A Woman of Angkor

This debut novel brings to life the ancient culture of Cambodia through the eyes of Sray, a woman whose destiny intertwines with the famed Angkor civilization.

In A Woman of Angkor, John Burgess immerses readers in the vibrant world of 12th-century Cambodia, a time when the majestic temples of Angkor were being constructed and revered. At the heart of the story is Sray, a young woman whose beauty and grace draw comparisons to the heroines of Hindu epics. Living in the shadows of a towering stone temple, she harbors a secret that could alter her quiet existence. When destiny calls her to the royal court, Sray's life takes a dramatic turn, leading her to navigate the complexities of loyalty, love, and ambition amidst the grandeur of the Khmer Empire.

As Sray becomes entangled with the powerful king Suryavarman II, her husband Nol, who is a master of silk parasols, struggles to maintain their bond. The narrative explores the tension between personal desires and societal expectations, as Sray grapples with her newfound prominence and the trials it brings. The backdrop of ancient rituals and the construction of the iconic Angkor Wat temple adds depth to her journey, revealing the rich cultural heritage of a civilization that would eventually fade into the jungle.

Through Sray's eyes, readers experience the beauty and complexity of life in a bygone era. The novel not only sheds light on the architectural marvels of Angkor but also delves into the mysteries surrounding the civilization's choices, including the enigmatic decision to orient Angkor Wat to the west. A Woman of Angkor is a poignant exploration of identity, history, and the enduring spirit of a woman caught between two worlds.