An imaginative and accessible retelling of the Mahabharata , one of India’s classic epic poems, She Burned Brightly brings to life the extraordinary story of Drupdi—a woman born from fire and destined to reshape the fate of kingdoms. More than just a retelling, this novel serves as a compelling gateway for readers curious about mythology and Indian culture, offering a vivid entry point into one of the world’s richest traditions. Drupdi is no ordinary princess. Miraculously born from the flames of a sacred fire, she carries a fiery spirit that defies the rigid expectations of her world. Married to five warrior brothers—the Pandavas—she becomes entwined in their bitter feud with their treacherous cousins, a conflict that will ignite one of the greatest wars of all time. But Drupdi is more than a pawn in a game of power. She is a woman of unyielding strength and relentless passion, a force of nature who refuses to be silenced. When she is humiliated in a royal court by men who wield power without honor, it sparks a war that will tear empires apart and shape the destiny of gods and mortals alike. As the flames of conflict rise, Drupdi must learn to transform her inner fire into a guiding light—not just for herself but for a world on the brink of chaos. Her journey of resilience, love, and self-discovery will pave the way for the creation of the sacred Bhagavad Gita , a text that will guide humanity for generations to come. With lush prose, emotional depth, and an unforgettable heroine, She Burned Brightly reclaims the voice of a legendary woman who has captivated hearts for centuries. For Western readers who love a compelling heroine’s journey, this novel offers both an immersive story and a welcoming introduction to the epic sweep of Indian mythology. Fans of Madeline Miller’s Circe and Jennifer Saint’s Ariadne will find themselves spellbound by this powerful reimagining of one of history’s greatest epics.