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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 complete Jaipur Trilogy:
  • Book 1: The Henna Artist
  • Book 2: The Secret Keeper of Jaipur
  • Book 3: The Perfumist of Paris
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if you have ever been to india this book will revive all your memories again. a bit predictable but so beautifully written you will be happy to go along for the ride.

nostalgic of a time india

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Exquisite writing. Story line. Performance. Brilliant. Emotive. Educational. Captivating. It was just a beautiful book!

Loved every moment! 😁

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This book held my attention all the way through and I enjoyed its tales of the many layers of Indian society in the 1950s after independence and the trials of the women, no matter what the circumstances of their birth brought them. It was beautifully read and a pleasure to listen to.

An enjoyable and evocative listen

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such a nice voice to listen too.. got totally immersed into the story perfect listening

1st ever Audiblle

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hooked. beautifully written. big fan. can't wait for my next credit to listen to the next one .

loved

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