Shadow Princess
The norm in the 16th-century Mughal Indian imperial palace is for a lesser wife from the harem to become chief confidante of the Shah and female head of the household upon the death of a favorite wife. Jahanara, however, assumes that role upon the death of her mother, Mumtaz Mahal, becoming comforter and advisor to the revered Shah Jahan. Her sister, Roshanara, vies with her for power and even for a lover, as the Shah or Bapa, father, will allow neither to marry. He is only concerned about marrying off and carefully placing his sons in power and ensuring that the correct son eventually succeeds him as Emperor.
Not presenting a stereotypical plot, this story concerns the building of the Taj Mahal in tribute to Mumtaz Mahal, The Luminous Tomb, and other lesser burial sites for royalty and nobility, each gorgeously and intricately planned, constructed, and decorated. The novel is also a cultural exposé of Indian art, music, dress, bloody sport, jewelry, food and so much more of this historical period, all included with such delicate and yet precise explanation that the details enhance rather than detract from this fascinating tale. Obedience is inviolate, that is, until the opinion of the Empire begins to sway away from the expected heir. Assassination of male siblings is an acceptable act that mandates a powerful son do it – or it most certainly will be done to the one implementing a successful coup. Character is the definer of quality leadership, not necessarily one’s place in the line of succession.
The reader comes to know Jahanara well in so many different facets of her engaging, complex personality and actions. Shadow Princess is an exquisite historical novel by an obviously talented writer.
