The Emperor of the Sorcerers

Budha-svamin tells the epic tale of the youthful exploits of prince Nara-vahana-datta. It is indeed a great story, as its Sanskrit title declares. Epic in scope and scale, it has everything that a great story should: adventure, romance, suspense, intrigue, tragedy and comedy. The reader is taken from royal palaces to flying sorcerers' mountain fastnesses via courtesans' bedrooms and merchant ships. The frame story narrates Nara-vahana-datta's progress culminating in his enthronement as Emperor of the Sorcerers, winning twenty-six wives along the way. Volume One's adventures end with his lute contest and marriage to Gandharva-datta. The fast and witty narrative eschews lengthy description and provides insights into ancient India.