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Burn the Sea
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12 days and 20:43:53
100 copies available
U.S. only
To protect her homeland, one queen must fight her people’s historic enemy―once and for all.
Abbakka Chowta never expected to be queen. The youngest of Ullal’s two rajkumaris, Abbakka has spent years in rigorous combat training to become her sister’s blade. But when the monstrous Porcugi attempt to lay claim to Ullal, Abbakka’s world―and fate―are upended.
The Porcugi―giant half-men, half-snakes who attack from the sea―haven’t been seen in Ullal since their failed invasion more than fifty years ago. But now, they’re back with vengeance and a choice: pay their tithes or suffer total devastation. Soon, Abbakka’s definitions of strength, subterfuge, and statecraft are put to the test. Will marriage to a neighboring king give her the resources she needs to protect her people . . . or will she watch her homeland be crushed beneath the waves of would-be colonizers?
A lush historical fantasy that reimagines the Portuguese attacks on South India in the 1500s and the fierce real-life queen’s story, Burn the Sea is an electrifying exaltation of female power and the value of freedom.
Abbakka Chowta never expected to be queen. The youngest of Ullal’s two rajkumaris, Abbakka has spent years in rigorous combat training to become her sister’s blade. But when the monstrous Porcugi attempt to lay claim to Ullal, Abbakka’s world―and fate―are upended.
The Porcugi―giant half-men, half-snakes who attack from the sea―haven’t been seen in Ullal since their failed invasion more than fifty years ago. But now, they’re back with vengeance and a choice: pay their tithes or suffer total devastation. Soon, Abbakka’s definitions of strength, subterfuge, and statecraft are put to the test. Will marriage to a neighboring king give her the resources she needs to protect her people . . . or will she watch her homeland be crushed beneath the waves of would-be colonizers?
A lush historical fantasy that reimagines the Portuguese attacks on South India in the 1500s and the fierce real-life queen’s story, Burn the Sea is an electrifying exaltation of female power and the value of freedom.
450 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 21, 2026
2446 people want to read
About the author
Mona Tewari
1 book28 followersMona Tewari has long been fascinated by the ways in which narratives of legends and histories shape our views of the present. A graduate of Caltech and UCSF, Tewari practiced as a pediatric dentist for years before turning to writing fiction. As the daughter of two immigrants from India, she didn’t see herself represented in popular media while growing up and became determined to show her daughters they belong in every world. Tewari lives with her husband, daughters, and dogs in New England.
Burn the Sea is her first novel.
Burn the Sea is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 21, 2025
I've secured an arc, and I can't wait to scream about this book.
“If you wanted me to be a bauble, you never should have given me a blade.”
Have you ever come across a book that feels like it was meant to find you? As if the universe conspired to place it in your hands at the exact moment you needed it? That’s how Burn the Sea felt for me.
We’re living in a powerful literary moment where authors are reclaiming the legacies of forgotten queens and warriors. Women who defied empire, patriarchy, and erasure. Burn the Sea stands tall among them. In this evocative reimagining, Tewari breathes fiery new life into Rani Abbakka Chowta, the legendary queen who resisted Portuguese colonizers. But in Tewari’s world, the threat is mythic: the Porcugi, half-snake, half-human invaders descend on Ullal, lusting after its riches and sovereignty.
At the heart of the novel is Abbakka: a young woman grieving, ascending, and resisting not just foreign invaders, but the crushing weight of duty, the cost of power, and the treachery within her own walls, and heart. She is both blade and balm, burdened and simply brilliant. Her journey isn’t just a fantasy epic, the novel showcases the importance of resistance, resilience, and reckoning.
What sets this book apart is Tewari’s fearless commentary on complicity, a theme rarely touched in fantasy. While Abbakka fights tooth and nail against the Porcugi, others are quick to sell her out for profit, glory, or self-preservation. These moments were well planned and the emotional punches hit.
I’m endlessly grateful to Bindery Books for championing authors like Mona Tewari for uplifting stories that are unapologetically fierce and culturally rich. As I close this review, I leave you with a line that will be ringing in your head for a while “Come back to me.”
“If you wanted me to be a bauble, you never should have given me a blade.”
Have you ever come across a book that feels like it was meant to find you? As if the universe conspired to place it in your hands at the exact moment you needed it? That’s how Burn the Sea felt for me.
We’re living in a powerful literary moment where authors are reclaiming the legacies of forgotten queens and warriors. Women who defied empire, patriarchy, and erasure. Burn the Sea stands tall among them. In this evocative reimagining, Tewari breathes fiery new life into Rani Abbakka Chowta, the legendary queen who resisted Portuguese colonizers. But in Tewari’s world, the threat is mythic: the Porcugi, half-snake, half-human invaders descend on Ullal, lusting after its riches and sovereignty.
At the heart of the novel is Abbakka: a young woman grieving, ascending, and resisting not just foreign invaders, but the crushing weight of duty, the cost of power, and the treachery within her own walls, and heart. She is both blade and balm, burdened and simply brilliant. Her journey isn’t just a fantasy epic, the novel showcases the importance of resistance, resilience, and reckoning.
What sets this book apart is Tewari’s fearless commentary on complicity, a theme rarely touched in fantasy. While Abbakka fights tooth and nail against the Porcugi, others are quick to sell her out for profit, glory, or self-preservation. These moments were well planned and the emotional punches hit.
I’m endlessly grateful to Bindery Books for championing authors like Mona Tewari for uplifting stories that are unapologetically fierce and culturally rich. As I close this review, I leave you with a line that will be ringing in your head for a while “Come back to me.”
September 3, 2025
unwell thanks
- immediate thoughts from 9/1/25
--
Ohhhhh I love this. I love this I love this I love this. Burn the Sea checks all the boxes for me: a determined young heroine; themes of anti-colonialism, the cost of war, and grief; and a smattering of friendships, romances, relationships, and politicking that work so well with the main plot.
The novel is a fantastical retelling of Portuguese attacks on South India in the 1500s, where the Portuguese are depicted as monstrous, snake-like beings from the sea (Porcugi) who would rather make demands than fair trades. Who’d rather stoke the flames of war than negotiate peace. Abbakka Chowta, a real life queen of Ullal, is portrayed as a younger sister who never intended to rule. When an attack from the Porcugi changes everything, Abbakka is forced into political positions she never imagined, including a strategic marriage with a neighboring king. But will it be enough to save her people?
Like I said, I loved basically everything about this. Abbakka is everything I love in a protagonist. She’s bold and brave and strategic and unyielding. Fiercely protective. Unendingly proud of her people. Full of grief but unable to process it in the face of everything she’s dealing with. I so enjoyed getting to know her and I immediately looked up the real life Abbakka to learn more about who she was.
While Abbakka was for sure my favorite character, the other supporting characters in this are no less lovable. I really enjoyed the multiple dynamics in here, in particular Abbakka’s friendship with her friends from childhood, Thevan and Parushi, as well as her friendship with a monk who appears later in the book. And although a good 30% or so of this book is revealed in its synopsis, I still found myself emotional as events played out, and there were some moments that really Got To Me. You know what’s coming based on the blurb, yet the way Mona Tewari writes ensures you don’t lose any of that emotional weight. The characters, the prose, the plot... everything is just so good. Truly.
I was so engrossed in this story that I finished it in a day, which I haven’t done in several months, if not years. Every chapter just made me want to read more, and I’m so very excited for its release in April 2026.
Thank you to CJ Alberts, Bindery, Boundless Press, and NetGalley for inviting me to read the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
- immediate thoughts from 9/1/25
--
Ohhhhh I love this. I love this I love this I love this. Burn the Sea checks all the boxes for me: a determined young heroine; themes of anti-colonialism, the cost of war, and grief; and a smattering of friendships, romances, relationships, and politicking that work so well with the main plot.
The novel is a fantastical retelling of Portuguese attacks on South India in the 1500s, where the Portuguese are depicted as monstrous, snake-like beings from the sea (Porcugi) who would rather make demands than fair trades. Who’d rather stoke the flames of war than negotiate peace. Abbakka Chowta, a real life queen of Ullal, is portrayed as a younger sister who never intended to rule. When an attack from the Porcugi changes everything, Abbakka is forced into political positions she never imagined, including a strategic marriage with a neighboring king. But will it be enough to save her people?
Like I said, I loved basically everything about this. Abbakka is everything I love in a protagonist. She’s bold and brave and strategic and unyielding. Fiercely protective. Unendingly proud of her people. Full of grief but unable to process it in the face of everything she’s dealing with. I so enjoyed getting to know her and I immediately looked up the real life Abbakka to learn more about who she was.
While Abbakka was for sure my favorite character, the other supporting characters in this are no less lovable. I really enjoyed the multiple dynamics in here, in particular Abbakka’s friendship with her friends from childhood, Thevan and Parushi, as well as her friendship with a monk who appears later in the book. And although a good 30% or so of this book is revealed in its synopsis, I still found myself emotional as events played out, and there were some moments that really Got To Me. You know what’s coming based on the blurb, yet the way Mona Tewari writes ensures you don’t lose any of that emotional weight. The characters, the prose, the plot... everything is just so good. Truly.
I was so engrossed in this story that I finished it in a day, which I haven’t done in several months, if not years. Every chapter just made me want to read more, and I’m so very excited for its release in April 2026.
Thank you to CJ Alberts, Bindery, Boundless Press, and NetGalley for inviting me to read the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 22, 2025
If your man doesn’t bring you a shit ton of turmeric as a cute reference to your meet cute, is he even your man?
With a plot as fierce as its heroine, BURN THE SEA is a gripping tale of resistance in the face of subjugation. Abbaka defies those who would see her submit both as a wife and as a rani, despite blindsiding betrayals and crushing losses. Tewari's homage to the warrior queen of Ullal does her full justice.
With a plot as fierce as its heroine, BURN THE SEA is a gripping tale of resistance in the face of subjugation. Abbaka defies those who would see her submit both as a wife and as a rani, despite blindsiding betrayals and crushing losses. Tewari's homage to the warrior queen of Ullal does her full justice.
Want to read
July 19, 2025This cover is QUEEENLY
September 13, 2025
Read for work, I hate the scary snake people!!!!!!
October 22, 2025
I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"Time is a cruel mistress."
I love this story so much, I can't believe it ended.
Burn the Sea is about Abbakka, a woman who will do whatever it takes to protect her kingdom from the Porcugi, the monsters that attack their shores. It's a reimagining of the arrival of the Portuguese on South India in the 1500s, told through the perspective of a queen who led her nation in a war against the would-be colonizers.
This book made me feel so many emotions. It's so culturally and spiritually anchored that I couldn't bring myself to let go even after I read the final page. The worldbuilding was cleverly woven into the plot. This book had so much identity. I appreciated the cultures and beliefs mentioned. It's so rich in detail.
Although it had its slow moments and unresolved subplots, I appreciated the length of each chapter. It was easy to flip through the pages and keep going. I think my biggest issue was how the romance was handled. There were problems in the relationships that went unacknowledged, which was frustrating, to say the least.
The politics also relied on slippery slope reasonings and didn't offer much nuance, making it hard for me to believe in the realism of the diplomacies and wars. But then again, this was told from the perspective of a deeply troubled, very biased main character, so I'll give it the benefit of the doubt.
In addition, the author's note mentioned that the colonizers were "othered" in a way that European historical records alienated non-European territories to justify occupation, so I think this was a deliberate choice.
Overall, I am so looking forward to the next book, if there's a possibility for it. I would love to know what happened to the characters I grew to love. And I would love to see Abbakka rise from this war in triumph.
"Time is a cruel mistress."
I love this story so much, I can't believe it ended.
Burn the Sea is about Abbakka, a woman who will do whatever it takes to protect her kingdom from the Porcugi, the monsters that attack their shores. It's a reimagining of the arrival of the Portuguese on South India in the 1500s, told through the perspective of a queen who led her nation in a war against the would-be colonizers.
This book made me feel so many emotions. It's so culturally and spiritually anchored that I couldn't bring myself to let go even after I read the final page. The worldbuilding was cleverly woven into the plot. This book had so much identity. I appreciated the cultures and beliefs mentioned. It's so rich in detail.
Although it had its slow moments and unresolved subplots, I appreciated the length of each chapter. It was easy to flip through the pages and keep going. I think my biggest issue was how the romance was handled. There were problems in the relationships that went unacknowledged, which was frustrating, to say the least.
The politics also relied on slippery slope reasonings and didn't offer much nuance, making it hard for me to believe in the realism of the diplomacies and wars. But then again, this was told from the perspective of a deeply troubled, very biased main character, so I'll give it the benefit of the doubt.
In addition, the author's note mentioned that the colonizers were "othered" in a way that European historical records alienated non-European territories to justify occupation, so I think this was a deliberate choice.
Overall, I am so looking forward to the next book, if there's a possibility for it. I would love to know what happened to the characters I grew to love. And I would love to see Abbakka rise from this war in triumph.
Want to read
August 28, 2025Thank you to CJ Albert’s and the author for sending me this arc!
September 3, 2025
“If you wanted me to be a bauble you should have never given me a blade”
Rajkumari Abbakka is headstrong, loyal, and trying her best to cope with the shitstorm she finds herself in. Thrust onto the thrown by circumstances beyond her control, she grasps at pieces of lessons from her tutors, family, and the spirits themselves to protect her people from enemies that have been plotting her demise long before she knew they were not 50 year old rumours. She is far from a bauble and is deadly with a blade.
“Burn The Sea” is an epic story steeped in tradition, fantasy, and political intrigue. From the prologue to the final sentence which sets the tone for an enticing sequel, this book transported and grounded me to the shores of Ullal. I could smell the incense and turmeric in the air, feel the flower garlands settle around my neck, and hear the battle cries of the soldiers who fought against the fearsome Porcugi.
Against the backdrop of tremendous loss, our main character, Abbakka is asking how can she best serve her people. Trying her best not to fold to the pressures of politics, she’s trapped between negotiating with murderous monsters or taking up arms and risking the lives of her subjects. In the midst of all of this, our Rajkumari is caught between two men, a Raja who hides behind his advisors and a General who hides behind his duty.
To me, this book was perfectly paced and well written. The themes explored, particularly in the context being immersed in an Indian fantasy-scape, were also incredibly important. The fearsome Purcugi who demand tithes in spices and attack without question are akin to a historical allegory reflecting the British who came to Hindustan and ripped the spices from the land in “exchange” for modernity, and does so without ever feeling pedantic. The author’s clever storytelling intricately folds the narrative of colonisation into a fantasy landscape in a way that is thoughtful and refreshing.
I am anxiously waiting for the continuation of this epic story and look forward to seeing just how far Abbakka is willing to go Burn the Sea. I am grateful to the publishers Bindery Books for sharing this advanced copy with me via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rajkumari Abbakka is headstrong, loyal, and trying her best to cope with the shitstorm she finds herself in. Thrust onto the thrown by circumstances beyond her control, she grasps at pieces of lessons from her tutors, family, and the spirits themselves to protect her people from enemies that have been plotting her demise long before she knew they were not 50 year old rumours. She is far from a bauble and is deadly with a blade.
“Burn The Sea” is an epic story steeped in tradition, fantasy, and political intrigue. From the prologue to the final sentence which sets the tone for an enticing sequel, this book transported and grounded me to the shores of Ullal. I could smell the incense and turmeric in the air, feel the flower garlands settle around my neck, and hear the battle cries of the soldiers who fought against the fearsome Porcugi.
Against the backdrop of tremendous loss, our main character, Abbakka is asking how can she best serve her people. Trying her best not to fold to the pressures of politics, she’s trapped between negotiating with murderous monsters or taking up arms and risking the lives of her subjects. In the midst of all of this, our Rajkumari is caught between two men, a Raja who hides behind his advisors and a General who hides behind his duty.
To me, this book was perfectly paced and well written. The themes explored, particularly in the context being immersed in an Indian fantasy-scape, were also incredibly important. The fearsome Purcugi who demand tithes in spices and attack without question are akin to a historical allegory reflecting the British who came to Hindustan and ripped the spices from the land in “exchange” for modernity, and does so without ever feeling pedantic. The author’s clever storytelling intricately folds the narrative of colonisation into a fantasy landscape in a way that is thoughtful and refreshing.
I am anxiously waiting for the continuation of this epic story and look forward to seeing just how far Abbakka is willing to go Burn the Sea. I am grateful to the publishers Bindery Books for sharing this advanced copy with me via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2025
Thank you to the publishers for a free ebook arc received through Netgalley.
Burn the Sea is a new Indian-inspired fantasy, that takes a historical figure and reimagines her story and struggle against colonizers in a fantasy world and I AM HERE FOR IT!
Abhekka never expected to become the rank of her country, but when tragedy arrives on shore in the shape of the porcugi would-be-colonizers, she must step into this role, even if it means marrying a foreign Raju, to save her people from oppression.
Only her marriage is not what it seemed, and the political opponents are everywhere, and soon Abekka must learn who to trust, to figure out how to fight opression.
I enjoyed this story thoroughly, and was easily swept away into the world and politics, and would definitely recommend it to other readers.
I do, however, still have some criticism. My main critique is, that I didn’t find the big emotional scenes to fill enough, which I think also correlates to the fact, that I believe the story starts a scene or two too soon. In the overall experience, it doesn’t matter much for enjoyment, but I would have liked to see the emotions of the characters get more screentime.
Another minor critique from me (which may be completely down to personal taste), is that the characters speaks with modern slang from time to time, replying with saying such as ‘same’ or ‘fair’ to statements.
Nevertheless, this books was a lot of fun, it showed me a new perspective on colonialism, and was overall just a great time. I particularly like the scene just before the birth (iykyk), where all the women come together and give their advice. That was beautiful.
Overall, 4/5 stars and a warm recommendation.
Burn the Sea is a new Indian-inspired fantasy, that takes a historical figure and reimagines her story and struggle against colonizers in a fantasy world and I AM HERE FOR IT!
Abhekka never expected to become the rank of her country, but when tragedy arrives on shore in the shape of the porcugi would-be-colonizers, she must step into this role, even if it means marrying a foreign Raju, to save her people from oppression.
Only her marriage is not what it seemed, and the political opponents are everywhere, and soon Abekka must learn who to trust, to figure out how to fight opression.
I enjoyed this story thoroughly, and was easily swept away into the world and politics, and would definitely recommend it to other readers.
I do, however, still have some criticism. My main critique is, that I didn’t find the big emotional scenes to fill enough, which I think also correlates to the fact, that I believe the story starts a scene or two too soon. In the overall experience, it doesn’t matter much for enjoyment, but I would have liked to see the emotions of the characters get more screentime.
Another minor critique from me (which may be completely down to personal taste), is that the characters speaks with modern slang from time to time, replying with saying such as ‘same’ or ‘fair’ to statements.
Nevertheless, this books was a lot of fun, it showed me a new perspective on colonialism, and was overall just a great time. I particularly like the scene just before the birth (iykyk), where all the women come together and give their advice. That was beautiful.
Overall, 4/5 stars and a warm recommendation.
October 5, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
September 27, 2025
◛⑅·˚ ༘ ♡ burn the sea.
ੈ♡˳ final rating: 4.5/5
i received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating, and all opinions expressed below are my own.
the way i flew through this book was insaaaane i don’t think i’ve read a book this fast in a while! i absolutely loved abbakka, the main character. her devotion to her country, her bravery, her determination to be the best leader she can be—she is such a beautiful character who has brought justice to her real-life self. going into this book, i had no idea about the inspiration behind this book—portugal’s attacks against south india—which was very interesting to see a glimpse of in such a unique way. there better be another book coming soon because i don’t think i can handle waiting so long to find out what happens next 😭🤍 thank you for blessing us with this amazing story!!
thank you to netgalley and bindery books for this arc!
ੈ♡˳ final rating: 4.5/5
i received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating, and all opinions expressed below are my own.
the way i flew through this book was insaaaane i don’t think i’ve read a book this fast in a while! i absolutely loved abbakka, the main character. her devotion to her country, her bravery, her determination to be the best leader she can be—she is such a beautiful character who has brought justice to her real-life self. going into this book, i had no idea about the inspiration behind this book—portugal’s attacks against south india—which was very interesting to see a glimpse of in such a unique way. there better be another book coming soon because i don’t think i can handle waiting so long to find out what happens next 😭🤍 thank you for blessing us with this amazing story!!
thank you to netgalley and bindery books for this arc!
September 17, 2025
Quick very high level summary.
A retelling that takes place in 16th century South India where the Porcugi (half-men, half-snakes) who attack from the sea and Abbakka Chowta, a trained warrior princess does all she can to protect her people.
My take.
We have a strong female MC, moral ambiguity, mythical monsters, political intrigue, masterful imagery and a bit of romance. This story was immediately immersive for me. The author does and amazing job of creating a vivid depiction of the world and the creatures with narrative. Abbakka is everything you have to have in an MC. She is strong, resilient, vulnerable and relatable. There is a lot of symbolism throughout this story and I really enjoyed it. We have of compromise, sacrifice and personal growth that are intertwined with mythology that makes for beautiful imagery and vivid world building.
The blending of mythic monsters and historical colonial themes made this a really intriguing read that help my interest the entire time. So much so I could not put it down. There are twists that I did not expect and was left in shock after reading. I do wish there was more about the Porcugi of course but I do understand the direction the author was trying to go. Overall this was an amazing read that was well written and engaging. Absolutely enjoyed the blend of history, mythology and fantasy this book offered!
A retelling that takes place in 16th century South India where the Porcugi (half-men, half-snakes) who attack from the sea and Abbakka Chowta, a trained warrior princess does all she can to protect her people.
My take.
We have a strong female MC, moral ambiguity, mythical monsters, political intrigue, masterful imagery and a bit of romance. This story was immediately immersive for me. The author does and amazing job of creating a vivid depiction of the world and the creatures with narrative. Abbakka is everything you have to have in an MC. She is strong, resilient, vulnerable and relatable. There is a lot of symbolism throughout this story and I really enjoyed it. We have of compromise, sacrifice and personal growth that are intertwined with mythology that makes for beautiful imagery and vivid world building.
The blending of mythic monsters and historical colonial themes made this a really intriguing read that help my interest the entire time. So much so I could not put it down. There are twists that I did not expect and was left in shock after reading. I do wish there was more about the Porcugi of course but I do understand the direction the author was trying to go. Overall this was an amazing read that was well written and engaging. Absolutely enjoyed the blend of history, mythology and fantasy this book offered!
December 3, 2025
(4.5 rounded up)
A reimagining of Rani Abbaka Chowta's fight against the Portuguese invading Ullal in the 1500's, this story is compelling, rich, complex and oh so full of wonderful writing.
In this fantastical retelling, the Portuguese are depicted as Porcugi, giant half man half snake creatures hell-bent on causing destruction and overtaking kingdoms.
Through a series of unfortunate events, our main character Abbaka finds herself to be the new Rani of Ullal and she is immediately thrust into the throes of marriage and political machinations.
Abbaka is fierce and beyond loyal to Ullal and her people. She was so refreshing to read about, as she never backed down from a fight, but also had the discernment to realize when it was time to use her words or pick up the sword. She was strong despite everything that was thrown her way, and all the losses she endured. Truly an admirable character.
The side characters were also fleshed out very well and each had their own distinctive voice. Parushi and Thevan are the true definition of ride or die and I love that Abbaka has them in her corner.
Vishwajeet, on the other hand, was infuriating and I can't wait for him to get what he deserves.
Abbaka 's husband was very charming but beyond spineless. I wanted to shake him but I understood why she had to marry him.
The political intrigue, the Porcugi, the betrayals, the deaths, the longing between Abbaka and a certain character - all of it made for a book that I am now obsessed with.
I need everyone to pick this up asap so we can all collectively gush about how good it is. Definitely excited to see what else Mona Tewari will bring to the table.
[Thanks to Netgalley and Boundless Press for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.]
A reimagining of Rani Abbaka Chowta's fight against the Portuguese invading Ullal in the 1500's, this story is compelling, rich, complex and oh so full of wonderful writing.
In this fantastical retelling, the Portuguese are depicted as Porcugi, giant half man half snake creatures hell-bent on causing destruction and overtaking kingdoms.
Through a series of unfortunate events, our main character Abbaka finds herself to be the new Rani of Ullal and she is immediately thrust into the throes of marriage and political machinations.
Abbaka is fierce and beyond loyal to Ullal and her people. She was so refreshing to read about, as she never backed down from a fight, but also had the discernment to realize when it was time to use her words or pick up the sword. She was strong despite everything that was thrown her way, and all the losses she endured. Truly an admirable character.
The side characters were also fleshed out very well and each had their own distinctive voice. Parushi and Thevan are the true definition of ride or die and I love that Abbaka has them in her corner.
Vishwajeet, on the other hand, was infuriating and I can't wait for him to get what he deserves.
Abbaka 's husband was very charming but beyond spineless. I wanted to shake him but I understood why she had to marry him.
The political intrigue, the Porcugi, the betrayals, the deaths, the longing between Abbaka and a certain character - all of it made for a book that I am now obsessed with.
I need everyone to pick this up asap so we can all collectively gush about how good it is. Definitely excited to see what else Mona Tewari will bring to the table.
[Thanks to Netgalley and Boundless Press for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.]
November 5, 2025
WOW. EPIC FANTASY LIVES AND BREATHS AGAIN BECAUSE WOW. This book perfectly blends and interweaves the story of the real Queen Rani Abbakka Chowta and the Portuguese colonisation of India into an incredibly, lush, captivating fantasy story and after reading it I immediately went to look up the real history behind Rani Abbakka Chowta and the Ullal people and I think that is truly what historical fiction is meant to do as not only you enjoy these stories, they're meant to inspire you to learn about the stories of incredible historical figures and wow was I both entertained and enthralled by this story.
If the Dandelion Dynasty was about the colonisation of India from Portugal and had women at the centre of the story, it would be this book and oh my god it feels like it was meant to be read by me. It reminded me of the Dandelion Dynasty in that HEAPS happens in one book, like the book traverses YEARS but the story unravels in a way that doesn't feel rushed and feels natural but SO MUCH HAPPEN and you're left with 'what on earth is there to come'. There is also an INCREDIBLE discourse and commentary on colonisation and the erasure of native people through gifts and bartering and I feel like this is a part of history that I personally did not know a lot about but now I'm so invested in finding out more.
The characters are just so complex and interesting, Rani was an absolutely incredible main character her life was kinda horrific and traumatic but god she has got to be one of the most powerful and inspiring and just STRONG characters and to find out she's inspired by a real life queen? INCREDIBLE. Nallini and Parushi and the little girl gang they created that started as almost complete betrayals? ICONIC. Vishwajeet...you knew where it was going but you didn't know how bad it was going to be and honestly I'm really intrigued to see where his story goes especially his relationship with Aru...like I don't really trust either of them but also I need to know who is actually 'moral' or 'good'. Anyway I HIGHLY recommend this book it was incredible and genuinely cannot wait for book 2.
If the Dandelion Dynasty was about the colonisation of India from Portugal and had women at the centre of the story, it would be this book and oh my god it feels like it was meant to be read by me. It reminded me of the Dandelion Dynasty in that HEAPS happens in one book, like the book traverses YEARS but the story unravels in a way that doesn't feel rushed and feels natural but SO MUCH HAPPEN and you're left with 'what on earth is there to come'. There is also an INCREDIBLE discourse and commentary on colonisation and the erasure of native people through gifts and bartering and I feel like this is a part of history that I personally did not know a lot about but now I'm so invested in finding out more.
The characters are just so complex and interesting, Rani was an absolutely incredible main character her life was kinda horrific and traumatic but god she has got to be one of the most powerful and inspiring and just STRONG characters and to find out she's inspired by a real life queen? INCREDIBLE. Nallini and Parushi and the little girl gang they created that started as almost complete betrayals? ICONIC. Vishwajeet...you knew where it was going but you didn't know how bad it was going to be and honestly I'm really intrigued to see where his story goes especially his relationship with Aru...like I don't really trust either of them but also I need to know who is actually 'moral' or 'good'. Anyway I HIGHLY recommend this book it was incredible and genuinely cannot wait for book 2.
November 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Burn the Sea is the kind of book that reminds me why I love historical fantasy. Mona Tewari has written something bold and cinematic — a story that feels like standing at the edge of a roaring sea, with history and myth colliding right before your eyes.
Inspired by the legendary Queen Abbakka Chowta, this novel paints her not just as a warrior, but as a woman fighting for her people, her land, and her legacy. The writing is lush, almost poetic at times, and the atmosphere is so vivid that I could practically feel the humidity of the southern coast, hear the crash of waves, and smell the salt and spice in the air.
What I loved most was how Tewari reimagines colonial invasion through the lens of mythology — the Porcugi as monstrous invaders was such a creative and powerful touch. The worldbuilding felt rich and alive, grounded in real history but tinged with magic and menace.
That said, the pacing dipped a bit in the middle, and there were moments I wished for more emotional depth between certain characters. But those are small notes in what is otherwise an impressive debut.
If you love stories about fierce women, lush prose, and historical retellings that feel both grounded and otherworldly — Burn the Sea deserves a spot on your TBR. 🌊👑
Favorite quote:
“If you wanted me to be a bauble, you should have never given me a blade.”
Burn the Sea is the kind of book that reminds me why I love historical fantasy. Mona Tewari has written something bold and cinematic — a story that feels like standing at the edge of a roaring sea, with history and myth colliding right before your eyes.
Inspired by the legendary Queen Abbakka Chowta, this novel paints her not just as a warrior, but as a woman fighting for her people, her land, and her legacy. The writing is lush, almost poetic at times, and the atmosphere is so vivid that I could practically feel the humidity of the southern coast, hear the crash of waves, and smell the salt and spice in the air.
What I loved most was how Tewari reimagines colonial invasion through the lens of mythology — the Porcugi as monstrous invaders was such a creative and powerful touch. The worldbuilding felt rich and alive, grounded in real history but tinged with magic and menace.
That said, the pacing dipped a bit in the middle, and there were moments I wished for more emotional depth between certain characters. But those are small notes in what is otherwise an impressive debut.
If you love stories about fierce women, lush prose, and historical retellings that feel both grounded and otherworldly — Burn the Sea deserves a spot on your TBR. 🌊👑
Favorite quote:
“If you wanted me to be a bauble, you should have never given me a blade.”
October 15, 2025
Burn the Sea by Mona Tewari
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
What an absolutely fantastic, mind-blowing read. I loved this so much.
Rani Abakka Chowta has always trained to be her sister’s blade, the protector of Ullal and its people. But when the monstrous Porcugi refuse to play fair, Abakka must rise beyond duty, beyond fear, and claim her place as Rani, to fight for her kingdom and her people.
The plot covers such a wide range of themes-power, betrayal, colonial greed, and the heavy weight of leadership and yet it never feels scattered. Tewari’s writing is lush and cinematic; her worldbuilding bursts with vivid imagery that makes every battle, every wave, every heartbreak feel alive.
I’ll admit, the start felt a little slow, but once I got pulled into Abakka’s story, there was no going back. The pacing tightened beautifully, and by the end, I was just sitting there, wrecked.
Abakka herself is a phenomenal lead fierce, loyal, and unwilling to bow to anyone’s version of who she should be. She’s not written to be likable all the time, and that’s what makes her real. Her strength and flaws balance each other so perfectly.
Burn the Sea is a story of resistance and remembrance of a woman who refused to let her story be erased. It’s a searing, feminist, and culturally rich retelling that deserves every bit of attention it gets.
And the cover!!!! IT IS MAJESTIC
🌊🔥⚔️👑📖
Thank you to CJ Alberts, Bindery, Boundless Press, and NetGalley for the eARC!
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
What an absolutely fantastic, mind-blowing read. I loved this so much.
Rani Abakka Chowta has always trained to be her sister’s blade, the protector of Ullal and its people. But when the monstrous Porcugi refuse to play fair, Abakka must rise beyond duty, beyond fear, and claim her place as Rani, to fight for her kingdom and her people.
The plot covers such a wide range of themes-power, betrayal, colonial greed, and the heavy weight of leadership and yet it never feels scattered. Tewari’s writing is lush and cinematic; her worldbuilding bursts with vivid imagery that makes every battle, every wave, every heartbreak feel alive.
I’ll admit, the start felt a little slow, but once I got pulled into Abakka’s story, there was no going back. The pacing tightened beautifully, and by the end, I was just sitting there, wrecked.
Abakka herself is a phenomenal lead fierce, loyal, and unwilling to bow to anyone’s version of who she should be. She’s not written to be likable all the time, and that’s what makes her real. Her strength and flaws balance each other so perfectly.
Burn the Sea is a story of resistance and remembrance of a woman who refused to let her story be erased. It’s a searing, feminist, and culturally rich retelling that deserves every bit of attention it gets.
And the cover!!!! IT IS MAJESTIC
🌊🔥⚔️👑📖
Thank you to CJ Alberts, Bindery, Boundless Press, and NetGalley for the eARC!
December 25, 2025
I enjoyed this historical fantasy. It flowed well and the characters were worth getting to know! Some major plot points felt somewhat rushed or underdeveloped but it didn’t take away from the story itself. I’m unsure if I will read the second book, but I am glad I read this one!
October 10, 2025
Abbakka Chowta is the nuanced kick-ass heroine I didn't know I needed. I found this book utterly transportive - beautifully written and really well plotted. Even in the quieter moments, I was fully invested and not racing ahead to the next action beat. I really admire how the author was able to make something fantastical out of the historical record of colonialism in a way that felt true and fresh. I enjoyed her characterizations and the complex relationships in this story, and was fully invested in the romantic subplot (although be aware: if you're showing up for spicy romantasy, this is not that book). Absolutely cannot wait for book 2. Publishing industry: More of all of this, please.
November 4, 2025
If you read 1 debut novel this year it must be this one!
October 9, 2025
I was invited to read this from NetGalley and after reading the description I was excited to read this and it sounded right up my alley!
I was a big fan of Abbakka and Ethka’s relationship, those two would do anything for each other.
Aw my guy Thevan deserved better.
Vishwajeet is a loser, I was so over any interaction with him in this book.He drove me insane!!!! I needed my girlie free from this manipulator.
Aru started off strong, he has a way with words and he almost got me, but he’s pathetic really. What do you mean you’re a ruler and have some other man whispering in your ear telling you how to rule your lands! Grow a back bone PLEASE.
Overall, marry for love, men in power suck. Abbakka really is the best ruler.
Thanks NetGalley!
I was a big fan of Abbakka and Ethka’s relationship, those two would do anything for each other.
Aw my guy Thevan deserved better.
Vishwajeet is a loser, I was so over any interaction with him in this book.He drove me insane!!!! I needed my girlie free from this manipulator.
Aru started off strong, he has a way with words and he almost got me, but he’s pathetic really. What do you mean you’re a ruler and have some other man whispering in your ear telling you how to rule your lands! Grow a back bone PLEASE.
Overall, marry for love, men in power suck. Abbakka really is the best ruler.
Thanks NetGalley!
October 23, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
I nearly didn’t read this book because of technical issues, managed to get it working five days before the arc expired and ended up with one of my favourite books of the year.
Life’ll do that to you.
BURN THE SEA is a gorgeous read and bonkers levels of ambitious for a debut reader. If you adored the court politics and sprawling mythos of The Priory of the Orange Tree with the badass main characters and religious undertones of something like The Jasmine Throne or even The Unbroken, this will be so up your alley you can call it your neighbour. I cannot understate how breathlessly in love this book left me. Not to mention just how brilliantly Tewari writes serpent backstabbers (possible the best pun I’ve ever written.) This debut is thick with lore, monsters and tension and I truly couldn’t have loved this more.
We follow Abbakka, who is unexpectedly forced onto the throne of her kingdom Ullal after a tragedy that kills the heir to the throne and the reigning Raja. To secure that throne she must marry into the neighbouring kingdom, whose ear is pulled many directions including their marriage. She faces threats from the sea and the people who claim to be her closest ally.
To put it bluntly Abbakka was one of the best main characters in a fantasy novel I think I’ve read this year. Considering the books on my 2025 roster that is one hell of a compliment. She’s genuinely funny and brilliantly intelligent, and sitting in her mind while she strategises and moves all the pieces of her great chessboard was absolutely thrilling. Watching that arc from soldier/weapon to Rani was poetic and addicting. How she keeps her friends close and her enemies closer is a core theme of Burn the Sea, and beautifully done.
Where Tewari absolutely shines is in the moments she lets Abbakka stray from her moral compass. They’re dripped into this book, but there’s one or two moments where she lets our Rani really be evil for the sake of her kingdom. And it just works so beyond well. There’s no moral greyness here. Our MC does what she needs for her people, and Tewari doesn’t shy from letting Abbaka get her hands dirty
Warning to take note on: the love interest is a WET BLANKET. Give it sort of fifty pages and you will realise this is a feature not a glitch. I pinkie promise it’s worth it and the surrounding plot is absolutely worth the man with the jellyfish spine. Aru is cute, but very much a, “lovely now go read in the corner while the women do the real work dearie,” kind of character. There’s mild red herrings otherwise but that’s about the extent of his character arc.
Fine, let Aru be the distant star in the night sky that is my baby Abbakka. I don’t mind. Their relationship is a bit Peter and Catherine from the tv show the great, if Peter was 98 times less psychopathic for reference.
The surrounding cast is stunning. Abbakka’s relationships across the board are done great service, from her relationship with her sister and uncle, which only strengthened the impact when tragedy strikes. To the relationships we see her build with her close circle. I adored Chaaya and Parushi, the mothering/mentor figure done at two different spectrums but both really well. Thevan acts as a tertiary love interest and I neither took nor left him.
I don’t know if Tewari meant to leave me shipping Parushi and Nallini, but I absolutely did. The gen z in me yearns for the enemies to lovers and they were cute as hell.
Personally so much more could have been done with the Porcugi and the spirits at large. That’s my only real disappointment with this book. At the core of this is really the court politics and not the war ground the blurb more or less promises. I adored the politics, which isn’t something I’ll easily admit. It’s not tea parties and gossip like Bridgerton, but Sansa surviving King’s Landing with more knives. However, the actual war scenes, while well done, are more sparse than the blurb will lead you to believe.
I’d be pained not to mention our villain, not the core bad guy but a beautifully horrendous side piece that adds so much flavour. I adored the back and forth between Abbakka and Vishwajeet as they fought for the loyalty and ear of Aru and their kingdoms. The deceptiveness on both sides of the boards was so well done. And how Tewari gives Vishwajeet enough moral greyness in his motives and wanting to keep the kingdom safe was just chefs kiss.
Worldbuilding was spectacular here, and I love how much we saw of the kingdoms of Ullal and Banghervari. In very little space in terms of a very big book we learn so much about the different cultures, ways of life and how their histories intertwine, Tewari does it so organically that it stays with you easily. And everyone’s motives from the core group to minor individuals like the maids or the florist are clear and beautifully thought out. On the wider level I really enjoyed the mythos here especially the spirits. It’s fairly simplistic but I think it shines in that more ephemeral space. The writer absolutely nails the ancient tone and sort of sass that comes with characters like Matanta and even the Porcugi. Burn the Sea really drips with magic and intrigue and is set in a fantastical world that I was dragging my feet through leaving.
The ending hints at a book two and Ms Tewari get on that pronto please I need it more than air.
I nearly didn’t read this book because of technical issues, managed to get it working five days before the arc expired and ended up with one of my favourite books of the year.
Life’ll do that to you.
BURN THE SEA is a gorgeous read and bonkers levels of ambitious for a debut reader. If you adored the court politics and sprawling mythos of The Priory of the Orange Tree with the badass main characters and religious undertones of something like The Jasmine Throne or even The Unbroken, this will be so up your alley you can call it your neighbour. I cannot understate how breathlessly in love this book left me. Not to mention just how brilliantly Tewari writes serpent backstabbers (possible the best pun I’ve ever written.) This debut is thick with lore, monsters and tension and I truly couldn’t have loved this more.
We follow Abbakka, who is unexpectedly forced onto the throne of her kingdom Ullal after a tragedy that kills the heir to the throne and the reigning Raja. To secure that throne she must marry into the neighbouring kingdom, whose ear is pulled many directions including their marriage. She faces threats from the sea and the people who claim to be her closest ally.
To put it bluntly Abbakka was one of the best main characters in a fantasy novel I think I’ve read this year. Considering the books on my 2025 roster that is one hell of a compliment. She’s genuinely funny and brilliantly intelligent, and sitting in her mind while she strategises and moves all the pieces of her great chessboard was absolutely thrilling. Watching that arc from soldier/weapon to Rani was poetic and addicting. How she keeps her friends close and her enemies closer is a core theme of Burn the Sea, and beautifully done.
Where Tewari absolutely shines is in the moments she lets Abbakka stray from her moral compass. They’re dripped into this book, but there’s one or two moments where she lets our Rani really be evil for the sake of her kingdom. And it just works so beyond well. There’s no moral greyness here. Our MC does what she needs for her people, and Tewari doesn’t shy from letting Abbaka get her hands dirty
Warning to take note on: the love interest is a WET BLANKET. Give it sort of fifty pages and you will realise this is a feature not a glitch. I pinkie promise it’s worth it and the surrounding plot is absolutely worth the man with the jellyfish spine. Aru is cute, but very much a, “lovely now go read in the corner while the women do the real work dearie,” kind of character. There’s mild red herrings otherwise but that’s about the extent of his character arc.
Fine, let Aru be the distant star in the night sky that is my baby Abbakka. I don’t mind. Their relationship is a bit Peter and Catherine from the tv show the great, if Peter was 98 times less psychopathic for reference.
The surrounding cast is stunning. Abbakka’s relationships across the board are done great service, from her relationship with her sister and uncle, which only strengthened the impact when tragedy strikes. To the relationships we see her build with her close circle. I adored Chaaya and Parushi, the mothering/mentor figure done at two different spectrums but both really well. Thevan acts as a tertiary love interest and I neither took nor left him.
I don’t know if Tewari meant to leave me shipping Parushi and Nallini, but I absolutely did. The gen z in me yearns for the enemies to lovers and they were cute as hell.
Personally so much more could have been done with the Porcugi and the spirits at large. That’s my only real disappointment with this book. At the core of this is really the court politics and not the war ground the blurb more or less promises. I adored the politics, which isn’t something I’ll easily admit. It’s not tea parties and gossip like Bridgerton, but Sansa surviving King’s Landing with more knives. However, the actual war scenes, while well done, are more sparse than the blurb will lead you to believe.
I’d be pained not to mention our villain, not the core bad guy but a beautifully horrendous side piece that adds so much flavour. I adored the back and forth between Abbakka and Vishwajeet as they fought for the loyalty and ear of Aru and their kingdoms. The deceptiveness on both sides of the boards was so well done. And how Tewari gives Vishwajeet enough moral greyness in his motives and wanting to keep the kingdom safe was just chefs kiss.
Worldbuilding was spectacular here, and I love how much we saw of the kingdoms of Ullal and Banghervari. In very little space in terms of a very big book we learn so much about the different cultures, ways of life and how their histories intertwine, Tewari does it so organically that it stays with you easily. And everyone’s motives from the core group to minor individuals like the maids or the florist are clear and beautifully thought out. On the wider level I really enjoyed the mythos here especially the spirits. It’s fairly simplistic but I think it shines in that more ephemeral space. The writer absolutely nails the ancient tone and sort of sass that comes with characters like Matanta and even the Porcugi. Burn the Sea really drips with magic and intrigue and is set in a fantastical world that I was dragging my feet through leaving.
The ending hints at a book two and Ms Tewari get on that pronto please I need it more than air.
October 28, 2025
I think my favorite part of this book is when Abbakka is allowed to feel grief. Having lost the two people most important to her, while at the same time having the weight of a kingdom placed on her shoulders, she hurts. She cries. She reaches out to her friends for comfort. She isn’t indifferent; it’s not just a few token words and no reaction. It’s over a chapter or more of this pain, and these emotions become fuel for the fire that drives her. This isn’t a character losing their family to check off a box on a list of tropes; it’s a defining part of Abbakka’s life.
This is very much a book that has one of my favorite tropes: Character set on fire ends up being a phoenix and burns everything to the ground, and it’s a very well written trope. Abbakka is a complex character who makes mistakes, who trust where she shouldn’t, who surrounds herself with strong women — and the occasional man — and has to learn to wield soft power as well as bows and knives.
She puts her nation before her people, her people before herself, and stands on her beliefs. She is certainly not a hypocrite, willing to set her own shoulder to the wheel even when that may not be what her people need; she wants to help, wants to save lives, wants to make her family proud of her. But she’s aware of a woman’s role in this world, selling herself in marriage for the benefit of her kingdom, accepting her role as wife and mother as additional duties — and while she is pregnant an then has the kid, the focus is on her ruling. The childbirth scene is brief, and written more to show the bonds of sisterhood between Abbakka and the women who care for her.
Honestly, this is just a good book. The world building is excellent, the characters are strong, the romance and friendships feel natural and fully realized, and the villains are suitably villainous without being cartoonish. I don’t know if this is going to be a standalone or if there will be sequels set in this same world, but whatever the case, I will be keeping an eye out for more books from this author.
Thank you so much to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As far as debut novels go, Burn the Sea is one of the most immersive I've ever read; I absolutely tore through this book. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
Burn the Sea is a historical fantasy retelling of the Portuguese attacks on South India in the 1500s and the legend of Rani Abbakka Chowta, queen of Ullal, where the Portuguese attackers were portrayed as half-man, half-snake monstrous hybrids - the Porcugi - who control the sea and make demands for Ullal to pay tithes to not invade them. I really enjoyed delving into some of the possible choices the author made when writing, for example, the name Porcugi: Por for Portuguese and possibly cugi, the informal Italian word for cousin. I also thought the use of the snake hybrid may represent the Land of the Serpents (Ophuissa), which was the ancient Greek name for a territory in Northern Portugal.
The way Tewari tackles themes such as grief and colonial and sexist power dynamics is very compelling and thought-provoking, and I LOVED the way the senses, particularly smell, with the different spices and food described, were used to pull you into the narrative. Abbakka was incredible - strong, resilient, and fiery - but I also loved how Tewari kept her vulnerable side in the story. My favourite side character was definitely Matanta (who doesn't love a talking lion spirit), but Parushi and Nallini were close seconds.
My only gripe was that Abbakka's motivations and the narrative lost its way around the middle section and seemed to drag a bit, but this picked up in the second half. In terms of the romance elements, I didn't really feel convinced by either connection, but I understand this was not the focal point of the story.
Overall, this was a great read to end 2025 with, and the blend of mythic monsters, action and nuanced political intrigue made me excited to continue Abbakka's story.
Burn the Sea is a historical fantasy retelling of the Portuguese attacks on South India in the 1500s and the legend of Rani Abbakka Chowta, queen of Ullal, where the Portuguese attackers were portrayed as half-man, half-snake monstrous hybrids - the Porcugi - who control the sea and make demands for Ullal to pay tithes to not invade them. I really enjoyed delving into some of the possible choices the author made when writing, for example, the name Porcugi: Por for Portuguese and possibly cugi, the informal Italian word for cousin. I also thought the use of the snake hybrid may represent the Land of the Serpents (Ophuissa), which was the ancient Greek name for a territory in Northern Portugal.
The way Tewari tackles themes such as grief and colonial and sexist power dynamics is very compelling and thought-provoking, and I LOVED the way the senses, particularly smell, with the different spices and food described, were used to pull you into the narrative. Abbakka was incredible - strong, resilient, and fiery - but I also loved how Tewari kept her vulnerable side in the story. My favourite side character was definitely Matanta (who doesn't love a talking lion spirit), but Parushi and Nallini were close seconds.
My only gripe was that Abbakka's motivations and the narrative lost its way around the middle section and seemed to drag a bit, but this picked up in the second half. In terms of the romance elements, I didn't really feel convinced by either connection, but I understand this was not the focal point of the story.
Overall, this was a great read to end 2025 with, and the blend of mythic monsters, action and nuanced political intrigue made me excited to continue Abbakka's story.
November 11, 2025
As I was reading this book, I was thinking that it almost was historical fiction in feel except set in a fantasy world. And I think that that is a really good way of describing the luxurious world but always realistic political landscape in this book – so many fantasy books ignore what you actually have to do to rule a country, and so I loved that this didn’t shy away from the fact that sometimes an arranged marriage is the only option for the countries future even if it isn’t the best for yours. Of course when I read the authors acknowledgments at the end which discussed how this was actually a fantasy retelling of the story of Rani Abbakka Chowta, an amazing queen whom like so many others has been diminished in history books but this I feel was a worthy tribute because honestly it has no faults. Every piece of language is beautiful and lyrical and all the emotions feel so real. I will admit to staying up late for this book and I’m so happy that I started November with this book because it’s a five star of five stars!
Romance Rating: Sweet – kissing and making out are described and mentioned. We know that they sleep together but it is less than a paragraph in past tense and euphemistic on page.
Violence Rating: Level 4 – nothing unusual in fantasy but there are sustained bloody fights which go on for more than a chapter which I loved but might be a bit much for some people.
Content Warnings: a horse is killed and turned into a cushion to punish someone (animal death is always something I have to mention and this was pet death as it was an animal that the mc loved a lot), people die but that is to be expected, we have familial death as well. We have a non descriptive scene where the main character (minor spoiler here) gives birth but its not graphic focusing on emotions.
Romance Rating: Sweet – kissing and making out are described and mentioned. We know that they sleep together but it is less than a paragraph in past tense and euphemistic on page.
Violence Rating: Level 4 – nothing unusual in fantasy but there are sustained bloody fights which go on for more than a chapter which I loved but might be a bit much for some people.
Content Warnings: a horse is killed and turned into a cushion to punish someone (animal death is always something I have to mention and this was pet death as it was an animal that the mc loved a lot), people die but that is to be expected, we have familial death as well. We have a non descriptive scene where the main character (minor spoiler here) gives birth but its not graphic focusing on emotions.
November 15, 2025
Burn the Sea is a rich historical fantasy that calls attention to the true story of Rani Abbakka Chowta, a Queen who led her people and allies in a successful resistance against the Portuguese colonizers in the 16th century.
Mona Tewari’s writing brings history to life in a beautifully woven story of politics, love, loss, and a fight for freedom. I can’t fault the style, the pacing, the world-building. It’s lovely and well crafted. While there were some directions that the plot took that I found frustrating, it might be consistent with the historical inspiration and I think without would have made the plot and character development quite flat.
Instead of a magic system, we have an imagined belief system involving Spirits and this was one of my favorite parts of the book. The interactions our protagonist has with the Spirits is incredibly charming and adds another wonderful layer of depth to the story.
Burn the Sea flips the euro-centric historical script that often “others” those it seeks to conquer. This is told from the side of the people defending their shores against invasion and how they see the would-be colonizers.
This is the first in a duology and Book #2 has been announced so stay tuned for more!
I would highly recommend to fantasy and historical fiction lovers who adore a female protagonist leading a political fight for freedom against would be oppressors.
Thank you to Boundless Press at Bindery Books for providing this ARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Mona Tewari’s writing brings history to life in a beautifully woven story of politics, love, loss, and a fight for freedom. I can’t fault the style, the pacing, the world-building. It’s lovely and well crafted. While there were some directions that the plot took that I found frustrating, it might be consistent with the historical inspiration and I think without would have made the plot and character development quite flat.
Instead of a magic system, we have an imagined belief system involving Spirits and this was one of my favorite parts of the book. The interactions our protagonist has with the Spirits is incredibly charming and adds another wonderful layer of depth to the story.
Burn the Sea flips the euro-centric historical script that often “others” those it seeks to conquer. This is told from the side of the people defending their shores against invasion and how they see the would-be colonizers.
This is the first in a duology and Book #2 has been announced so stay tuned for more!
I would highly recommend to fantasy and historical fiction lovers who adore a female protagonist leading a political fight for freedom against would be oppressors.
Thank you to Boundless Press at Bindery Books for providing this ARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2025
From reading the blurb of Burn the Sea, I knew this was going to be a win for me. This book has everything I love in a novel - strong female characters, political intrigue, twists and turns and betrayals.
I loved that the author didn't shy away from the brutalities of war. Nothing takes me out of a story more than when there is war and no one dies. It's just not realistic! I thought Abbakka was a brilliant character. She is so strong and always stands her ground. She doesn't waver on her beliefs and takes the situation she's put into and thrives to be better. She is cunning and intelligent, but she is also flawed. I loved reading her story and I was rooting for her from page one. The cast of side characters were also fantastic. Everyone felt fleshed out and I was emotionally attached to nearly all of them!
I can see where some might struggle in the middle because the pace does slow. However, it is all necessary for the final build up and the betrays that happen! Everything in this book is very intentional and well thought out.
I highly recommend picking this one up, especially if you love a good character study and political intrigue.
Hoping there is a sequel after that ending!! If there is, I'm first in line to pick it up.
A huge thank you to Netgalley and CJ at Bindery Books for providing me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved that the author didn't shy away from the brutalities of war. Nothing takes me out of a story more than when there is war and no one dies. It's just not realistic! I thought Abbakka was a brilliant character. She is so strong and always stands her ground. She doesn't waver on her beliefs and takes the situation she's put into and thrives to be better. She is cunning and intelligent, but she is also flawed. I loved reading her story and I was rooting for her from page one. The cast of side characters were also fantastic. Everyone felt fleshed out and I was emotionally attached to nearly all of them!
I can see where some might struggle in the middle because the pace does slow. However, it is all necessary for the final build up and the betrays that happen! Everything in this book is very intentional and well thought out.
I highly recommend picking this one up, especially if you love a good character study and political intrigue.
Hoping there is a sequel after that ending!! If there is, I'm first in line to pick it up.
A huge thank you to Netgalley and CJ at Bindery Books for providing me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2025
I picked this book because the cover was beautiful. I know, it’s a superficial reason to pick a book…. But admit it, you do it too sometimes. I was not expecting to be completely entranced from the very first page. Burn the Sea was an action-packed story about a young woman, Abbakka, who becomes Rani after her uncle and sister are killed by the invading Porcugi. To reinforce her army and protect her kingdom of Ullal, she agrees to marry the Raja of a neighboring, richer kingdom, hoping to defeat the Porcugi. What she finds is that her new husband’s trusted advisor has promised monetary tithes to the Porcugi on behalf of both kingdoms. Abbakka wants to fight the Porcugi's extortion of her people, even if it means she goes into battle herself.
What also surprised me is that this book is a fantastical retelling of the Portuguese invasion of Indian kingdoms in the 1500s. I would encourage you to look up the story of Abbakka Chowta. It is inspiring. The way Burn the Sea tells the story is creative and inspiring.
My favorite character was Abbakka. Her duality of being refined royalty and a kick-ass warrior is fantastic. Abbakka is the kind of leader I aspire to be. Someone who is brave and confident in her knowledge and strength. I’m so glad they have announced a sequel to this, Before I Bow.
Thank you to Bindery Books and NetGalley for a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
What also surprised me is that this book is a fantastical retelling of the Portuguese invasion of Indian kingdoms in the 1500s. I would encourage you to look up the story of Abbakka Chowta. It is inspiring. The way Burn the Sea tells the story is creative and inspiring.
My favorite character was Abbakka. Her duality of being refined royalty and a kick-ass warrior is fantastic. Abbakka is the kind of leader I aspire to be. Someone who is brave and confident in her knowledge and strength. I’m so glad they have announced a sequel to this, Before I Bow.
Thank you to Bindery Books and NetGalley for a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2025
I think this is a really solid debut, and the story itself made me want to learn more about Rani Abbakka, her reign and everything surrounding it. But I felt like something was lacking in the pacing of the story. After being off to a good start, it was dragged for the majority of the plot, only to be rushed in the last few chapters. We didn't get to know a lot of the side characters enough for them to be that important to the overall story, and the falling in love was so immediate that it seemed the tension between Abbakka and her enemies wasn't really genuine. I couldn't care less about the love interest, if I'm being honest, I will consider reading the second book if this turns to a duology, though.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐️
Eeeeee this historical fantasy hit the mark. Not only is the cover gorgeous, but so is the story telling. There is an authors note at the end explaining the history the book is based in(I had no prior knowledge of this and it did not impact my reading experience).
Can we talk about the Porcugi for a minute?? Half men/half snake that come out of the sea to attack… YEAH NO THANKS. But I loved it 🤭
Abbakka is badass, cunning, beautiful, and I was devouring her manipulation of a certain character. She is also fiercely loyal to the people she loves and her people.
This book is lush, descriptive, and captivating. I quite literally could not put it down.
My only complaint is that I would have loved to see another POV thrown in-I think it would have added even more depth.
THAT ENDING!! Ughhhh.
Two favorite quotes:
“Not all cages have bars” 🔥
And
“Come back to me” 😭😭😭
Thank you NetGalley and Bindery books for the ARC!
Eeeeee this historical fantasy hit the mark. Not only is the cover gorgeous, but so is the story telling. There is an authors note at the end explaining the history the book is based in(I had no prior knowledge of this and it did not impact my reading experience).
Can we talk about the Porcugi for a minute?? Half men/half snake that come out of the sea to attack… YEAH NO THANKS. But I loved it 🤭
Abbakka is badass, cunning, beautiful, and I was devouring her manipulation of a certain character. She is also fiercely loyal to the people she loves and her people.
This book is lush, descriptive, and captivating. I quite literally could not put it down.
My only complaint is that I would have loved to see another POV thrown in-I think it would have added even more depth.
THAT ENDING!! Ughhhh.
Two favorite quotes:
“Not all cages have bars” 🔥
And
“Come back to me” 😭😭😭
Thank you NetGalley and Bindery books for the ARC!
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