Rebel Queen by Michelle Moran

The book weaves a story of an Indian Queen, who ‘rebelled’ against British regime in the 19th century. The story is conveyed through the eyes of the Queen’s closest confidante and most trusted soldier in her female army. The author shines a light on a time and place rarely explored in historical fiction.

The main voice of Queen’s confidante brings an interesting story of turbulent time of India and its conflict with the British Empire. It is a conflict imposed by the British and not a rebellion coming from the Queen. The only rebellion there is it comes from the rebels. And the Queen is a secondary character in this story. 

The Queen’s confidante is the main character and the book starts with her childhood and the relationship with her abusive grandmother. Therefore, the title is misleading. I think the original title of Heretic Queen would have been more appropriate as she was seen by some as heretic. 

The story is told in a vivid manner with many aspects of Indian culture well and colorfully presented. It is well-written and it is a page-turner from the beginning to the very end.

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