(5/2/2023)
In this captivating new novel by New York Times bestselling author Alka Joshi, the henna artist Lakshmi arranges for her apprentice, Malik, to intern at the Jaipur Palace. The story is set in the spring of 1969, with Lakshmi now married and directing the Healing Garden in Shimla. Malik, having completed his private school education, meets a young woman named Nimmi before leaving to apprentice at the Jaipur Royal Palace. The latest project in the Facilities Office is the construction of a state-of-the-art cinema. As Malik navigates the Pink City, he discovers that power and money still reign supreme among the wealthy class, and secrets remain buried. When the cinema's balcony collapses on opening night, Malik suspects foul play and sets out to uncover the truth. As a former street child, he knows when to keep his own counsel and applies that lesson as he unravels a web of deceit.