Short Synopsis
From award-winning author Elle Newmark comes a sweeping novel that brings to life two love stories, ninety years apart, set against the backdrop of war-torn India.

Full Synopsis
In 1947, American historian and World War II veteran Martin Mitchell wins a Fulbright Fellowship to document the end of British rule in India. His wife, Evie, convinces him to take her and their young son along, hoping a shared adventure will mend their marriage, which has been strained by war.

But other places, other wars. Martin and Evie find themselves stranded in a colonial bungalow in the Himalayas due to violence surrounding the partition of India between Hindus and Muslims. In that house, hidden behind a brick wall, Evie discovers a packet of old letters, which tell a strange and compelling story of love and war involving two young Englishwomen who lived in the same house in 1857.

Drawn to their story, Evie embarks on a mission to piece together her Victorian mystery. Her search leads her through the bazaars and temples of India and the dying society of the British Raj. Along the way, Martin's dark secret is exposed, unleashing a new wedge between the couple. As India struggles toward independence, Evie struggles to save her marriage, pursuing her Victorian ghosts for answers.

Bursting with lavish detail and vivid imagery of Calcutta and beyond, The Sandalwood Tree is a powerful story about betrayal, forgiveness, fate, and love.

"Will appeal to [listeners] who enjoy Anita Desai, Keith Heller, and perhaps even Anita Shreve." ---Library Journal

"The atmosphere and flavor of India in both time periods is beautifully drawn, and Evie is an excellent character." ---Booklist

"Newmark deftly illustrates the cultural parallels of both eras, and blends the two narratives well." ---Publishers Weekly

"Owing to Eyre's sensitive use of subtle accents, listeners easily recognize individual characters and smoothly transition between two turbulent eras in Indian history and between British society and the boisterous streets of the Indian village." ---AudioFile