Patel's choice to empower a known character from an epic tale is just what I needed to read. With a lens geared towards equality and self-actualization, she walks us through Kaikeyi's determination to be active in choosing her own path, in not buckling to the patriarchal ties that would have her just be a wife and mother: being seen but not heard, being taught but not consulted. 

At every stage in Kaikeyi's life, we are aware of the societal expectations and barriers that hinder her from exploring what she is interested in and capable of learning. We also see the ways in which she chooses to subvert and challenge them. 

This is so well written and considered. The layers of the main character are thought out and develop from strength to strength while examining human fallibility and selfishness.

What pleased me the most is how the fragility of maleness was depicted and the ways in which their egos were so sorely offended and dented by the independence and power of women from all walks of life.