The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi.
Synopsis
Vivid and compelling in its portrait of one woman’s struggle for fulfillment in a society pivoting between the traditional and the modern, The Henna Artist opens a door into a world that is at once lush and fascinating, stark and cruel.
Escaping from an abusive marriage, seventeen-year-old Lakshmi makes her way alone to the vibrant 1950s pink city of Jaipur. There she becomes the most highly requested henna artist—and confidante—to the wealthy women of the upper class. But trusted with the secrets of the wealthy, she can never reveal her own…
Known for her original designs and sage advice, Lakshmi must tread carefully to avoid the jealous gossips who could ruin her reputation and her livelihood. As she pursues her dream of an independent life, she is startled one day when she is confronted by her husband, who has tracked her down these many years later with a high-spirited young girl in tow—a sister Lakshmi never knew she had. Suddenly the caution that she has carefully cultivated as protection is threatened. Still she perseveres, applying her talents and lifting up those that surround her as she does.
My Review
The Henna Artist is a wonderfully written novel about a strong Indian women who works as a henna artist in Jaipur. I very much enjoyed the characters in this novel, particularly Lakshmi and her sister, Radha. This book features elements of class difference and arranged marriages and alliances between families.
This is a book that will definitely have you travelling through the pages from the comforts of home. This is the first book by Alka Joshi and I am pleased that it was recommended to me.
I look forward to reading the next book, The Secret Keeper of Jaipur, and to reading more of the culture and these characters.
A read for the senses.
My Rating: 5/5
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book Details
Author: Alka Joshi.
Publisher: Mira Books.
Publication Date: March 3, 2020.
Genre: Historical fiction. Fiction. Cultural, India. Cultural. Adult Fiction. Historical.
Edition: Paperback.
Pages: 384.