An engaging narrative about a the Rani of Jhansi and of her brave fight against British colonial power.
A fictional account of the life of Lakshmibai, the heroic warrior-queen, The Rani of Jhansi vibrantly portrays one of the bravest women in Indian history. Along with the throne, Lakshmibai inherits steep challenges-she becomes a widow to a deceased king and mother to an adopted heir. Her brother-in-law aggressively contends her right to the throne, and the ominous presence of the British spells uncertainty for Jhansi’s future. Meanwhile, war clouds gather as several states prepare to fight against foreign domination. A rebellion seems inevitable.
Using a number of characters, some known, others invented, Prince Michael paints a compelling portrait of Maratha aristocracy and their courts in the nineteenth century, of the first nationwide struggle against the British and of Lakshmi - woman, ruler and a symbol of steely courage against all odds.
Prince Michael of Greece and Denmark, Michel de Grèce (modern Greek spelling: Μιχαήλ της Ελλάδας) is a member of the Greek royal family and descendant of the Romanovs. He is the author of several historical novels and biographies, as well as a contributing writer to Architectural Digest.
Did not keep me intrigued through the story. Felt the build to the known value of Jhansi ki Rani was not achieved and her fights were poorly described.
Un roman très instructif sur une période de l'histoire indienne pas très connue en France: the Great Revolt ou la Révolte des Cipayes. A travers l'évocation de la vie de la Rani de Jansi - de sa prise de pouvoir à son combat face aux Anglais - , on découvre l'histoire de la fin de l'Empire moghol et de la dernière tentative de ses souverains pour contrer l'emprise croissante des Britanniques. A lire.
Wonderful retelling of an engaging character in a tumultuous time and brings out the dangers of a fight in both sides demonize each other and descend into a frezy
Excellent ouvrage sur un personnage historique peu connu : une maharani dont la principauté fut malmenée par l'administration coloniale.
Elle finit par se retrouver du côté de la rébellion, suite au soulèvement des supplétifs indiens, les fameux Cipayes, contre l'occupation britannique. Devenue chef de guerre, elle mourut en héros.
The description and narration are charming, however it is disappointing to see certain elements of the novel to contradict Indian faith towards the great woman and slightly demoralise Indian culture.