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3.75 AVERAGE
3.75 AVERAGE
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
challenging
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
Well, well, well… we meet again B2Weird; thank you for including me in this one.
Although this wasn’t my favorite book of the year (so far), I did enjoy it. I think I just may not have been the targeted audience, but believe me—THERE IS AN AUDIENCE FOR THIS BOOK! Rao’s writing is simply beautiful and poetic. You are immediately transported to stand next to Meneka. I felt like I was fully engulfed in her illusions. While I wasn’t (and still am not) too familiar with Hindu mythology, Rao tells the story in an enthralling way.
That said, there were moments when I didn’t particularly care for Meneka. She made some choices that I wouldn’t have made, but then, if she had, we wouldn’t have a story. For me, the story lacked the spice I was expecting, with the tagline “Seduction is her weapon. Love is her destiny.” That was a bit lacking for me.
What I did appreciate about Meneka was that, at all times, she was herself. I didn’t love her decisions, but they were hers to make. I appreciated that she questioned herself and where her loyalties lay. She questioned if she knew the whole story or if she was being told the whole truth. Kaushika was a nice little mystery, and I enjoyed his interactions with Meneka. I sometimes felt for them and hoped they would get a happy ending at the end of this duology.
The book begins with a glossary and two maps to help readers follow along. Use it! Some outside research may be required if you are unfamiliar with Hindu mythology (like me).
I enjoyed this book and see myself re-reading it closer to the release of this duology. I’m invested, and I need to know what happens next.
Although this wasn’t my favorite book of the year (so far), I did enjoy it. I think I just may not have been the targeted audience, but believe me—THERE IS AN AUDIENCE FOR THIS BOOK! Rao’s writing is simply beautiful and poetic. You are immediately transported to stand next to Meneka. I felt like I was fully engulfed in her illusions. While I wasn’t (and still am not) too familiar with Hindu mythology, Rao tells the story in an enthralling way.
That said, there were moments when I didn’t particularly care for Meneka. She made some choices that I wouldn’t have made, but then, if she had, we wouldn’t have a story. For me, the story lacked the spice I was expecting, with the tagline “Seduction is her weapon. Love is her destiny.” That was a bit lacking for me.
What I did appreciate about Meneka was that, at all times, she was herself. I didn’t love her decisions, but they were hers to make. I appreciated that she questioned herself and where her loyalties lay. She questioned if she knew the whole story or if she was being told the whole truth. Kaushika was a nice little mystery, and I enjoyed his interactions with Meneka. I sometimes felt for them and hoped they would get a happy ending at the end of this duology.
The book begins with a glossary and two maps to help readers follow along. Use it! Some outside research may be required if you are unfamiliar with Hindu mythology (like me).
I enjoyed this book and see myself re-reading it closer to the release of this duology. I’m invested, and I need to know what happens next.
adventurous
emotional
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
GOOOODDD SMUT also i was surprised by how much i liked Thai whole book
Thank you NetGalley and Avon/Harper Voyager for the ARC.
This was a beautiful retelling of a Hindu myth, which has left me curious to learn more about Hinduism mythology. I struggled with what rating to give the book because I really wanted to give it 4.5 stars but that isn’t an option but ultimately I decided on a 4 stat rating. What kept it from being 5 stars for me was a kind of rough and halting start. I understand the need for explanation of things for background for folks who don’t already know the myth and movements in the dances but I just felt it could have been done in a more flowing way so it didn’t feel more like a random footnote mid line. I can’t wait for the second book in the duology, I feel like it will be a solid 5 stars and I can’t wait to see how it ends since I am refusing to learn more about the original story so I can be surprised.
Watching Meneka grow into her own person is so realistic and heartbreaking when she learns new truths about herself and others. The way the author slowly revealed more and more details about each characters past really made you feel like you knew them since it was how any new relationship is created as more trust is found between people. I’d highly recommend this book for anyone who is is looking for a mythology based romantasy outside the norm.
This was a beautiful retelling of a Hindu myth, which has left me curious to learn more about Hinduism mythology. I struggled with what rating to give the book because I really wanted to give it 4.5 stars but that isn’t an option but ultimately I decided on a 4 stat rating. What kept it from being 5 stars for me was a kind of rough and halting start. I understand the need for explanation of things for background for folks who don’t already know the myth and movements in the dances but I just felt it could have been done in a more flowing way so it didn’t feel more like a random footnote mid line. I can’t wait for the second book in the duology, I feel like it will be a solid 5 stars and I can’t wait to see how it ends since I am refusing to learn more about the original story so I can be surprised.
Watching Meneka grow into her own person is so realistic and heartbreaking when she learns new truths about herself and others. The way the author slowly revealed more and more details about each characters past really made you feel like you knew them since it was how any new relationship is created as more trust is found between people. I’d highly recommend this book for anyone who is is looking for a mythology based romantasy outside the norm.
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
The Legend of Meneka has a fascinating premise rooted in Hindu mythology, which is exactly my kind of thing. Folklore fiction? Sign me up. And to the author’s credit, they do a solid job blending history and fantasy.
But oh boy, the pacing. It goes between crawling at a snails pace and Olympic sprinting. The characters are not really developed so I couldn’t connect with them. Even the romance is underdeveloped. Blink and you’ll miss it—one moment they meet, and the next, they’re ready to elope. Where was the build-up? The tension? The longing glances?
I didn’t hate it, but it wasn’t memorable for me. It definitely has a young adult feel—teenage me would’ve devoured this. If you love mythological fiction, you might still have a good time.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the arc.
But oh boy, the pacing. It goes between crawling at a snails pace and Olympic sprinting. The characters are not really developed so I couldn’t connect with them. Even the romance is underdeveloped. Blink and you’ll miss it—one moment they meet, and the next, they’re ready to elope. Where was the build-up? The tension? The longing glances?
I didn’t hate it, but it wasn’t memorable for me. It definitely has a young adult feel—teenage me would’ve devoured this. If you love mythological fiction, you might still have a good time.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the arc.
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Thank you HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction | HarperVoyager and NetGalley for the ARC!
It is so refreshing to read romantic fantasy books that don't centre around Western culture. Read more diverse books, folks!
There's so much romance and culture that is explored in this book by Kritika H. Rao. Honestly! I couldn't put the book down.
The world-building, the characters and their chemistry, and the writing style is phenomenal. I would definitely recommend this book.
It is so refreshing to read romantic fantasy books that don't centre around Western culture. Read more diverse books, folks!
There's so much romance and culture that is explored in this book by Kritika H. Rao. Honestly! I couldn't put the book down.
The world-building, the characters and their chemistry, and the writing style is phenomenal. I would definitely recommend this book.
adventurous
emotional
informative
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
When so many fantasy and romantasy novels are influenced by European myths and culture, it was very enjoyable to read one based on Hindu traditions. I finished it in just three days.
The pacing was even, though slow. But that's not unexpected for an enemies-to-lovers tale. It takes time for them to earn each others trust and affection. There were enough surprises and twists to keep things interesting.
The romantic passgages were never crass or too much, and I appreciated that their love was genuine, mutual, and respectful.
The ending was not as climactic as I was expecting, but it was a happy one. With this being the first book in a set of two, the major action may take place in the sequel.
The pacing was even, though slow. But that's not unexpected for an enemies-to-lovers tale. It takes time for them to earn each others trust and affection. There were enough surprises and twists to keep things interesting.
The romantic passgages were never crass or too much, and I appreciated that their love was genuine, mutual, and respectful.
The ending was not as climactic as I was expecting, but it was a happy one. With this being the first book in a set of two, the major action may take place in the sequel.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content, Violence, Blood, War, Injury/Injury detail
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Release Date: Jan. 21 2025
Vibes:
• Hindu Mythology Retelling
• Enemies to Lovers
• Immortals & Magic
• Sex is good! Romance is good! (aka, a sexuality positive story)
Once the story got going, I just couldn't stop myself from reading more. To the point of ignoring my book club pick for January...
Then reading this so soon after A Song to Drown Rivers was a choice on my part since they have a similar premise, but they were steeped in different cultures that allowed for these two stories to stand apart. In both stories, a woman (whether mortal or immortal) is used as a weapon to seduce a king's enemy, but that's pretty much the only similarity.
What I really loved with Meneka and Kaushika was that even if they were not honest about *everything*, they still somehow managed to be their most authentic selves and find their own truths. They teach each other some really important lessons that help them grow, even if they are also set on their own paths that they won't stray from.
I didn't have too many issues with this book, though I'm not really sure if the ending going into the sequel really appealed to me... It very much felt like a set up for a repeat of the first book. There was also quite a slow start and the first quarter or so of the book was kind of "meh". I also just can't really stand when a character is very much too young of an option (20s versus hundreds of year old) but is told they are the best ever. Like really? This apsara that you said has not mastered much of anything? She's the best?
I was definitely invested in the relationship between Meneka and Kaushika, and would love to see them in a world where there doesn't have to be lies and manipulations. On the immortal side, I am really interested to see where things go regarding Indra's rule. I am definitely not well versed enough in Hindu mythology to know how much this book follows mythological events or is more separated, but I feel like accuracy to mythology is less necessary than having a world of your own that works with the messages you have to share.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Voyager for providing an eARC of The Legend of Meneka. This book is a beautiful mythological romance that brings the spotlight on those in history that are often just a footnote: the women in the lives of heroes.
Release Date: Jan. 21 2025
Vibes:
• Hindu Mythology Retelling
• Enemies to Lovers
• Immortals & Magic
• Sex is good! Romance is good! (aka, a sexuality positive story)
Once the story got going, I just couldn't stop myself from reading more. To the point of ignoring my book club pick for January...
Then reading this so soon after A Song to Drown Rivers was a choice on my part since they have a similar premise, but they were steeped in different cultures that allowed for these two stories to stand apart. In both stories, a woman (whether mortal or immortal) is used as a weapon to seduce a king's enemy, but that's pretty much the only similarity.
What I really loved with Meneka and Kaushika was that even if they were not honest about *everything*, they still somehow managed to be their most authentic selves and find their own truths. They teach each other some really important lessons that help them grow, even if they are also set on their own paths that they won't stray from.
I didn't have too many issues with this book, though I'm not really sure if the ending going into the sequel really appealed to me... It very much felt like a set up for a repeat of the first book. There was also quite a slow start and the first quarter or so of the book was kind of "meh". I also just can't really stand when a character is very much too young of an option (20s versus hundreds of year old) but is told they are the best ever. Like really? This apsara that you said has not mastered much of anything? She's the best?
I was definitely invested in the relationship between Meneka and Kaushika, and would love to see them in a world where there doesn't have to be lies and manipulations. On the immortal side, I am really interested to see where things go regarding Indra's rule. I am definitely not well versed enough in Hindu mythology to know how much this book follows mythological events or is more separated, but I feel like accuracy to mythology is less necessary than having a world of your own that works with the messages you have to share.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Voyager for providing an eARC of The Legend of Meneka. This book is a beautiful mythological romance that brings the spotlight on those in history that are often just a footnote: the women in the lives of heroes.
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
reflective
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This is a stunning diverse romantasy that retells a story within Hindu mythology. Rao is an exceptional storyteller, and she brings the world of apsaras, sages, and divine machinations to life with breathtaking detail. This story is beautifully written and a fascinating exploration of duty, love, and self-discovery.
One of Rao’s greatest strengths is her ability to make complex topics—like Hindu philosophy—more accessible without diminishing their depth. The mythos and cultural elements woven throughout the story feel genuine and nuanced. Meneka is a compelling protagonist, torn between the life she’s always known and the freedom she desperately craves. Her dynamic with Kaushika is incredible, and their evolving relationship is layered with yearning, mutual respect, and emotional depth. The romance is beautifully developed, striking a balance between passion and introspection, making every moment between them feel earned. They often disagree and I love that he wants to empower instead of control her. SO different than most in the genre.
Beyond the romance, this shines in its intricate world-building and politics. The power struggles among the gods, the role of apsaras beyond their traditional portrayal, and Meneka’s inner turmoil add so many layers. Rao doesn’t just retell a myth—she breathes new life into it, offering a fresh perspective.
This is a must-read for fans of mythological retellings and romantasy. If you loved Daughter of the Moon Goddess, Kaikeyi, or Circe, you’ll absolutely adore this. I couldn’t put it down and am already eagerly awaiting the next book in the Divine Dancers duology.
Thanks so much to Storygram and the publisher for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
One of Rao’s greatest strengths is her ability to make complex topics—like Hindu philosophy—more accessible without diminishing their depth. The mythos and cultural elements woven throughout the story feel genuine and nuanced. Meneka is a compelling protagonist, torn between the life she’s always known and the freedom she desperately craves. Her dynamic with Kaushika is incredible, and their evolving relationship is layered with yearning, mutual respect, and emotional depth. The romance is beautifully developed, striking a balance between passion and introspection, making every moment between them feel earned. They often disagree and I love that he wants to empower instead of control her. SO different than most in the genre.
Beyond the romance, this shines in its intricate world-building and politics. The power struggles among the gods, the role of apsaras beyond their traditional portrayal, and Meneka’s inner turmoil add so many layers. Rao doesn’t just retell a myth—she breathes new life into it, offering a fresh perspective.
This is a must-read for fans of mythological retellings and romantasy. If you loved Daughter of the Moon Goddess, Kaikeyi, or Circe, you’ll absolutely adore this. I couldn’t put it down and am already eagerly awaiting the next book in the Divine Dancers duology.
Thanks so much to Storygram and the publisher for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.