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A review by bookish_selkie
The Lotus Empire by Tasha Suri
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
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? It's complicated
5.0
The Lotus Empire is the majestic finale of the Burning Kingdoms trilogy. This series is so intricately complex and a must-read for fantasy fans. It has incredible LGBTQ+ rep, a rich magic system, and complicated politics. As this is the third book, every story thread from previous books is wrapped up beautifully.
Tasha Suri is such an imaginative writer; she creates worlds that feel deeply real. I love how she handled the relationship between Priya and Malini. From the very beginning, Priya and Malini have had a conflicting and nuanced connection. This is all brought to a crescendo in The Lotus Empire, when Priya and Malini must decide how far they are willing to go for power and love. The romance between Malini and Priya is both ethereal and scorchingly hot.
The yaksa and magic system are also creatively done; Suri’s prose is atmospheric and haunting. There is a creeping sense of dread as the rot slowly takes over more and more, while the priests wish to see Malini burn once and for all. It’s so good! I also enjoyed how we got to see the perspective of side characters who became entwined with the yaksa. Readers who seek fantasies about fiercely strong women, excellent LGBTQ+ rep, and epic magic systems will devour this series. I can’t wait to read what Tasha Suri writes next!
Thank you to Tasha Suri, Orbit Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tasha Suri is such an imaginative writer; she creates worlds that feel deeply real. I love how she handled the relationship between Priya and Malini. From the very beginning, Priya and Malini have had a conflicting and nuanced connection. This is all brought to a crescendo in The Lotus Empire, when Priya and Malini must decide how far they are willing to go for power and love. The romance between Malini and Priya is both ethereal and scorchingly hot.
The yaksa and magic system are also creatively done; Suri’s prose is atmospheric and haunting. There is a creeping sense of dread as the rot slowly takes over more and more, while the priests wish to see Malini burn once and for all. It’s so good! I also enjoyed how we got to see the perspective of side characters who became entwined with the yaksa. Readers who seek fantasies about fiercely strong women, excellent LGBTQ+ rep, and epic magic systems will devour this series. I can’t wait to read what Tasha Suri writes next!
Thank you to Tasha Suri, Orbit Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.