The Last Queen Book Review: A Gripping Tale of Strength and Resistance

Historical fiction has always been a hit or miss for me, but The Last Queen by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni managed to captivate my attention right from the start. This novel tells the story of Jindan, a remarkable woman who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most powerful queens of India’s Sikh Empire in the nineteenth century.

My Rating:

❤️❤️❤️❤️🤍

"A gripping tale of strength and resistance."

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What is The Last Queen about?

At its core, The Last Queen is a powerful tale of a woman who fights for her people, her family, and her legacy. The book follows the life of Maharani Jindan Kaur, the youngest wife of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and her transformation from a sheltered girl to a fierce queen who dares to stand against the British Empire.

The novel is divided into four sections: Girl, Bride, Queen, and Rebel, each chronicling a different phase of Jindan’s life. You witness her journey from being the daughter of a royal kennel keeper to her becoming a queen, and then a warrior fighting to protect her kingdom from British invasion.

One of the quotes that struck me the most comes from the latter part of the book:

“[This] will bring all his comfortable beliefs about the British crashing down. They’ve been his patrons and friends […] He has remade himself in their image. What would he be left with if I showed him their true face?”

Why did The Last Queen impress me?

I’ve often found historical novels to be too dry or too distant, but The Last Queen strikes the perfect balance. It’s a story of political intrigue, betrayal, and a fight for sovereignty. Through Jindan’s eyes, you see the fall of the Sikh Empire, the treachery of the British, and the internal struggles within her own court.

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s writing is both lyrical and accessible. She paints a vivid picture of nineteenth-century Punjab, while also diving deep into the emotional turmoil Jindan faces. The narrative is full of tension, as Jindan navigates the intricate politics of the Sikh Empire and stands defiant in the face of the British.

The storytelling is immersive, drawing you into the grandeur of the royal lifestyle while also giving a glimpse of the cultural and historical context of old Punjab. It beautifully captured both the opulence of the royal court and the harsh realities of political life.

To read or not to?

The Last Queen is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially if you’re interested in stories with strong female leads. It offers a refreshing perspective on the Indian history, focusing on a lesser-known but incredible figure. It’s both engaging and informative.

Final Thoughts

The Last Queen by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a compelling portrayal of strength and resistance. It shows you the power of one woman’s determination to fight for her people.

With its rich historical setting and deeply emotional narrative, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those who admire stories of strong female protagonists. Chitra’s engaging writing style brings the world to life, making you feel every triumph and heartbreak Jindan experiences.

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