Kohinoor Paperback – January 1, 2018

I LOVED this book. I find that whole ancient era of Indian history fascinating but using this famous diamond as the focal point was a very different point of view. The descriptions, taken from first person accounts and diaries, really brought home the fact that these were REAL PEOPLE with this amazing inconceivable wealth of gold and jewels. The lengths they went to in order to obtain and keep the jewels are incredible. In the end, no one gets to “keep” anything in this world……

Detailed writing of the events with notes from the past makes it interesting. Also, the historical events depicted throughout this book revolve around, as the name suggests, Kohinoor diamond. To read the history and different highlighting events of the past thru the lens of Kohinoor makes it intriguing. Worth the read!

Dalrymple's masterful storytelling leaves you glued to the book, seeing a world long gone leaving behind its shade which casts its shadow in today's world. Queen Elizabeth II, never wore it and Queen Camilla is not going to wear the Kohinoor at her coronation. The British monarchy had never been so close to being seen out. Kohinoor or not. Let's see how long and powerful the shadow lies.

So much that wr did not know. Interesting historical facts enhance the tale. It is amazing how easily the colonial manipulated their targets, but also the brutality of the Asian rulers.

Must read!Like an epic fantasy story full of violence, sex and betrayal.Amazing and all true.Would read again to picture these scene again.

Thought Provoking well researched, Author kept the interest intact throughout the book . Loved it. Would recommend to anyone to read if they would like to know the Journey of the Kohinoor to its present state in an unbiased and closer to the true events.

Excellent research, and flow of writing keeps the reader interested till the end. Must read book if you are interested in history.

Excellently narrated. A vivid history of the diamond. A compelling story. Lucid and cogent writing style. Really enjoyed reading from beginning to end

I enjoyed reading this very much. A lot of descriptive explanations of the journey of the Koinoor. Would recommend. Well done.

I heard the pair on their podcast - Empire.The way the explained things prompted me to buy the book to know more details. Very well written.

This is an exceptional and fascinating history of the Kohinoor. You will understand what the hullabaloo is all about once you are done reading this riveting story! William Dalrymple is great as usual but Anita Anand is a revelation: her section is actually juicier and better fleshed-out.

A fascinating insight on the diamond and the turbulent times of all the rulers concerned