An epic historical heist novel of plundered treasure, savage empire, lasting love and a young man’s dream to make his mark on the world. From an Indian American writer at the height of her powers.
‘Loot held me spellbound from the first page…an expertly-plotted, deeply affecting novel ‘ Maggie O’Farrell
Young toy maker and dreamer Abbas is whisked away to Tipu Sultan’s glorious palace in Mysore and ordered to create a musical tiger to delight Tipu’s sons.
When he is apprenticed to eccentric clockmaker Monsieur Du Leze, Abbas finds an unexpected friend who encourages his skill and hunger for learning. Through Du Leze, he also meets the unforgettable Jehanne, who has questions and ambitions of her own.
But when British soldiers attack and loot Mysore, Abbas’s world is turned upside down and his prized tiger is shipped off to a country estate in England. In order to carve out his place in the world, he must follow.
A hero’s quest, a love story, an exuberant heist novel that traces the bloody legacy of colonialism across the world, Loot is a dazzling, wildly inventive and irresistible feat of storytelling.
‘A thrilling, absorbing and immersive tale of artistry, adventure and romance’ Claire Fuller
‘A cinematic novel of empire, colonialism and romance…Loot asks who gets written out of history and why’ Guardian
‘Immersive and beautifully written…a clever and absorbing novel about empire and belonging’ Sunday Times
Format: Paperback
Pages: 304
Imprint: Vintage UK
Publication date: 06/05/2025
Loot
by Tania James
Review by Ray
An epic historical saga spanning continents and decades, following the story of a young, talented toymaker from Mysore, India. This book captured me immediately, with fresh and sometimes very funny prose, and fierce, surprising characters. Richly detailed and action-packed, this novel feels both deeply personal and hugely expansive all at once. It’s an impressive and totally engaging book and I loved every second.
