Superbly written and recounted!

Well worth the time you will put in listening…nonstop action, very thrilling listen, exceptional details, feels like you’re right there. Highly recommend! I

Wonderfully Written. A Journey through India’s historical Royal Court.

This sequel to The Twentieth Wife is full of factual content in the life and abiding love of an Emperor and his Twentieth Empress.
Full of heartbreak, betrayals, greed and the machinations among his harem, heirs, family, friends and the Nobility in is his court.
I had to concentrate to follow but well worth it.
The narrator’s performance was Great!

ENJOYABLE

I read book number one and really liked it.
I had high expectations of this book, and in my opinion it started slow. Glad I stuck with it. Overall it is an interesting book about an important part of India’s history, which I am interested in.
The author and the narrator are both excellent.
I do recommend listening.
My thanks to all involved, JK.

Good book, issue with recording

I enjoyed this, not as much as the Twentieth Wife, but it was well written and interesting. The recording has several spots where it repeats a line or two.

The Feast Of Roses

Beautiful sequel to The Twentieth Wife gives us a closer look into the life of Noor Jahan and mid 17th century Mogul rule
The story is written and narrated beautifully, Sneha is an excellent narrator she brings book to life

Good Content

Strong and clear story line. Narration was engaging but too many Arabic words were mispronounced.

JUST WOW

I was born and raised in Iran .The fact that TAJ MAHAL was built in honor of a Persian princess was something to discuss and it was interesting to know the story.
I read both books “THE TWENTIETH WIFE “ and of course this book and enjoyed both very much .
I made a very strong connection with the characters and admired MEHR OL NESA . Such a strong woman such an amazing willpower. Couldn’t help the tears at the ending. Enjoyed every bit of narration, amazing talent awesome consistent tone . Learned a lot and looking forward to other amazing reads from the author.

Love

This is so interesting. It is a series. The first book was really good too.

WONDERFUL!

I absolutely loved this story (as well as the previous one). The narrator was outstanding and made listening a delight. Highly recommend.