A novel about the Taj Mahal by an American writer is being made into a Hollywood film.

John Shors, author of the critically acclaimed "Beneath a Marble Sky: A Novel of the Taj Mahal, announced that the film rights to his novel were acquired by Humble Journey Films of Hollywood, California.

Shors and McPherson and Company, the publishing house that produced his novel, brokered the deal.

Eriq LaSalle, a former star of the hit television series "ER", heads Humble Journey Films.

After closing the deal, LaSalle flew to India to meet with Bollywood executives, and to visit the Taj Mahal.

"The book is one of those rare ones that creates such a lush and passionate world that it inspires you to want to know more," LaSalle was quoted as saying.

"This heartbreaking, yet ultimately redeeming story of honour, duty and most importantly love, is one that I will never forget."