Ghost in the palace

Ghost in the Palace by Ashima Mahajan is a compelling historical novel blending romance and surprising humor. The story explores what occurs when death signifies not a conclusion, but a surprising new start. Ananya, a contemporary restaurateur, is transported from her everyday existence, awakening within the lavish yet perilous confines of an ancient empire. Dressed in fine silk and confronted by hostile stares, she is the newly appointed Queen Consort, a role immediately shadowed by mistrust. The Emperor disdains her, his principal mistress taunts her, and the court is rife with talk of ill omens. However, Ananya is not entirely isolated. A group of three spectral allies—a learned scholar, a boisterous military leader, and an energetic noblewoman—remain unseen by everyone except her. Guided by their ghostly advice, Ananya commences her journey through the treacherous court.