The Last Queen

Author: Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Genre: Fiction, Historical Fiction

Rating: 3 out of 5

Pages: 384

Date Started: 9 March 2023

Date Finished: 13 March 2023

"The Last Queen" was an unexpected addition to my reading list, and it certainly took me out of my comfort zone. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's novel weaves a captivating tale based on true-life events, offering readers a glimpse into the remarkable life of Jindan, who rose from humble beginnings to become the last reigning queen of India's Sikh Empire.

The narrative is undeniably engaging, and I found myself engrossed in the story throughout. Divakaruni's depiction of Jindan's transformation from the daughter of a royal kennel keeper to a powerful monarch is both inspiring and thought-provoking. Jindan's character is sharp-eyed, stubborn, and passionate, and her journey from obscurity to royalty is a testament to her inner strength. One of the book's strengths lies in its exploration of the powerful bond between Jindan and Maharaja Ranjit Singh, which evolves into an exquisite love story. This emotional connection adds depth to the narrative and draws readers into the heart of their relationship. The narrative, however, is not without its quirks. At times, I felt that the story meandered, circling around the same incidents before suddenly taking unexpected twists and turns. This unpredictability can be likened to driving on a straight road and suddenly swerving to avoid a collision with a wrong-way driver. While it kept me on my toes, it occasionally left me craving a more balanced pacing. Despite this, "The Last Queen" remains a good read. It offers a unique glimpse into a lesser-known historical figure and a time of significant upheaval in India's history. Jindan's transition from a pampered wife to a warrior ruler, and her determination to protect her people and her son's birthright from the encroaching British Empire, is both inspiring and cautionary. In conclusion, Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's novel is a valuable addition to historical fiction, shedding light on the life of a fearless woman from the nineteenth century whose story cries out to be told. It serves as a reminder of the indestructible bond between mother and child and offers a cautionary tale about loyalty and betrayal. "The Last Queen" may have its moments of circling, but it ultimately stands as a tale worth exploring, even for readers like me, who are not typically drawn to this genre.

Favorite lines from the book:

• But I can't stop thinking of all the Sikhs who died on that distant battlefield to satisfy a royal whim, their faces turned homeward as their eyes darkened.

• How quickly we learn habits of luxury.

• Adoration is a powerful intoxicant.

• When one has to leave behind almost everything, it hardly matters what one takes.

• Fame: it’s a drug more potent than opium.