FICTION

A Woman of Angkor

by John Burgess
River Bks., dist. by Antique Collectors Club. Apr. 2013. 500p. ISBN 9786167339252. pap. $14.95. F
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Built in the 12th century under the reign of Suryavarman, Angkor Wat stands as the largest religious monument in the world. It is also the backdrop for the life of Lady Sray, wife of Nol and mother of Bopa and Sovan. King Suryavarman becomes involved in their lives as Nol becomes the monarch's close confidant and Lady Sray fights to hide a secret connection to the king. Dangerous entanglements grow when Bopa becomes the king's concubine and Sovan designs Angkor Wat with a unique architectural vision. Ultimately, a rebellion forces Sray and her family to question their loyalty to one another and to the king.
VERDICT Former Washington Post reporter Burgess, who lived in Southeast Asia for eight years, displays his in-depth knowledge of Khmer civilization and beautifully translates history into fiction in his debut novel. In this epic story, he devotes much time to developing the characters and linking their lives to the events that led to the creation of the awe-inspiring Hindu temple. Although the history of this region might be too complex for casual readers, those with a serious interest in Asian history and culture will find this book fascinating. [Highlighted in "Editors' Spring Picks: Titles That Have Gotten Us Talking," LJ 2/15/13.—Ed.]
Reviewed by Madeline Solien, Deerfield P.L., IL , Apr 01, 2013
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