Kaikeyi, the queen who in the Ramayana demands that Rama be exiled and her son Bharata be crowned, is usually remembered as a villain. Here she narrates her own life. She grows up as a princess with a gift for magic, marries King Dasharatha, makes alliances, and works to protect her kingdom. Patel traces the events that lead her to the choice that defines her in the epic.
It is for readers who like feminist retellings of myth in the manner of Circe, and who want a sympathetic view of a character traditionally blamed. Familiarity with the Ramayana helps but is not required.
Balanced in tone; a moderate read.
Best for readers like The Story Seeker. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 2022
- Language
- EN
