The Secret Keeper Of Jaipur by Alka Joshi is engaging, intriguing, gripping, enthralling, rich in detail, and so much more. It is a fantastic follow-up to The Henna Artist. The story of this novel is set in 1969, 12 years after Lakshmi and her assistant Malik have left Jaipur to leave a new life in a small town in northern India. Lakshmi is joyfully married and Malik, a new university graduate, is prepared to start a career. He gets back to Jaipur to work for an old friend of theirs, yet while much has changed, the past Lakshmi wanted to escape is still there. I really liked this book as much as the first.
The story is narrated in Malik and Lakshmi Point of views, as well as an another person, Nimmi. She’s a Himalayan tribeswoman whose spouse died in an accident just before the birth of their second child. She lives in Shimla now with her two children and is giving Lakshmi the flowers, plants, and spices she utilizes in her natural remedies. She’s additionally in a relationship with Malik and fears losing him to a more educated, woman in Jaipur. Through her Joshi presents another point of view, that of individuals who live in the Himalayan lower regions.
This spin-off was fairly more adventurous, with gold smuggling and a scandal. There was danger for many and Lakshmi should get involved to ensure her friends safety. It is not difficult to engage in this story. I liked the characters allot and I never fail to learn something about the way of life of another country during a different time. Definitely there were times I didn’t liked Lakshmi, however as the story unfurls, I understand her activities. Malik is the star of this book. It was great to see him grow up. He was faithful, honest and caring.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy reading about other countries, cultures and historical fiction. The Secret Keeper of Jaipur by Alka Joshi felt like visiting old friends. I am looking forward to the final book in this trilogy.
Also Read: The Good Lie: By Alessandra Torre | Brilliant Psychological Thriller With Lots of Twists
