Publisher's Synopsis
Asoka is a puzzle to historians. As a young king, he killed like Genghis Khan, and yet, became the St. Paul of Buddhism. He abandoned his war-mongering religion and became a great humanitarian. In 3rd century B.C, he provided equality, social justice, universal healthcare, promoted religious tolerance which the which the Democrats are struggling to do in 21st century. He built the first beautiful monuments in India. Based on serious historical research, this is the first biographical fiction which explores the achievements and the mystery of an over-towering historical figure. His grandfather established the first empire that united India. It was prince Asoka who put down a secessionist movement in Taxila--now in Pakistan. After his father's death, he kills his brothers and seizes the throne. But the woman he loves, is in love with an Egyptian soldier. After some twists and turns, he wins the hand of the beautiful daughter of governor. Ever restless, he then hankers to become a great conqueror and invades Kalinga (modern Orissa). About half-a-million men are slaughtered. What war does to Asoka not only changes the history of India but is without a parallel in the history of the world. It is a fascinating story of love, suffering, war, and loss. Yet, it is more than the story of a great historical figure. 'Asoka' is also the history of India's golden age. In his World History, H.G. Wells called Asoka the greatest king in history. Why? 'Asoka' has received critical acclaim. The Asian Age (published from London and major cities in India) called it "a magical story of love"; the prestigious Hindu Literary Review described it as an "epic" and "a rollicking roller-coaster of a book that thrills, touches our emotions...and enchants with its descriptions." And the readers have almost unanimously described it as a 'masterpiece.'
