Search - Beneath a Marble Sky

Beneath a Marble Sky is historical fiction at its best. Well researched and beautifully written this story of the building of the Taj Mahal is a beautiful story of love and its enduring qualities. Since very little is known about the actual story of the Taj Mahal, most of the story is indeed fiction, but based in what facts are known.

The story is told through the voice of Jahanara, daughter of the Shah Jahan and one of his wives Mumtaz Mahal. Jahanara relays the story of the building of the Taj Mahal to her granddaughters. In so doing she tells the tale of her parents great love for one another and her own forbidden love for the architect who comes to build the Taj Mahal after the death of her mother. We also learn the story of Jahanara's two brothers Dara and Aurangzeb who vie for the throne even though their father is still very much alive.

Vivid details make it seem as if you are seeing not only the building of the Taj, but also the harems, bazaars and living spaces of 17th century Hindustan. Also the universal feelings of love, loss and betrayal are brought wonderfully to life.

Absolutely one of the best novels I've ever read! The amazing story of the building of the Taj Mahal and the love that surpassed all other. A story of bravery, romance, determination, hatred and so much more. Truly, this is one of my all time favorite books I've ever read!

"Beneath a Marble Sky" is a beautiful story of a forbidden romance between the Mughul princess Jahanara and the architect who designed the Taj Mahal. The Princess Jahanara, eldest daughter of the Hindustani ruler Shah Jahan, tells the story in flashback form to her two granddaughters. The story is one of great loves, great treachery, and the building of one of the world's greatest monuments, the Taj Mahal. This was a wonderful story which made me want to learn more about the building of the Taj Mahal.

One of my all time favorites.

Lush and lovely, this book is a great example of historical fiction done well. It traces the history of the building of the Taj Mahal, from the perspectives of the individual members of the royal family whose father built it. Great period detail, great emotions and realistic happenings, this book is a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Amazing tale of a legendary move by one man to exalt the woman he loved. Told by his daughter, you will be drawn into the love story and choosing to side with her all along the way. This is the second John Shors book I've read and while this story is different, his exhilarating story style is the same. A must read!