Black Narcissus: Now a haunting BBC drama starring Gemma Arterton

A BBC drama, "The House of Women," is based on a novel by Anita Desai. The mountaintop palace, once a harem, is now abandoned and haunting. The Sisters of Mary establish a convent there, but the isolation and emptiness of the mountain lead to tragic consequences.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

A haunting BBC drama, starring Gemma Arterton and Diana Rigg, has been released. The Daily Telegraph describes it as a remarkable and beautiful book. Amanda Coe, in her review for the Evening Standard, expresses envy for anyone reading it for the first time. She praises Godden's genius for storytelling and calls him a master of historical fiction.

The mountaintop palace, once a vibrant hub of laughter and music, sits abandoned and haunting in the High Himalayas. Built for the General's harem, it now stands as a symbol of isolation and emptiness. The palace is bestowed upon the Sisters of Mary, and what was once known as the House of Women becomes the Convent of St Faith. Nestled close to the heavens, the nuns feel inspired, working tirelessly to establish their school and hospital. However, as the isolation and emptiness of the mountain take their toll, passions long repressed emerge with tragic consequences.

The drama delves into the lives of the nuns, exploring their struggles, sacrifices, and the complexities of their relationships. It sheds light on the challenges they face in a secluded and isolated environment, where the boundaries between faith and humanity are blurred. The palace's grandeur and the surrounding landscape serve as a backdrop to the emotional turmoil and personal journeys of the characters.

With its captivating storytelling, stunning visuals, and powerful performances, the BBC drama "The Abandoned Palace" is a haunting and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who choose to live a life of devotion and service, and the consequences of repressed emotions and unfulfilled desires.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 133 x 205 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349014043