Studying in schools and hearing stories about 1857 war, beyond certain points we were never exposed to this information.
Title itself increases the curiosity. Book starts with all necessary information required to understand how this war was planned. The mystery of "Red Lotuses" and "Chapatis". How alliances were made and how it panned for 2 years. The sacrifice made by common people is unthinkable today. Courage shown by many chiefs is laudable. Events at Jhansi and Gwalior are not much discussed.
Also how as the newly independent nation, India missed great opportunity to implement many good things of declarations made in 1857!
Author and his team has done extensive research on this. Hardwork put in to get these details is praiseworthy. Flow of the narration is engaging. Additional of maps provide important PoV. Must read.