Each chapter in THE MISTRESS OF SPICES is named for a different
spice, and as you read the novel, you come to understand the deep
connection between the chapter headings and their subjects. For
spices have magical powers, but they must be used correctly and
carefully in order for them to work.

Born ugly and unwanted in a small village in India, Nayan Tara
(later renamed Tilottama or Tilo) is discarded by her family for
the sin of being born female. She throws herself on the mercy of
the mythical ocean serpents, who deliver her to the Island of
Spices. There she is initiated into the sisterhood of Spice
Mistresses who are sent out into the world to help
others.  

When she becomes a full-fledged Spice Mistress, she is transformed
into a gnarled, arthritic old woman, and sent to Oakland,
California where she runs a tiny store called the Spice Bazaar. As
long as she follows the canons of her mentors on the island, and
uses the spices only to help her customers (and never for her own
enrichment), her powers work their magic.

However, she begins to rebel, and becomes involved in the lives of
her clients. She falls in love with a young man who comes into her
shop, and is eventually forced to choose between a supernatural,
immortal life and the vicissitudes of an existence in modern
times.

THE MISTRESS OF SPICES is a simply splendid novel. It is a
beautifully crafted story of dreams, desires, hopes, and
expectations. You will never look at jars of cinnamon, turmeric, or
fennel again without wondering if they possess powers far beyond
seasoning food.