A NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLER A REESE WITHERSPOON x HELLO SUNSHINE BOOK CLUB PICK“Eloquent and moving…Joshi masterfully balances a yearning for self-discovery with the need for familial love.”—Publishers WeeklyVivid and compelling in its portrait of one woman’s struggle for fulfillment in a society pivoting between the traditional and the modern, The Henna Artist opens a door into a world that is … fulfillment in a society pivoting between the traditional and the modern, The Henna Artist opens a door into a world that is at once lush and fascinating, stark and cruel.
Escaping from an abusive marriage, seventeen-year-old Lakshmi makes her way alone to the vibrant 1950s pink city of Jaipur. There she becomes the most highly requested henna artist—and confidante—to the wealthy women of the upper class. But trusted with the secrets of the wealthy, she can never reveal her own…
Known for her original designs and sage advice, Lakshmi must tread carefully to avoid the jealous gossips who could ruin her reputation and her livelihood. As she pursues her dream of an independent life, she is startled one day when she is confronted by her husband, who has tracked her down these many years later with a high-spirited young girl in tow—a sister Lakshmi never knew she had. Suddenly the caution that she has carefully cultivated as protection is threatened. Still she perseveres, applying her talents and lifting up those that surround her as she does.
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The Henna Artist is a beautifully realized and evocative novel set in mid-century India after independence.
The heroine, Lakshmi, flees her small village, and an abusive marriage to create a new life for herself in the larger city of Jaipur. A henna artist, healer, and cunning businesswoman, she finds her first clients among Jaipur’s prostitutes. Just as she begins to gain success and make her reputation in the houses of the wealthier, and more discerning, Jaipur women, her plans are interrupted by the arrival in Jaipur of the husband she abandoned, and a younger sister that she didn’t know she had.
I loved reading about this time in India’s long history, the energy and excitement of a newly-independent nation, and the range of characters – from prostitutes to Maharanis to Lakshmi’s young assistant, Malik, to a singularly charming talking parrot, Madho Singh.
Joshi has an understanding, and connection, to this place and period of history, and her depth of knowledge, skillful plotting and period descriptions make this novel an engaging and enthralling read.
I could completely immerse myself in this story. I learned a lot about the Indian culture and history through the tale of a young girl who escapes her abusive, arranged marriage. I knew nothing about henna artists, so the entire aspect of that art, along with the use of plants, herbs, and natural cures was an interesting part of the book. I believe I have found a new author to follow. Highly recommend.
Well written and keeps you enthralled. You can smell and taste the flavors of India.
I just loved this book and the sequel. I can’t wait for the third in the series. Alka Joshi
I really enjoyed this book, as the rituals of the painting the henna tattoos was interesting.
Very interesting glimpse into the world of the Indian caste. The mix with keeping up appearances and dealing with a teen-aged sister was realistic!
There is an expression that books allow the reader to travel anywhere. This book proves it. I was carried to India through a story so vividly descriptive and well researched. I learned so much!
This is a story of an independent woman who works hard as a henna artist and herbalist to make a life for herself. Her efforts are interrupted by the arrival of a younger sister she’d never met and now must care for. Just as her career is reaching new and ultimate opportunities, complications set in. Gossip, shame, difficult choices, and the caste system begin to turn against her. She must deal with disappointment and decide if she can take a new direction in her life and career.
I found the characters to be well developed and believable. The setting was detailed and real. The history was important and a driving force for the story. I’m so glad I had the chance to read this book!
A rich and colorful story set in 1950s India, an inspiring heroine determined to be an independent success in a society that makes it so difficult…such a captivating tale well told, I couldn’t put it down!
I enjoyed this book set in 1950’s India. Henna Art fascinates me and that is the reason I was drawn to the book in the beginning. But once I started listening I was hooked and just didn’t want to stop. Wow, Alka Joshi for your first book you have done an amazing job and I can’t wait to read more you write. I would love to see this book make into a movie.
How interesting all these books about India. This is very accurate of life in India as I saw it. Everyday something was a lesson for an American in India. Of course, I never got a truly objective vision around me and unless you are Indian living in India the closet we can come to knowing what it is really like is to read these books.
I highly recommend this book. What an interesting story with complex characters. Can’t wait to read the next book by this author.
This book was exceptional! I felt like I was transported to India! It was real and raw and everything a five-star read should be. I loved the characters and felt a connection toward each of them, for one thing, or another. The book was well-written and definitely a page-turner. It made you feel the love that estranged sisters can have. I can’t believe I waited so long to read this. Pick up this book today, you won’t be disappointed!
Great story and interesting cultural dynamic.
I love historical fictions that teach you about new cultures and time frames. This book is set in the 1950’s in Jaipur. The author did a spectacular job of describing the era and the environment. I was pulled in from the get-go. You fall in love with all of the characters. When they make their mistakes, you continue to root for them and hope that they win in the end. Would highly recommend this book for anyone that likes historical fiction, Indian fiction, and/or beautiful and expressive descriptions.
A iittle hard to read but lots of information about Indian Culture and festivities.
Set in 1950’s India, this fictional story gave me some insights into the culture of an era. I am looking forward to reading the author’s sequel to be published in June, 2021.
Just loved this book, from the richly detailed characters to the informative story!
Learning about henna, and the cultural ceremonies during which it is used is very interesting. Coupled with the personalities of the characters and the idea that when one door closes another opens made for a most enjoyable read.
Memorable characters in a terrific setting. I absolutely loved this book!
I would like to make an appointment with this brilliant Henna artist.
Irene Gordon