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The Henna Artist

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The Henna Artist

By: Alka Joshi
Narrated by: Sneha Mathan
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About this listen

 A NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLER

A REESE WITHERSPOON x HELLO SUNSHINE BOOK CLUB PICK

"Captivated me from the first chapter to the final page."—Reese Witherspoon

Vivid 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 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.

“Eloquent and moving…Joshi masterfully balances a yearning for self-discovery with the need for familial love.”—Publishers Weekly

Look for The Secret Keeper of Jaipur and The Perfumist of Paris from New York Times bestselling author Alka Joshi! Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Fiction Literary Fiction Women's Fiction World Literature Marriage Heartfelt

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All stars
Most relevant
After a slightly dull start this story blossomed into one full of charm and elegance, history and culture. The author created the scenes in my imagination with ease, using beautiful descriptions of places, people and colours. The characters were strong and I really didn't want it to end!

Charming story, an easy listen.

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I really enjoyed this book, I didn't want to put it down! Very well narrated.

I couldn't stop listening

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A really amazing audiobook after a long time. I love stories of the old India and this was truly wonderful with all the herbal medicine tradition.

Beautiful story blended with history & herbalism

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I loved reading this book. Very interesting what happens in rich families in Jaipur

Inspiring

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I enjoyed the story but think the henna artist did a little too much over thinking analysis for me and it sometimes slowed the story a little. Having said that, I would recommend the book and I enjoyed the insights into post- independence India and Indian lives especially for women whether rich or poor. The story ended and I wanted to know more about Lakshmi’s life from then on. Maybe a sequel would work?

Good if a little overlong

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