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jasminegalsreadinglog 's review for:
The Legend of Meneka
by Kritika H. Rao
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
The Legend of Meneka by Kritika H. Rao is a compelling retelling of a Hindu mythological story. While it diverges from the original tale in several ways, the author skillfully captures its essence. Readers looking for mythological retellings beyond the usual Greek stories should definitely explore this novel.
The lore of Meneka and Kaushika (later known as Vishwamitra) is widely known. Meneka, a celestial Apsara, is renowned for her role as a seductress. Kaushika, a sage with the mind of a warrior, seeks justice and aims to challenge the Gods for their powers. Exhausted by her role, Meneka desires freedom. Indra, leader of the Gods, offers her one final mission, seduce Kaushika, and promises she will be free from further assignments. But as Meneka returns to Earth, she finds herself transformed by the very task she hoped would end her servitude.
The author's inventive spin on this tale captures its complexities with a refreshing twist that breathes new life into familiar lore. The core essence of the story remains intact, which I deeply appreciated. It is spicy, erotic and filled with angst. However, the narrative could benefit from tighter editing; repetitive sentences, phrases, and musings occasionally disrupt the flow. Despite this minor critique, I’m excited to see where the author takes the story in the sequel.
Thank you to Harper Voyager for providing this book.
The lore of Meneka and Kaushika (later known as Vishwamitra) is widely known. Meneka, a celestial Apsara, is renowned for her role as a seductress. Kaushika, a sage with the mind of a warrior, seeks justice and aims to challenge the Gods for their powers. Exhausted by her role, Meneka desires freedom. Indra, leader of the Gods, offers her one final mission, seduce Kaushika, and promises she will be free from further assignments. But as Meneka returns to Earth, she finds herself transformed by the very task she hoped would end her servitude.
The author's inventive spin on this tale captures its complexities with a refreshing twist that breathes new life into familiar lore. The core essence of the story remains intact, which I deeply appreciated. It is spicy, erotic and filled with angst. However, the narrative could benefit from tighter editing; repetitive sentences, phrases, and musings occasionally disrupt the flow. Despite this minor critique, I’m excited to see where the author takes the story in the sequel.
Thank you to Harper Voyager for providing this book.