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The Cloud Chariot
One hundred years after Ashoka’s brutal conquest, Kalinga stirs once more. The Mahameghavahanas, a dynasty forged in fire, have not only broken free from the chains of foreign oppression but have ignited a renaissance of culture and patriotism. The brave and wise king Mahameghavahana Kharavela is determined to restore Kalinga to its former glory and reclaim the sacred Jina idol, which was torn from his people’s grasp by Magadha’s greedy hands.
Yet, as the embers of rebirth glow bright, darkness lurks in every corner. King Kharavela finds himself trapped in a deadly game of chess. Palace intrigue shifts through the halls, while rival factions sharpen their knives in the shadows. Beyond the borders, hungry eyes watch and wait. Within, traitors weave their treacherous webs.
Into this viper’s nest steps an enigma. Rudravarman—warrior, sage and master of a thousand arts. But his antecedents are mysterious and his objectives unclear. Who is this man who appeared from nowhere to stand at the king’s right hand? What demons drive him? Is he the kingdom’s salvation . . . or the architect
of its final downfall?
Prepare to be transported to a world of epic ambition, breathtaking betrayal and long-buried truths. A meticulously researched historical thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat as it unravels a mystery set against the backdrop of India’s tumultuous first century BCE.
Yet, as the embers of rebirth glow bright, darkness lurks in every corner. King Kharavela finds himself trapped in a deadly game of chess. Palace intrigue shifts through the halls, while rival factions sharpen their knives in the shadows. Beyond the borders, hungry eyes watch and wait. Within, traitors weave their treacherous webs.
Into this viper’s nest steps an enigma. Rudravarman—warrior, sage and master of a thousand arts. But his antecedents are mysterious and his objectives unclear. Who is this man who appeared from nowhere to stand at the king’s right hand? What demons drive him? Is he the kingdom’s salvation . . . or the architect
of its final downfall?
Prepare to be transported to a world of epic ambition, breathtaking betrayal and long-buried truths. A meticulously researched historical thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat as it unravels a mystery set against the backdrop of India’s tumultuous first century BCE.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2024
25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
February 3, 2025
A mysterious person with robust phisics like high ranking soldiers, arrived Kharavela's palace looking for royal official job and slowly he became a remarkable character in this story. But, what is his real identity? What is his real motive? Mysteries are lurking behind the shadows...
It takes you to the tumultuous first century of ancient India, with author's atmospheric writing history became alive.
There are lots of historical fiction available that captures the gorgeous South India's history but this book came with a fresh perspective that talks about eastern India's history, it's a remarkable refreshing approach in historical fiction shelf.
I like the author's deep observation and extensive research that helps in world building.
Like other historical fiction this book also focused on political conspiracy and sizzling drama between royal characters but author also gives us insights on conflicts between vedic ritualistic hinduism, growing enigma of buddhism, and admiration towards Jainism, it was well described and I am glad author didn't tried to avoid this important background.
Reforming brahmanicle hinduism after ashoka, was an intriguing theme, I was expecting author would follow the theme a little more in the story but it didn't happen.
It takes you to the tumultuous first century of ancient India, with author's atmospheric writing history became alive.
There are lots of historical fiction available that captures the gorgeous South India's history but this book came with a fresh perspective that talks about eastern India's history, it's a remarkable refreshing approach in historical fiction shelf.
I like the author's deep observation and extensive research that helps in world building.
Like other historical fiction this book also focused on political conspiracy and sizzling drama between royal characters but author also gives us insights on conflicts between vedic ritualistic hinduism, growing enigma of buddhism, and admiration towards Jainism, it was well described and I am glad author didn't tried to avoid this important background.
Reforming brahmanicle hinduism after ashoka, was an intriguing theme, I was expecting author would follow the theme a little more in the story but it didn't happen.
June 29, 2025
An excellent narrative novel with the plot of 100 years after the Ashoka 's Brutal conquest in the Kalinga War.
Here we see MAHAMEGHAVAHANAS which is a dynasty forged in the FIRE OF THE war of KALINGA .
After this they have broken free the chains of oppression and suppression and started with the Renaissance of patriotism and extreme culture.
What follows is that the brave King MAHAMEGHAVAHANAS KHARVELA is determined to restore Kalinga to its former glory and their reclaimed the sacred Jina Jol.
This book has everything the thrill the story the strong plot war and so much more
What attracts the most is the descriptive style of writing.. extremely clear and full of organic descriptions which will help you to imagine the scenes from the book very easily.
December 18, 2024
In the kingdom of Kalinga, a mysterious figure emerges, Rudra. He was shrouded in secrecy and driven by hidden motives.
As he rises through the ranks, he becomes a pivotal figure in the royal court, and a complex web of intrigue begins to unfold, drawing in a cast of characters with their secrets and agendas.
Through Rudra's eyes and those of a diverse cast, the story unfolds with precision, each character bringing their unique perspective.
The author's storytelling transports readers to a bygone era, immersing them in its sights, sounds, and struggles.
He weaves together the intricate threads of politics, power struggles, and ancient traditions, bringing the past to vivid life.
As he rises through the ranks, he becomes a pivotal figure in the royal court, and a complex web of intrigue begins to unfold, drawing in a cast of characters with their secrets and agendas.
Through Rudra's eyes and those of a diverse cast, the story unfolds with precision, each character bringing their unique perspective.
The author's storytelling transports readers to a bygone era, immersing them in its sights, sounds, and struggles.
He weaves together the intricate threads of politics, power struggles, and ancient traditions, bringing the past to vivid life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2024
Full of political intrigue and conspiracy, this story takes you on a journey through the medieval times.
Rudra , the protagonist, arrives in the kingdom of Kalinga as a mysterious stranger. Full of an enigmatic aura , he has hidden motives. Slowly , he moves through the ranks and becomes an important part of the royal entourage. But there is a lot more in store for him as well as the kingdom.
The story is crafted skillfully with impressive world building accurate for the medieval era of Indian history . The small kingdoms , tribes and the constant state of conflict has been narrated well. The religious situation of the era has been woven along with the royal struggles. The world building is researched and impressive. From royal rivalry to battles and wars , all aspects of the time have knitted seamlessly. The author has been successful in capturing the essence of the past.
Along with Rudra , several other important characters have been created in the story. These established characters have significant traits as well as space in the story. The elements of history and mystery have been used effectively to create a thrilling ride full of action and revelations.
The language of the story is simple and full of references to the historical times which add to the vibes of the tale. With references to Kharvela king and other dynasties as well as kingdoms the story satiates the need for a believable historical fiction .
This is an enthralling read with a suspenseful historical tale bound to keep the reader hooked till the end.
Rudra , the protagonist, arrives in the kingdom of Kalinga as a mysterious stranger. Full of an enigmatic aura , he has hidden motives. Slowly , he moves through the ranks and becomes an important part of the royal entourage. But there is a lot more in store for him as well as the kingdom.
The story is crafted skillfully with impressive world building accurate for the medieval era of Indian history . The small kingdoms , tribes and the constant state of conflict has been narrated well. The religious situation of the era has been woven along with the royal struggles. The world building is researched and impressive. From royal rivalry to battles and wars , all aspects of the time have knitted seamlessly. The author has been successful in capturing the essence of the past.
Along with Rudra , several other important characters have been created in the story. These established characters have significant traits as well as space in the story. The elements of history and mystery have been used effectively to create a thrilling ride full of action and revelations.
The language of the story is simple and full of references to the historical times which add to the vibes of the tale. With references to Kharvela king and other dynasties as well as kingdoms the story satiates the need for a believable historical fiction .
This is an enthralling read with a suspenseful historical tale bound to keep the reader hooked till the end.
January 26, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyable & unputdownable.
This is what I call responsible fiction. It has a lot more to offer the reader apart from the thrill of the plot. It was a virtual tour of the age & I could actually experience its ethos.
Highly recommended
This is what I call responsible fiction. It has a lot more to offer the reader apart from the thrill of the plot. It was a virtual tour of the age & I could actually experience its ethos.
Highly recommended
September 7, 2025
A very well written & well researched book written with such attention to details.
And a plot that keeps you turning the pages.
And a plot that keeps you turning the pages.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews