Parvati Sharma's book on Akbar is good - well researched - and easy to read. The book is a chronology of the events of his life. While reading the book, you see what made him a great king - imperfect but great.
You also get a glimpse into the influence his mother had on him and the power of the women in the Mughal Empire.
I believe she could have done more to explain the administrative changes he made to his kingdom's administration and analyse his impact on society. In addition, you do not get a deep understanding of how he established his power and built a powerful empire.
Barring this lacuna, this is an excellent book. ( )