It is difficult to put in words the sheer engagement I experienced with this read. Amitava Ghosh is quite simply brilliant (such an overused word but in this case, apt). His research is meticulous and it is evident that much hard work has been expended in this. His ability to blend the his learnings into the stories is and its characters is marvellous. For those who have read the first 2 parts of the Ibis Trilogy (Sea of Poppies, River of Smoke), this book brings it all together. [If you have not read the previous 2 parts of the trilogy, you should do so before picking this one up] The year is 1939 and China has embargoed opium which has directly caused immense commercial loss to the British. It wouldn't be fair to give out any more to prevent any "loss of enjoyment" to the readers. The key characters here are Shireen, Zachary Reid and Kesri (Deeti's brother) and of course, several more who make this a compelling and enjoyable read. Sea of Poppies left me completely in awe and River of Smoke, in my book, made him the #1 IWE. Flood of Fire is on par with the other two. (I personally like the River of Smoke best of the lot) The canvas is vast, the story is detailed, the writing is superbly engaging. You can't go wrong with this one --Dylan Fan Jun 10, 2015
Author has the ability to create the reader's attention throughout the book and It is very book. I enjoyed reading this book which is on par with other books from the same author --Dr Somashekar Jul 1, 2015
Another enchanting and captivating novel from Amitava Ghosh. The IBIS trilogy has been one of the best books I have read. The amount of research and the way the story has been told is awesome. Infact while reading this novel I was transported to that era, the early 1800 India and south east Asia. Excellent. --Kaushik Chatterjee Jun 26, 2015