The Twentieth Wife by Indu Sundaressan
Review by Sofie
Who would like this book? People who are interested in the Mughal Empire.
Why? Mehrunissa and her family run away from Persia after her father is deeply disgraced after the new Emperor of Persia decides to tax them and send them to jail. The family joins a caravan and makes their way to India.
The Emperor of India, Akbar, likes Mehrunissa’s father’s spirit and wit and gives him a home and a purse of money and a position in court. Life is looking pretty good for everyone. The Empress, takes notice of Mehrunissa, who is only nine at the time and lets her come and visit the palace everyday.
Soon Mehrunissa grows up and becomes a teenager. She doesn’t care about simple things anymore. She cares about guys. In fact, one guy. The Prince.
The two love each other, but it’s impossible for them to be together. She tries to forget about him, but fails. Will they ever be together? Will the Prince forget about her? Will she be his Twentieth Wife, or just another face in the crowd?
The details: 397 p. 2002 Submitted by Sofie