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The Passionate Princess: A Historical Romance

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All it took was one look. And they were in love...

Princess Hemangini is mesmerised by Prince Devendra when she falls into his arms while rushing across the royal gardens.

The Prince of Indrapuri is amazed that the Princess of Mahendrapuri is even more beautiful and graceful than what the visiting bards sang in praise of her.

Their mutual attraction blooms into love and they decide to get married. Tying the knot is easy, but consummating the marriage is another matter altogether.

As their love and passion draw them towards each other, Devendra’s mother, Queen Kanchana Devi, keeps throwing obstacles in the path of the lovers; sometimes in the name of rituals and sometimes inflicting doubts in their minds; doing her best to keep them apart.

As the frustrated bride and groom tolerate the intervening time with impatience, something happens to shake up Hemangini; something that makes her refuse to let her husband touch her.

What will the proud prince have to do to make his princess fall into his arms once again?

Read this historical romance from India to find out if the passionate princess finds happiness with her prince or not.

238 pages, Paperback

Published May 14, 2022

33 people are currently reading
43 people want to read

About the author

Sundari Venkatraman

99 books230 followers
Sundari Venkatraman is an Indie Author who has 76 self-published books to her credit. These books have consistently featured in the Top 100 Bestseller Lists on Amazon India, Amazon USA, Amazon UK, Amazon Canada and Amazon Australia in both romance as well as Asian Drama categories. Her latest hot romances have all been on #1 Bestseller slot in Amazon India for over a month.
These days, the author is independently publishing her novels in paperback format under her banner Flaming Sun, printed and distributed by Notion Press.
Even as a child, Sundari absolutely loved the ‘lived happily ever after’ syndrome and she grew up on a steady diet of fairy tales, Phantom comics and Mandrake comics. It was always about good triumphing over evil and a happy ending after the protagonists surmounted all unexpected obstacles.
Once she entered her teens, Sundari switched her loyalties from fairy tales to Mills & Boon. While she loved reading both of these, she kept visualising what would have happened if there were similar situations happening in India; to local heroes and heroines. And of course, the joy of vanquishing the ubiquitous evil villains! Her imagination soared and she happily ensconced herself in a rosy romantic cocoon for many years.
Then came the writing—a true bolt from the blue! And Sundari Venkatraman has never looked back.
Use hashtag #60at60
You can connect with the author here: https://linktr.ee/sundarivenkatraman

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5 stars
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48 (32%)
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26 (17%)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Rainz ❤️rainnbooks❤️(on a break).
1,368 reviews88 followers
August 10, 2021
OK, confession time. I have read countless historical romances, Regency, Victorian, Highland Lairds, all those dukes, earls, viscounts, etc with their heart-warming romances but I have so far not read one single book with an Indian Rajah and Rani. Don’t ask me why, I have no idea!

The Passionate Princess by Sundari Venkatraman is my attempt to change that curve and what a delicious treat by the author. The historical details captured by the author are breathtakingly vivid. The jewelry, the clothes, the era of the palatial palaces, and being rewarded by the king or the queen with gold or diamonds, I was just left starry-eyed with my imagination running wild. Well, honestly, Sundari Venkatraman also made me wonder how in the world did any of these Raja’s and Rani’s indulge in any kind of clandestine affairs with the kind of dresses they used to wear and the overwhelming number of jewelry they had on their person.

The story about Princess Hema and Prince Deva falling in love at first sight and deciding on marriage is easy but what I absolutely loved is what follows that wedding. As Princess Hema grapples with a discovery after reaching her husband’s palace, trust has to be relearned between the newly married couple. With a Queen who is not too happy about her daughter-in-law and her non-stop efforts to create differences between them, the love story is not without its own thorns.

A highly entertaining and enjoyable read The Passionate Princess transports the reader to the glamorous and wealthy lives of the royalty and the era of not just strong men but also equally strong women. Princess Hema as a character was so skilfully drawn, with her intelligence and her cunning and mischievous ways to heed but also thwart her mother-in-law’s plans. She is efficient and commands respect from her husband and I was positively overjoyed with her soft but strong approach to be sure of her own love.

Go for it, you won’t be disappointed ☂️ ☂️ ☂️ ☂️ ☂️

This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Facebook, and Twitter.
Profile Image for Keerti Sandeep.
Author 3 books9 followers
December 26, 2020
A beautiful historical Romance.

It's my the first historical romance I have read and it was amazing.

Set in the 1840's the story of Prince Devendra and Princess Hemangini is a beautiful love story. The character of princess Hemangini is described well. The story flows well to keep you hooked till the end. A completely enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Kavita.
268 reviews12 followers
October 31, 2020
My Take:

Princess Hemangini is a feisty princess who knows her mind and has her heart at the right place. She commands respect, is intelligent and brave. She has her set of values, expectations and believes in love and companionship, marriage and happily ever after. She comes face to face with Devendra who she falls for and dreams of her happily ever after. The feelings and the chemistry between them is mutual and moves ahead that she tumbles on something about his family. Vary of the situation she closes herself and suddenly starts doubting her relationship with the prince.

The process of falling in love and their marriage is handled well by the author. The historical era is created beautifully. Crackling chemistry and love for each other, the marriage should have been happily ever after right? Nope, an interesting twist and a simple misunderstanding create a barrier between the love birds? Will they overcome this? Read the book to find out.

The characters are well etched. The females as usual command respect and are portrayed strong. A book transports back to the kings era with the palace and the grandeur.

Some love stories keep you hooked till the end. Some authors weave magic with their narration and story. Sundari is one of them. I have always been a fan of her writings and work. Very few authors can write romance. Sex and passion in romantic stories requires craft and the author manages beautifully without making the love making scenes vulgar. The finesse and the authors total command over the story is praiseworthy.


5/5 for this subtle yet feisty story.
217 reviews1 follower
November 22, 2021
This historical romance is set up in the mid-fifteenth century, from 1481-1485 AD. The book starts with a conversation between Kanchana Devi, the Queen of Indrapuri, and the royal astrologer, Agnimitra regarding the horoscope of the Queen's daughter-in-law, Princess Hemangini.
Fourteen months had passed after the wedding and there is no sign of a child. The astrologer has predicted that there is nothing so far visible but they can expect it after a time span. After hearing this prediction, she got annoyed.

The cunning queen Kanchana dislike her daughter-in-law and was often very jealous of Hemangini not because Devendra showered attention on his wife and not his mother but because the queen's husband had never shown her the same kind of love that her son had for his wife. There are many incidences mentioned in the book which show her hatred towards Hemangini. But there was not even a single incident when Devendra wasn't there by her side.

Now, the story goes back to the time when Devendra fall for Hemangini, the Princess of Mahendrapuri. She was not just a beautiful face, but an intelligent conversationalist as well. She was educated and was also trained in sword fighting and archery while Devendra was a handsome skilled person and a brave warrior. He fall in love with the princess and they decided to get married within three weeks. After their marriage ended, his mother did something which was a bit shocking.

What would it be?
What would have been the reaction of the newlyweds?

The story is normally paced with a good amount of research work done. Moreover, I liked the words used by the author like Madira, nathni, Kamarbandh, Uttariya, etc, just to make the background more authentic. Although the entire book is filled with so many sweet moments I loved that part when Hemangini was worried about her happy married life, after knowing that her father-in-law has married four wives.

The conversation between the two at this time was extremely sweet and heart-touching.
The author has beautifully portrayed the love between the two. There were so many sweet moments and lines such as:

"Hemangini was the light of his life and he would do anything to keep her happy and even lay his life down for her sake"
577 reviews3 followers
November 23, 2021
Name of the book: The Passionate Princess
Author: Sundari Venkatraman

The Story is about Princess Hema & Prince Deva falling in love at first sight & deciding on marriage. What I absolutely love is what follows the wedding. Princess Hema deals with a discovery after reaching her husband's palace, and trust has to be relearned between the newly married couple.

But the Queen was not happy about her daughter-in- law & her every efforts. This created a difference between them because the love story is not on their proper terms.

The Passionate Princess transport the reader to the wealthy lives of the royalty & the era of not just strong men but also equally strong women.

A historical romance book is in itself a challenge for any writer and this is where Sundari Venkatraman beautifully captured the 14th century era.

A writer who surely knows how to caress her characters & effortlessly loves them in an honest & subtle manner.

The characters especially the female have a lot of depth and colour to their personalities and I loved it about that book.

I love the book and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

The steamy love story is narrated without vulgarity but carries vivid imagery. A style that made even a steamy romance seems simple & sweet. Sundari Venkatramam's stories have that power.

In this world of strong characters, I could see the palaces, the rich clothing, and the ornaments that will take you back to an era of love & valor.

"The Passionate Princess" is a success.

The characters of Princess Hema is described well. The story flows well to keep you hooked. The characters are well catched.

Plunge into this one to get soaked in that sweet feeling.

Recommended to all.
Profile Image for Amiritha S..
Author 2 books3 followers
November 28, 2021
The Passionate Princess: A Historical Romance (The Princess Series Book 1) by Sundari Venkatraman. I recently read this book and I loved it completely.

Princess Hemangini and Prince Devendra fell in love at the paradise. Kanchana Devi, mother of the Prince played wicked to part her son from the princess. Will Hemangini fall in the trap of Kanchana Devi?
"The Passionate Princess" is a perfect historical fiction.

The story setup is at ancient India. The detailing of that period is perfectly done by the author. The author's writing style is rich and lucid. The editing and formatting is done rightly which is an advantage for the book. The characterization and detailing was the main reason to which made me to indulge into the plot. Coming to the book cover, it is beautifully designed with an picture of prince and princess holding their hands. I loved the elegance of the cover and it was perfect for the story inside.

In a nutshell, do you wanna indulge in a royal love story? Then, This book will be your perfect pick.

Thank you!
I had an amazing experience reading this book.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
115 reviews2 followers
November 8, 2021
This is beautiful historical romance read. This is about one sight love story. It is about marriage, facing problem, trust and emotions.

Princess Hemangini falls for Prince Devendra across the garden. They get married because they couldn't wait for happily ever after. Devendra’s mother Queen Kanchana Devi has other plans for the couple. Some or the problem mother Queen Kanchana was throwing just to make them apart. But something happens to shake up Hemangini.
What is the thing that will shake Hemangini?
Will she ever going to trust prince?
Will she ever allow prince to touch her?

This is the first historical romance book I read. The storyline is interesting. Plot in the book is greatly narrated. I loved the style the author wrote the book. The title itself is too attractive to read this book. The language is lucid. The author has written the story in a smooth way. I loved her way of writing because you can imagine the characters and picturise the story. I enjoyed reading this book because this is the first time I’m reading something new.

Overall I loved this book. It is a great book to go ahead with if you like to read historical romance. I recommend this book to those who like to read love story. It is fast spaced and easily understandable. I felt that this is a unique story to read which has something new like I enjoyed where Queen Kanchana tried her best to destroy their relationship but till the very end they both tried not to give up but something shows up and everything seems to be tough for Princess.
300 reviews
November 5, 2021
The Passionate Princess: A Historical Romance (The Princess Series Book 1)
by Sundari Venkatraman

This was a good book, I liked it a lot.
The love, the chemistry, the romance everything is superb. The message in the story is really fantastic and well explained.
Sundari Venkatraman has outdone herself with the concept, visualization and presentation of not only the characters but also the settings.
A well researched story, in terms of costumes, food, means of transport and currency. I never felt that the towns were fictitious, I actually felt that they really exist.
The plot mainly focuses on the bond of the lead characters and their background.
The Prince and the princess meet accidentally but fall in love at first sight.
The glimpse into their life when the messages took days to deliver and means transport were animals, is quite intriguing as well as exciting.
The development of the lead characters and their relationship along with the different situations the protagonists face is also being thoroughly examined.
I loved the book and I am looking forward to the next books in the Series.
The storyline is interesting. Plot in the book is greatly narrated. I loved the style the author wrote the book.
The language is very easy to understand. Even beginners can easily understand this message. I want to inform you here.
I recommend it to everyone because it is worth reading! It is very interesting to read.
The title itself is too attractive to read this book.
Highly recommended ,
Happy reading😌✌️
Profile Image for Bookfluencer.
84 reviews1 follower
November 8, 2021
@sundarivenkataraman is back again with another banger of a book, titled "The passionate princess", which is part one of her Princess series.

Though purely fictional, this story did catch the essence of the 15th-century kingdoms in India, perfectly. Right from the eating habits to clothing, no minute points were amiss in this grand historical retelling.

This romantic story revolves around a princess named Hemangini, and her love interest, Devendra, who is also a prince from the neighbouring kingdom. It is love at first sight for the prince and the princess, and they become such a sensational couple that even their fathers, the kings, decide on marrying the prince with the princess. Devendra’s mother, Kanchana Devi is very self-centred and smothers her son with her rules and opinion. Meanwhile, Hemangini learns that it is common in the Kingdom of Devendra to have multiple wives and she gets upset over Devendra for hiding this information. What happens next is a very intriguing read that will make sure that you don’t go to sleep without completing the book!

This is a very classic romance novel with its bits of anticipation, stolen kisses and intimate moments.

The language of this book was very simple, yet effective. The writing style was indeed impeccable! I recommend this book for all the romance lovers out there, also, do note that this is strictly 18+ (some lovemaking scenes were in detailed descriptions). The author has been doing a great job and I can’t wait to read more of her books after this one!
Profile Image for bangalimeyreads.
1,185 reviews29 followers
November 3, 2021
This is a fiction plot with an amazing blend of romance in it. The author has even included some influences from the past thus there is a touch of historical fiction too.

This book is the first in the series. It focuses on two characters - Prince Devendra and Princess Hemangini.

Devendra is the Prince of Indrapuri. He falls in love with Princess Hemangini, the prettiest girl the prince has ever come across. Both the characters fall for each other and their feelings developed with the plot.

The book follows the tale of these two characters, their meeting and falling for each other. They liked each other but will their love story have a happy ending as they have planned?

The plot mainly focuses on the bond of the lead characters and their background. The development of the lead characters and their relationship along with the different situations the protagonists face is also being thoroughly examined.

The book is being layered nicely with the romance. The contrasting characters involved in the plot kept me hooked till the end. The book didn't compromise on the quantity of romance as the romantic relationship between the two main characters shined throughout different scenarios in the plot, which was a good point of the book.

The characters development is well portrayed and each has been given sufficient scope to contribute to the plot. The language used is lucid. The narration of the book is kept simple and easy making it a comfortable read for all the readers.
Profile Image for Shreya Mehta.
272 reviews18 followers
November 8, 2021
I loved this mythology spice in romance genre. I have loved this author's work before and loved this story as well.

Price Devendra from Indrapuri travels to Mahendrapuri to explore this neighbor town but he had other intention as well to meet the well-spoken princess Hemangini. They were instantly attracted towards each other and fell in love. I just loved their chemistry. Despite being in their late teens, the princess was matured and intelligent.

However, when she got to know about other queens of her father-in-law, she was afraid whether her husband will also marry other women. She could never tolerate other woman in her prince's life.

Whether her doubts will get true? Will prince Devendra be loyal to her? Grab this book to get to know the answers.

Well, everyone wants a loyal life partner whether she is a princess or a normal girl. I loved both the main characters. They were an ideal couple. I would appreciate the author for this story and I am looking forward to read other stories in this series.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down. The characters were strongly developed. The language is flawless. I was hooked from the very first page. Definitely recommended to romance readers!
237 reviews17 followers
September 23, 2020
Cupid strikes the very instant Princess Hemangini falls into Prince Devendra’s arms. It looks like destiny is in favour of weaving a ‘lived happily forever’ story when the two royal families of Mahendrapuri and Indrapuri happily give their consent to the young couple to tie the knot. However, things don’t turn out to be that simple once the wedding rituals are over. Devendra’s mother Queen Kanchana Devi has other plans for the couple. If that was not all fate plays spoilsport. Princess Hemangini feels deceived. Why?... That’s a secret that only a reading of the book will reveal.

Crafted well, the story starts on a note of intrigue. As one meanders down the path that Princess Hemangini and Prince Devendra tread from the day destiny throws them together one can’t help but smile. The twists, the turns, the mischief, and the crafty plotting by the Queen Mother as well as the intelligence of Princess Hemangini add spice to a story that is presented in the author’s unique style, a style that makes even a steamy romance seem simple and sweet, devoid of vulgarity. Vivid with imagery, the story as it unfolds transports the reader to the age of Rajahs and Maharajas and offers a chance to live the sequence of events through words woven with finesse into its fabric.

VERDICT

A short yet engrossing read, ‘The Passionate Princess’ sees the power of love and patience take a relationship that could go sour, to its logical end. The book ends on an interesting note.





Profile Image for Bhavya.
Author 2 books8 followers
September 25, 2020
The Passionate Princess starts on a mysterious note and keeps the reader turning the pages till the book is finished.

The book, The Passionate Princess is set in the 1480s, and involves cities like Indrapuri and Mahendrapuri, the character names too are in sync with the setting and are sure to transport the reader into this royal romantic tale that Sundari has so deftly weaved.
The Princess literally falls for Prince Devendra and it does not take long for them to exchange hearts.
While the young couple has already fallen for each other, and can’t wait to begin their happily ever after, the Queen mother has her own plans for their future.
This steamy love story is narrated without an iota of vulgarity but carries vivid imagery. Right from the beauty of the old cities to the attire of the royalty, it all comes to life with Sundari Venkatraman’s narration. The characters, especially all the female characters have a lot of depth and colour to their personalities and I love it about the book.
I can’t wait to read the other books in the series.

Read it on my blog.
Profile Image for Arti.
660 reviews107 followers
September 23, 2020
The author has created the 1840s beautifully with cities like Indrapuri and Mahendrapuri. The names of the characters are also in line with the time. The setting is apt with the costumes and horses and carriages. A well researched story, in terms of costumes, food, means of transport and currency. I never felt that the towns were fictitious, I actually felt that they really exist.
I loved the characters, Hema is a strong woman and Deven knows what he needs to do. The chemistry between them was electric.
Though the cover is beautiful, but I felt that maybe the dresses on the cover could match the descriptions in the book.
I loved the book and I am looking forward to the next books in the Series.
Profile Image for Sadhana Wadhwa.
Author 6 books7 followers
October 13, 2020
Enraptures the reader from the word Go!

Step into the mediaeval period and witness the love story of Princess Hemangini and Prince Devendra unfold. What begins with an air of mystery, is suitably complemented by the first meeting between these two souls.. The Prince and the princess meet accidentally but fall in love at first sight. What follows is a beautiful tale of how they get married and are excited to begin the new life together.. But, what's a love story without a jab of deceit thrown in !

Sundari, as usual has woven a vivid tale of love and trust amidst the difficulties that get thrown in. Queen Kanchana Devi deserves a special mention - she's understandable and annoying at the same time, given the events in her life so far.

Overall, plunge into this one to get soaked in that mushy feeling..
Profile Image for Angela Peixoto.
889 reviews22 followers
September 22, 2020
I have run out of adjectives to describe Sundari Venkatraman's work.
As her first Historical Romance I think "The Passionate Princess" is a success. But one of the things that really impressed me was the explanation of the epoch made by the author at the beginning of the book. That way one has a better perception of the times the action develops in.
In short: yet another captivating and must read book by the Queen of Romance. Looking forward to the next books in the Series.
Profile Image for Neeru Rana.
1,025 reviews6 followers
January 1, 2022
❤️❤️

After this read I am gonna start reading Historic Romance.
I have always loved Sundari Mam's writing style. You become a integral part of it. And in this book she had me teleported to the past.
The storyline was amazing and kept me on the edge of the seat throughout the read.
The vivid description of everything from jewelery to clothing to houses to behaviour of people of that time made the read magical. Hats off for all the research about mid-fifteenth century.
Hemangini and Devendra make you believe in love and passion. To understand to commit.
The bond the share from the beginning brings a smile to you.
As they say it's easy to fall in love but hard to stay in love. Although, they have tied the knot there are revelations that could affect their relationship along with a mother-in-law who wants to get rid of the new bride.
It's a beautifully written journey of two strong and compassionate people who work and understand for their relationship.
A must read😁.
Profile Image for Amreen Shaikh.
1,020 reviews16 followers
October 2, 2020
Good read

Sundari ma'am always surprises me with her every new story. Each time the story is so good that I simply loose myself in it.
This story also is one of them. A very unique but excellent. The love, the chemistry, the romance everything is superb. The message in the story is really fantastic and well explained. You can feel women power in it.
Another blockbuster from ma'am.
Recommended to all the readers.
Profile Image for Shalini (readingwithmuffy).
151 reviews83 followers
October 21, 2020
Passionate Princess is a beautiful love story of Princess Hemangini and Prince Devendra. The book is short and sweet but the amount of research that went into making it a 'historical' romance is brilliant. I loved how the author took me to the age of Kings and Queens in the 1480s, describing in length the clothes they wore, the food they ate, the palace they lived in, the allies they had with neighboring kingdoms, the currency they used, and the mode of transportation. What can you expect other than a steamy romance? Strong women characters which is a must in every Sundari Venkatraman book!
Profile Image for Rubina.
Author 18 books87 followers
December 4, 2020
A Brilliant Historical Romance

Historical Romances are my all time favorite. Sundari has outdone herself with the concept, visualization and presentation of not only the characters but also the settings. She has created a time capsule where as a reader I am totally lost.

Once upon a time .... this thought process itself is nostalgic to me. When I would bundle up in a blanket and would be lost for hours listening to the stories told by mom or grandad. When the innocence of story telling was not a slave to marketing. Sundari’s stories have that power.

Where the prince is not shy of his faults. Where the princess is not a damsel in distress. Into this world of strong characters I could see the palaces, the rich clothings and the ornaments that will take you back to an era of love and valor. Loved it. I do hope to read more historical romances from her.
Profile Image for Deepa.
9 reviews
May 18, 2021
Decent ones. Nice character potrays and historical details are good to read.
Profile Image for Sneha Josie.
370 reviews9 followers
November 12, 2021
📍This is the story of Princess Hemangini and Prince Devendra who fell in love with each other. The prince of Indrapuri and princess of Mahendrapuri wishes to marry soon but then they do not know the trouble waiting for them. There is a villain in the family who tries to keep them apart due to their own evil schemes. Grab this book to know about the journey of the love birds who tries to live a peaceful life together.

📍The story is set in mid-15th century from 1481-1485 AD. The characters are not based on any real figures but they are the products of the writer's imagination. Her creative aspect made her pen this historical romance set in India. Though there are other characters like Kanchana Devi and others, the entire focus is on the protagonists only especially the portrayal of the princess is astonishing indeed.

📍Usage of strong female characters set in ancient era is always inspirational and increases curiosity. The style is simple and the plot is fast paced. The usage of literary techniques helps in visualisation of the scenes while reading.

📍Within 166 pages the writer has penned this romantic tale in an authentic way without exaggeration. There are steamy scenes which is handled well by the author. Being a regular reader of Sundari Venkatraman, it is indeed her style to handle these steamy romance scenes in a brilliant way. This book throws light upon love between two characters who tries to stand strong even when everything around them tries to break them apart.

📍Henceforth, this book is recommended to those who love to read historical fiction with steamy romance 🔥
Profile Image for Ruchi Singh.
Author 47 books124 followers
September 19, 2020
Author Sundari Venkatraman takes us to a exciting and colorful era back in time. The royals have always held a fascination for me as a reader. The glimpse into their life when the messages took days to deliver and means transport were animals, is quite intriguing as well as exciting. Princess Hema and Prince Deven struck a chord with me right at the beginning and I finished the story in one go. The locales and customs are described with great panache. I enjoyed this verbal treat from the author's desk.
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