
India, c. 377 CE
The mighty Gupta Empire stands on the brink of collapse. After the celebrated reign of Samudragupta, his ineffectual son Ramagupta inherits the throne at Pataliputra. His marriage to the Licchavi princess Dhruvadevi secures a vital political alliance, but beyond the empire’s western frontier, the formidable Saka ruler Rudrasena waits for the right moment to strike.
In Malwa, Ramagupta’s ambitious half-brother Chandragupta plays a dangerous game. Secretly travelling to the Saka capital of Ujjayini, he builds a network of spies, gathers intelligence, and courts discontent within the enemy’s ranks—actions that could preserve the empire or shatter the fragile peace.
As the crisis deepens, Dhruvadevi faces an impossible choice. Should she remain loyal to her husband despite his disastrous leadership and his ill-treatment, or place her faith in Chandragupta—the capable, charismatic prince she secretly admires—before the Gupta Empire is lost forever?
Imprint: India Penguin
Published: Sep/2026
ISBN: 9789377300104 (Paperback)
Length : 386 Pages
MRP : ₹499.00