1969. Lakshmi, now married to Dr. Jay Kumar, directs the Healing Garden in Shimla. Malik has finished his private school education, and leaves to apprentice at the Facilities Office of the Jaipur Royal Palace. He finds that not much has changed as he navigates the Pink City of his childhood. Power and money still move seamlessly among the wealthy class, and favors flow from Jaipur's Royal Palace, but only if certain secrets remain buried. When the balcony of the Facilities Office's new cinema collapses on opening night, blame is placed where it is convenient. Searching for the truth, Malik untangles a web of lies. -- Adapted from book jacket

Includes recipes. Series information from Amazon.com. Sequel to: The henna artist. 20 unnumbered pages at the back of the book includes: acknowledgments, glossary of terms, Indian gold: a woman's retirement fund; Taking inspiration from Indian food, and two recipes.