The Last Queen by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Historical retellings rarely get everything right. I’m truly moved. This book captures the essence of the woman so beautifully, that even my permanently high standards for the genre, are amazed. At first, I honestly thought I wouldn’t enjoy all parts equally, but the story flows so effortlessly. The book never once let me down.
Devakaruni nails the tone from the start. The questionable political decisions are anchored in a chain of events that might seem impulsive but never unjustified. The characters who matter are vivid, though the real depth is reserved for Jindan, with everyone else appearing exactly as they did in her life: meaningful, but peripheral. The liberties taken to fill historical gaps feel authentic, textured, and completely earned.

It also reminded me, sharply, that we still aren’t angry enough about colonialism. The plot unfurls smoothly, the history is explained simply without ever feeling simplified, and even briefly mentioned characters evoke emotion. I haven’t felt this kind of a subtly convincing patriotism from a book in a long time. Despite covering years that hold centuries worth of history, the pacing never drags or rushes. It’s seamless.

Devakaruni’s choice to show the history of colonialism through a woman’s eyes adds layers most retellings would otherwise miss: motherhood, loyalty, small acts of courage, quiet sacrifices. It’s easily one of the most balanced and powerful books I’ve read.

A take it or leave it, if I may: I read The Mountain of Light by Indu Sundaresan earlier this year, which gave me context about the Kohinoor, but I’d recommend to read this one first. I would feel like a spiritual sequel.