One book I’ll never get tired of recommending or rereading: Ponniyin Selvan.
It’s actually a series — beginning with Aditya Chozhan, the crown prince and heir to the throne, and leading up to the eventual ascension of Arulmozhi Varman, later known as Raja Raja Chozhan. (That part happens off-page, but the story beautifully builds toward it.) I’d say more, but anything beyond this would be a spoiler.
But damn, does it pack a punch. If you love angst, drama, action, a hint of romance, political conspiracy, clever plotting, and women who can manipulate events without ever being caught in the act, this is the book for you.
The best part? Nothing ever feels over the top. Despite its rich mix of genres and subplots, the story stays incredibly tight and immersive. It’s one of those rare epics that keeps you turning the pages and staying up late just to know what happens next — at least, that’s how it was for me!
11/10 recommend.
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