{"product_id":"2026100006281-secondhand-the-queen-bee","title":"The Queen Bee","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition remarks:\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cbr\u003eCondition: Good. Jacket: Worn\/faded, no tears — some edge wear and minor scuffing visible on the dust jacket. Page Condition: Good. Markings: No visible markings. Binding condition: Appears intact. Stickers\/Labels: None visible. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSet against the vivid, tumultuous backdrop of the Indian subcontinent, The Queen Bee by Phyllida Barstow is a richly atmospheric work of historical fiction that chronicles the ambitions and intrigues of a formidable woman navigating a world defined by power, tradition, and social hierarchy. Barstow masterfully illustrates the tensions between colonial culture and ancient Eastern society, drawing readers into bustling bazaars and ornate palaces where every alliance carries consequence. The narrative unfolds with a sweeping, dramatic tone, presenting its central character as a calculating and magnetic force whose influence shapes the lives of all those around her. Layered with vivid period detail and complex characterisation, the novel argues that true power is rarely wielded openly, but through carefully orchestrated relationships and quiet dominance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Secondhand Stock","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48893797794011,"sku":"2026100006281-SECONDHAND","price":20.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0523\/7646\/9701\/files\/4066bced-f287-49f6-8c63-a78375eef41d.png?v=1782039847","url":"https:\/\/bookgrocer.com\/products\/2026100006281-secondhand-the-queen-bee","provider":"Book Grocer","version":"1.0","type":"link"}