Majapahit: Intrigue and Legacy in Indonesia’s Greatest Empire

Herald van der Linde’s Majapahit: Intrigue, Betrayal and War in Indonesia’s Greatest Empire offers a gripping retelling of the rise and fall of Indonesia’s Greatest Empire. From its mythic beginnings with brutal anti-hero Ken Arok to its peak under Queen Tribhuwana and King Hayam Wuruk, the book follows a tale filled with power struggles, unlikely alliances, and unforgettable figures like Gajah Mada. Van der Linde brings history to life with vivid narrative and daring speculation, tracing Majapahit’s reach from Java to much of Southeast Asia.

While some historical claims lean on conjecture, the storytelling is vivid and engaging. Majapahit’s complex political structure, influence on Balinese culture, and the key role of women in leadership paint a nuanced picture of a Southeast Asian superpower. Majapahit invites readers to explore a long-overlooked chapter of world history—one that still resonates in Indonesia’s cultural memory today.