The first volume of Udaiyar by Balakumaran is a novel centred around Rajaraja Chola. It shows his mother's perseverance to ensure her son gets the throne rightfully and it explores the family dynamics in this part of the series. The novel then delves into how Rajaraja Chola plans to build a big Lord Shiva temple in Thanjavur. The author brilliantly weaves the daily life of those within the kingdom and those outside of it during that era making the reader get immersed into it. The minute details are expertly explained which add value to the story. Order from Giri UK.