kcash20 's review for:

The Legend of Meneka by Kritika H. Rao

5.0

challenging emotional medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

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I had a little trouble at the beginning of this book simply because Meneka was so blindly devout. I hope people don't go into this novel and let that character flaw turn them away from reading on. She goes through such an amazing transformation of self-discovery throughout the story, and it was brilliant to read and made me so happy that I pushed through those initial reactions.
 Something that the author does extremely well is dangle the carrot of romance in front of the reader. I was giggling and kicking my feet for every minor flirtation between Meneka and Kaushika. The slow burn is absolutely sumptuous, and was only heightened by the ways the two characters constantly challenge each other and their beliefs.
 The cast of supporting characters is varied and wonderful, and the relationships they build add so much heart to the story.
 While this felt more focused on Meneka learning about herself, it's clear the story has only just begun.
 The end left me craving so much more. Waiting for the next book is going to be extremely difficult.
 

Thank you to Avon, Harper Voyager, and Netgalley for the ARC.