⁸This is the second book in the Jaipur trilogy. Though the first book was mostly about Lakshmi and her sister Radha, this book is mostly about Lakshmi’s protégé Malik. Having studied in Shimla, he returns to Jaipur as an apprentice. Here is where there is an unexpected turn of events. A few new characters pop in but the storyline is again very interesting.
The book portrays the author's love for jewellery and Indian cuisine.
I loved the character Lakshmi in ‘The henna artist’ and in ‘The secret keeper of Jaipur.’ She is a strong and an empathetic person with foresight and always knows what the other person wants.
I am impressed by the herbs listed in the book. Ayurveda is very interesting and most households in India have home remedies for small ailments like cold, cough, stomach aches, etc.
It’s interesting to read about tribals and their lives. A character who is new and from the tribe is Nimmi and she knows about the herbs available in the hilly areas of Shimla and their usage. Nimmi and Lakshmi put together their knowledge and they develop a healing garden.
Gold smuggling is woven into the story and the way it is carried out is very upsetting. The author has written at the end of the book, about her research on this topic.
The effervescent nature of the book makes it a wonderful read, highlighting Shimla’s greenery, the hills as well as Jaipur’s royalty, and grandeur.
Again, at the end of the book, there are some delicious recipes, an essay on gold and Indian food.
This book can be read as a standalone, as the author gives a brief outline of the henna artist here and there.
The prose is fabulous, the writing eloquent, and has multiple narratives. It’s an easy read and I recommend it to everyone.
Eagerly looking forward to the third part of the trilogy.