Picked this one up at my local UBS. It's been on my wishlist for a while, and only cost me a buck. :D Gotta love it when that happens.

From the Publisher
The Mistress of Spices the story of Tilo, a young woman born in another time in a faraway place who is trained in the ancient art of spices and ordained as a mistress charged with special powers. Once fully initiated in a rite of fire, the now immortal Tilo - in the gnarled and arthritic body of an old woman - travels through time to present-day Oakland, California, where she opens a spice shop from which she administers spices as curatives to her customers. Tilo can see into people's hearts and minds, but it is a mistress's duty to keep herself at a distance. Her inability to resist involving herself in the lives of her customers, however, brings her into conflict with the "old one," her teacher and mentor, who watches over her from afar. And her romantic pursuit of a handsome stranger - an even greater offense - threatens not only the course of true love but her very existence. Ultimately, she is forced to choose between the supernatural life of an immortal and the vicissitudes of modern life.

I have heard that you either love this book or hate it. I loved it. It was well written and interesting from the very first page. Tilo was a charming protagonist and I grew to love her and was sad to see the book end. Being a current resident of India, I am exposed to almost all of the spices she mentions. It was interesting to read about some of their alternate uses (other than making food tasty.) I don't know how much was actually true, but it was largely believable. I am happy with the ending and though rather pat, it was reasonable.

I will be passing this one on to another reader here in India.

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Mailing off to banyantree to read and enjoy. Happy bookcrossing!

to be read...thanks to arugh48187 for sending it.

Excellent book - it chronicles the saga of an Indian travelling to and living in USA ; the title suggests spices that have mystical powers. The author uses allegory to highlight the qualities and emotions that one needs in dealing with various situations an immigrant needs in the new country. Each spice is associated with some emotional effect. Many innovative references to Indian spirituality make this book spicy and tasty ; yes, the author is to be complimented on striking a new style. Not quite Rushdie but yes, she does remind one of him.

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RELEASED !!!

Smells, sensations, voices, feelings from the distance... it was an attack on all senses really, and I loved it. Magical.

CAUGHT IN TEL AVIV ISRAEL