Synopses & Reviews
A remarkable novel of a humble village girl who became one of the most powerful women in India.Rampore, India, 1684. About to be burned alive on her late husband's funeral pyre, 17-year-old widow Moorti is rescued from a gruesome fate by a passing British merchant. Thus begins an extraordinary love story and incredible journey as the humble village girl Moorti transforms herself into Maria, becoming one of the most powerful women in India.
Starting a new life as a lowly kitchen maid, she relies on her wits and resourcefulness to rise through the ranks of the British East India Company to eventually become founder of the great city then known as Calcutta, the first city of the British Empire.
A tale of adventure, danger, hardship and heartbreak, excitement and romance, this is the enthralling tale of a truly remarkable woman, where fiction meets fact.
Synopsis
Rampore, India, 1684. About to be burned alive on her late husband's funeral pyre, 17-year-old widow Moorti is rescued from a gruesome fate by a passing British merchant. Thus begins an extraordinary love story and incredible journey as the humble village girl Moorti transforms herself into Maria, becoming one of the most powerful women in India.
Synopsis
A remarkable novel of a young widow following her dreams
Moorti - widowed at just 17 and about to be burned on her husband's funeral pyre - is saved from the fire by a mysterious Englishman. Taken to safety and given employment by her saviour Job Charnock, Moorti, renamed Maria, must embrace her new life amongst the English traders.
But the intelligent and talented Maria is not content to be a servant for the rest of her life, and seizes the opportunity to learn English. This, she hopes, will bring her closer to the kind and gentle Job. But with so many obstacles in her path, will she be able to overcome adversity and danger in the pursuit of her dreams?
Filled with the heat and beauty of India, Maria's story of compassion, hope and love lingers long after the final page.
About the Author
Bharti Kirchner is the author of five previous novels and four cookbooks. An award-winning cook, she has written numerous magazine articles and essays on food, travel, fitness and lifestyle. Born and brought up in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), India, she now lives in Seattle, Washington.