Title:
The Secret of the Phoenix

Author:
Joanna Challis

Published By:
Wings ePress

ISBN #:
Electronic
1-59088-255-3
Print
1-59088-811-1

Release Date:
Available Now

Format:
Electronic
& Print

An Indian Princess changes her destiny when she escapes from a forced betrothal to a cruel man…but life outside of the palace walls is far from what she had imagined.

Anjika Tabia is the only legitimate heir to her grandfather, Maharaja Namdu. She has been raised in opulence and is well educated. Anjika has been taught the stories of the Indian gods and goddesses and how to behave as an Indian princess, observing the customs and rituals of her people. However, she is a curious young woman and does not understand why she must always adhere to the traditional ways. Anjika knows that there is a whole world outside of the palace and is determined to see it. Her mother fell in love with an Englishman and had run away with him because their marriage was not allowed. Sadly, both of Anjika’s parents were killed and their little blue eyed, blonde daughter was brought back to the palace, never to be told of her father’s homeland. Anjika carries her mother’s locket always because it secretly conceals a photo of her father. The Maharaja has insisted that Anjika will marry the man he has chosen. Anjika despises Lord Kasim, so she is drugged to ensure that the ceremony runs smoothly. With some help and distractions, Anjika escapes the palace.

When Anjika awakens, she is told that she was found in a back street, naked except for the locket. She has no idea who she is or even if she is British or Indian. A blow to the head has left Anjika without an identity. Her rescuer, Nicholas Cameron even suggests that she is addicted to opium. She hopes that she will regain her memory when she recovers, but it is a slow process. Nicholas visits her bedside frequently. He is handsome and charming. He knows how to rouse her temper, enjoying her heated responses. Anjika is not impressed by Nicholas’s reputation with loose women and wants him to know that he will only be a good friend to her. She needs his aid in tracing her past; their only clues are a small branding on the palm of her hand and the locket.

Joanna Challis takes her readers on a picturesque journey through sultry India, across the sea to London and an estate in the cool British climate. Her tale is set during Queen Victoria’s reign, a time in which India fought against the control of the British Empire. True to this author’s style, Anjika’s own journey is of epical proportions. As she travels, Anjika learns of her own nature, if not her identity. She easily makes new friends and adapts to an unfamiliar role, accepting the strange food and clothing. Anjika must also learn a whole new standard of behaviour and expectations. She never quite fits in either society, but will not compromise her own inner beliefs to become accepted. It will take a strong man to handle a woman like Anjika. A man like Nicholas Cameron, who accepts her rebuffs and still supports her. Although it would be easy for Nicholas to try to compromise and control Anjika, he senses that these moves will push her away. She must discover the treasure that Nicholas knows he is for herself.

Readers who enjoy adventure and mystery combined with a traditional romance, must not miss The Secret of the Phoenix. This author loves to surprise her readers, keeping the best for last. The plot takes many twists and turns before you reach the heart-stopping last chapters. Joanna Challis is firmly on my list of favourite authors; I can’t wait for her next romantic adventure!



Reviewed by: Naomi