1857, India.

At nineteen years old, Sita is the shining star of Queen Lakshmi of India's imperial guard, having pledged herself to a life of celibacy in the name of protecting the young ruler.

When Sita agrees to train Lakshmi in the art of military combat, a close friendship develops between the two women. But trouble soon threatens - Lakshmi's court is dangerously divided and rumours are rife that the country is at risk. Meanwhile, in London, advisors to Queen Victoria are looking to extend the power of the Commonwealth, and India is coveted as the next jewel in the imperial crown.

In the ensuing battle, will the bond between Lakshmi and Sita be broken for ever?

"Moran is at her storytelling best in The Last Queen of India, melding fascinating history and imaginative fiction into a beautiful and powerful story of love, loss, heartbreaking choices and breathtaking courage. Immaculately researched and packed with high emotion, high drama and a cast of dynamic characters, this is a wonderful, sweeping story with a compelling sense of time and place that is sure to delight fans of historical fiction" - Lancashire Evening Post