Scan barcode
piperkitty's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
inspiring
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
I love how the author provides a glossary of terms and character names at the beginning of the book. This makes it easier to understand the story and the characters.
Even though the book is categorized as young adult fiction, it tackles some serious and important topics. It offers a powerful commentary on the social stigma surrounding sexual violence and gender roles in South Asian communities. Additionally, it explores themes of sisterhood, resilience, and revenge.
I like how we also get the backstory of Pratyush and Manisha, which progress from childhood to where they are now. When a temple visitor sexually assaults Manisha and pushes her off the mountain into a pit of vipers. A month later, the king sends Pratyush to defeat one last monster before he considers granting his freedom.
Manisha survives the numerous snake bites she receives and the venom that courses through her veins. Upon emerging from the pit, she finds herself more powerful than ever, with enhanced senses, skin as tough as armour, and blood that can petrify people. Pratyush is not aware that the "monster" he has been tasked with killing is the same girl he wishes to marry.
The age it is aimed at is definitely a dark story and something I recommend parents read first because of the trigger in the book.
TW; SA, violence, gore, and misogyny.
Even though the book is categorized as young adult fiction, it tackles some serious and important topics. It offers a powerful commentary on the social stigma surrounding sexual violence and gender roles in South Asian communities. Additionally, it explores themes of sisterhood, resilience, and revenge.
I like how we also get the backstory of Pratyush and Manisha, which progress from childhood to where they are now. When a temple visitor sexually assaults Manisha and pushes her off the mountain into a pit of vipers. A month later, the king sends Pratyush to defeat one last monster before he considers granting his freedom.
Manisha survives the numerous snake bites she receives and the venom that courses through her veins. Upon emerging from the pit, she finds herself more powerful than ever, with enhanced senses, skin as tough as armour, and blood that can petrify people. Pratyush is not aware that the "monster" he has been tasked with killing is the same girl he wishes to marry.
The age it is aimed at is definitely a dark story and something I recommend parents read first because of the trigger in the book.
TW; SA, violence, gore, and misogyny.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual assault, War, Gore, Addiction, and Misogyny
More...