Bitter Herbs

Amara Malik's life underwent a dramatic transformation from her successful career as a food scientist and accomplished sous chef at renowned establishments such as Claridge's and the Prime Minister's office. She made the pivotal choice to become a devoted housewife, channeling her energy into creating the ideal home for her husband.

Yet, concealed beneath the façade of domestic harmony, Amara's world shatters when she uncovers her husband's infidelity. Her attempts to address the issue result in scorn and humiliation, exposing her emotional and financial dependence on him. Trapped in a toxic marriage with no apparent means of escape, she reluctantly accepts a life that gradually erodes her spirit.

In the midst of her despair, fate guides Amara to a weathered diary concealed within her family's ancestral residence, a relic once belonging to her late grandmother. Within the diary lie enigmatic recipes and arcane herbal knowledge, some dedicated to healing, while others conceal darker intentions. Fueled by resentment, Amara delves into the forbidden wisdom, nurturing the enigmatic herbs, spices, and seeds bequeathed by her grandmother.

As her garden flourishes, so does her determination for vengeance. Amara discovers the power of "kulam" and "barang," or in simple terms, witchcraft, ancient practices that can harm or heal, and she begins concocting recipes that will serve her husband a taste of his own medicine.