The Henna Artist: A Reese's Book Club Pick (The Jaipur Trilogy, Book 1) By Alka Joshi

Alka Joshi's "The Henna Artist," a New York Times bestseller and Reese Witherspoon's Book Club pick, unfolds a captivating tale of Lakshmi, escaping an abusive marriage to find herself in 1950s Jaipur. Renowned for her henna artistry and sage advice, Lakshmi becomes a trusted confidante to the city's wealthy women. Yet, she guards her own secrets fiercely.

Balancing her dreams of independence with the need for discretion, Lakshmi faces the peril of jealous gossips. Her cautious path takes an unexpected turn when her long-lost husband arrives with a previously unknown sister in tow. The very caution that safeguarded her independence is now under threat.

Joshi skillfully paints a vivid portrait of Lakshmi's journey—a struggle for fulfillment in a society caught between tradition and modernity. As Lakshmi navigates complexities, applying her talents to uplift those around her, she grapples with newfound family ties and the fragility of the reputation she's built.

"Eloquent and moving," praises Publishers Weekly, noting Joshi's masterful balance between self-discovery and the yearning for familial love. The narrative offers a rich exploration of Lakshmi's world, juxtaposing lushness with cruelty, tradition with change, and the delicate dance between personal ambition and familial ties.

The success of "The Henna Artist" has led to the anticipation of Joshi's subsequent novels, including "The Secret Keeper of Jaipur" and "The Perfumist of Paris," promising readers more immersive journeys into Joshi's intricate storytelling. 📚❤️