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Dance of the Asuras
Not yet published
Expected 24 Feb 26
Freedom was her final dance, until the devil stepped onto her stage.
Niya is the most famous dancer in Khoya, bound by a contract to a kingdom that has stolen her independence. With her servitude nearly over, she is closer than ever to gaining safe passage to the revered city of Varnasi—and a life of her choosing.
But when Zehan, the Prince of Hell, witnesses her final performance, he claims her as his Chosen and drags her to the realm of demons.
Now, to gain her freedom, Niya strikes a new serve in Zehan’s court and use her magic to help him uncover who is stealing the souls of his subjects. The culprit proves elusive, and the more time Niya spends in Zehan’s world, the more her heart betrays her vow to leave.
Whirling between deceitful anti-gods and an unraveling prophecy, Niya finds a surprising source of power as she steps into an unexpected destiny…and an inescapable love.
Niya is the most famous dancer in Khoya, bound by a contract to a kingdom that has stolen her independence. With her servitude nearly over, she is closer than ever to gaining safe passage to the revered city of Varnasi—and a life of her choosing.
But when Zehan, the Prince of Hell, witnesses her final performance, he claims her as his Chosen and drags her to the realm of demons.
Now, to gain her freedom, Niya strikes a new serve in Zehan’s court and use her magic to help him uncover who is stealing the souls of his subjects. The culprit proves elusive, and the more time Niya spends in Zehan’s world, the more her heart betrays her vow to leave.
Whirling between deceitful anti-gods and an unraveling prophecy, Niya finds a surprising source of power as she steps into an unexpected destiny…and an inescapable love.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 24, 2026
11 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
N. Patel Baxi
1 book5 followersN Patel Baxi (also known as Neerali) has always been a ‘What If’ girl. Forever thinking about the future and asking impossible questions. Her stories come from a lifelong love for the magical and unreal. When she isn’t busy imagining new worlds, she spends her time sipping on chai, watching Bollywood, and traveling across the world. She currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband and son.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 10, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC copy.
What a unique take on romantasy. Such an amazing story! I don’t even know where to begin. I love how this is Asian inspired with a Bollywood take. Probably my favorite part of this whole book. And even though I predicted a piece of the end, I loved it so much. However there were other twists I totally didn’t see coming. That last page! Like what?! I need the sequel now! The world building is perfect, the character development on par, and the slow burn absolutely amazing. I was addicted from beginning to end. I’m obsessed. I can’t believe I have to wait a whole year for the sequel. Everyone needs to read this! Highly recommend!
What a unique take on romantasy. Such an amazing story! I don’t even know where to begin. I love how this is Asian inspired with a Bollywood take. Probably my favorite part of this whole book. And even though I predicted a piece of the end, I loved it so much. However there were other twists I totally didn’t see coming. That last page! Like what?! I need the sequel now! The world building is perfect, the character development on par, and the slow burn absolutely amazing. I was addicted from beginning to end. I’m obsessed. I can’t believe I have to wait a whole year for the sequel. Everyone needs to read this! Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
(arc review)
*minor spoilers ahead*
Got this arc and I was SO hyped about this one and it did meet my expectations. It feels like I was watching a bollywood movie and that's a compliment btw!
Loved all the characters!! Though my fav would be Hans, he has that vibe to him that I like.
It took me longer to read than I was expecting but the last 100 pages were all worth it (which I finished in one day btw). From the very start till the very end, this book had me hooked!!
Though getting introduced to sooo many characters all at once was a bit overwhelming but I kept reading. The plot, I kind of guessed (obv I grew up watching bollywood) but still that one twist at the end SHOCKED me!!!
Rati was an annoying character and her reasoning for doing allll that made me physically roll my eyes. Niya is my girl, I love her.
Also it was mentioned a few times that Zehan has beard... um, no, he don't! thanks for the suggestion!
And I should've known that I'll receive an ending like such. 😭 I have ALOT of questions that were left unanswered. And I'm hoping to get my answers in the next book.
My desi babes should definitely pick this one up!! It'll have you living in a bollywood movie. Not to mention I got so attached to the characters.
Thankyou Netgalley and the author for providing me with this arc!
*minor spoilers ahead*
Got this arc and I was SO hyped about this one and it did meet my expectations. It feels like I was watching a bollywood movie and that's a compliment btw!
Loved all the characters!! Though my fav would be Hans, he has that vibe to him that I like.
It took me longer to read than I was expecting but the last 100 pages were all worth it (which I finished in one day btw). From the very start till the very end, this book had me hooked!!
Though getting introduced to sooo many characters all at once was a bit overwhelming but I kept reading. The plot, I kind of guessed (obv I grew up watching bollywood) but still that one twist at the end SHOCKED me!!!
Rati was an annoying character and her reasoning for doing allll that made me physically roll my eyes. Niya is my girl, I love her.
Also it was mentioned a few times that Zehan has beard... um, no, he don't! thanks for the suggestion!
And I should've known that I'll receive an ending like such. 😭 I have ALOT of questions that were left unanswered. And I'm hoping to get my answers in the next book.
My desi babes should definitely pick this one up!! It'll have you living in a bollywood movie. Not to mention I got so attached to the characters.
Thankyou Netgalley and the author for providing me with this arc!
February 16, 2026
As someone of South Asian descent , this book meant so much to me. Seeing desi culture at the center of a fantasy story was incredibly special and every mention of chai made me chuckle (I may be addicted).
Niya being a dancer and Zehan being the prince of hell was such a powerful contrast. There’s something so beautiful about pairing art and grace with darkness and power. Their relationship unfolded slowly, and I truly appreciate that this was a genuine slow burn. Nothing felt rushed or forced. They earned it.
The world building was phenomenal. I could see how much thought went into crafting this story. The lore, the politics and the world were very expansive and immersive. I also loved the mystery woven throughout and the constant plot twists that kept me guessing.
And I was absolutely not ready for that ending. The cliffhanger has me counting down to the next book.
Niya being a dancer and Zehan being the prince of hell was such a powerful contrast. There’s something so beautiful about pairing art and grace with darkness and power. Their relationship unfolded slowly, and I truly appreciate that this was a genuine slow burn. Nothing felt rushed or forced. They earned it.
The world building was phenomenal. I could see how much thought went into crafting this story. The lore, the politics and the world were very expansive and immersive. I also loved the mystery woven throughout and the constant plot twists that kept me guessing.
And I was absolutely not ready for that ending. The cliffhanger has me counting down to the next book.
February 16, 2026
Wow! What a fun Indian-inspired, Bollywood-like romantasy read! I really appreciated all the research behind the verbiage used and different types of characters (and how fun was it to read my name on the pages for the first time within a romantasy read!!!).
I appreciated the dark-and-light themes and that everyone has a little bit of both. I also loved Niya’s characterization and development throughout the book, as well as Zehan’s.
Lastly, that TENSION! 🫣 I need more!!!
Also that cliffhanger! 😱 Can’t wait to read the next book! Perfect read for anyone interested in Indian mythology, dance, and a little spice and action!
I appreciated the dark-and-light themes and that everyone has a little bit of both. I also loved Niya’s characterization and development throughout the book, as well as Zehan’s.
Lastly, that TENSION! 🫣 I need more!!!
Also that cliffhanger! 😱 Can’t wait to read the next book! Perfect read for anyone interested in Indian mythology, dance, and a little spice and action!
February 16, 2026
A Courtesan and a Prince of Hell. She is a dancer in a court and has magic that she knows little about. He forces her to come to hell to help him figure out who has been stealing souls. If she succeeds she will be granted her freedom. While she figures out the gravity of how much power and magic she can wield she finds herself trying not to fall for this prince. The tension and chemistry between them is enchanting. The world building is rich and beautiful. The ending completely blew my mind!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished this book two days ago, but I haven't been able to write the review until now as I couldn't find the right words to describe how amazing it is! This Bollywood-esque fantasy will take you on a unique journey with evil Gods, kind-hearted demons and the Devil himself, who will make you swoon.
I was hooked from the first page itself. Being a South-Asian myself, I get really excited when I find fantasy novels with elements and settings that are familiar. Also, I speak Hindi, so I could easily understand the terms and had no trouble getting immersed into the story. I had high expectations from the book when I signed up for the ARC, and it has surpassed all my expectations.
Coming to the characters — they were well written with a lot of depth. Niya was head-strong, independent and did whatever it took to survive. She was deeply flawed and made mistakes, but it made her more relatable and helped me connect with her. Zehan was complex with differing personalities: one that he presented to the world and the other, only to people who were close to him. I didn't think I'd end up liking him so much in the beginning, but he managed to wiggle his way in my heart. New Book Boyfriend alert!
The supporting characters were great! The best part — I had fun trying to guess everyone's motives the whole time. Not everything was the way it seemed, including the portrayal of Heaven and Hell. There were quite a few shocks and surprises sprinkled throughout the book.
I loved how the whole idea of dance was blended in the scenes. It wasn't merely an act of entertainment but also conveyed and elicited a variety of emotions. I don't remember ever having read a book that portrayed the art so beautifully.
The magical abilities of the characters were impressive, and I especially liked the progress Niya made with hers. The conflicts between the various factions also added to the world-building.
The end was mind-blowing, and all my guessing games were futile, as I could not have seen that twist coming at all! The final chapter promises a lot more answers and revelations in the coming book, and I'm eagerly looking forward to it.
I highly recommend it to fantasy readers who enjoy Bollywood movies, want to read diversely and want a glimpse of Indian culture. It has action, mystery, romance that makes you tingly in all the right places and some spice.
I was hooked from the first page itself. Being a South-Asian myself, I get really excited when I find fantasy novels with elements and settings that are familiar. Also, I speak Hindi, so I could easily understand the terms and had no trouble getting immersed into the story. I had high expectations from the book when I signed up for the ARC, and it has surpassed all my expectations.
Coming to the characters — they were well written with a lot of depth. Niya was head-strong, independent and did whatever it took to survive. She was deeply flawed and made mistakes, but it made her more relatable and helped me connect with her. Zehan was complex with differing personalities: one that he presented to the world and the other, only to people who were close to him. I didn't think I'd end up liking him so much in the beginning, but he managed to wiggle his way in my heart. New Book Boyfriend alert!
The supporting characters were great! The best part — I had fun trying to guess everyone's motives the whole time. Not everything was the way it seemed, including the portrayal of Heaven and Hell. There were quite a few shocks and surprises sprinkled throughout the book.
I loved how the whole idea of dance was blended in the scenes. It wasn't merely an act of entertainment but also conveyed and elicited a variety of emotions. I don't remember ever having read a book that portrayed the art so beautifully.
The magical abilities of the characters were impressive, and I especially liked the progress Niya made with hers. The conflicts between the various factions also added to the world-building.
The end was mind-blowing, and all my guessing games were futile, as I could not have seen that twist coming at all! The final chapter promises a lot more answers and revelations in the coming book, and I'm eagerly looking forward to it.
I highly recommend it to fantasy readers who enjoy Bollywood movies, want to read diversely and want a glimpse of Indian culture. It has action, mystery, romance that makes you tingly in all the right places and some spice.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley and N. Patel baxi for giving me the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
The story of a dancer, a courtesan, a stage name so famous, that everyone came to watch her dance. Mohini was the name and she danced to take information with her powers in exchange to get the freedom she desires until Zehan, the prince of hell arrives and takes her away on another journey.
Everything Niya ( her real name) knew about hell was not entirely true as foretold on earth. And that's where everything began.
It's amazing how this story moved on, and how Niya and Zehan relationship forged from hate to something more . But what truly surprised me was the ending. It was so overwhelming. But their love will never fade away.
Everything about them together was a havoc, because they had to go through so much, from finding information from Asuras, staying away from Rati's mind games and other things...
The later half of the book was absolutely fantastic, but also too many things happened at the same time, Rati telling Niya about Zehan's true purpose and the prophecy, Rati with asura trials, opening the gates, Yama ( God of hell) being alive and the last part of Niya becoming the queen, the ruler of Hell.
Too much blood shed, too many hidden truths and secrets all being revealed until Yama and Zehan were snatched away to the gates of Heaven.
It was truly amazing 😭 but I'm so scared of what's to happen next after all the events that has taken place. How will Niya find Zehan back to her and how Niya will face the future... is up to the next book for which I can't wait.
The story of a dancer, a courtesan, a stage name so famous, that everyone came to watch her dance. Mohini was the name and she danced to take information with her powers in exchange to get the freedom she desires until Zehan, the prince of hell arrives and takes her away on another journey.
Everything Niya ( her real name) knew about hell was not entirely true as foretold on earth. And that's where everything began.
It's amazing how this story moved on, and how Niya and Zehan relationship forged from hate to something more . But what truly surprised me was the ending. It was so overwhelming. But their love will never fade away.
Everything about them together was a havoc, because they had to go through so much, from finding information from Asuras, staying away from Rati's mind games and other things...
The later half of the book was absolutely fantastic, but also too many things happened at the same time, Rati telling Niya about Zehan's true purpose and the prophecy, Rati with asura trials, opening the gates, Yama ( God of hell) being alive and the last part of Niya becoming the queen, the ruler of Hell.
Too much blood shed, too many hidden truths and secrets all being revealed until Yama and Zehan were snatched away to the gates of Heaven.
It was truly amazing 😭 but I'm so scared of what's to happen next after all the events that has taken place. How will Niya find Zehan back to her and how Niya will face the future... is up to the next book for which I can't wait.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Dance of the Asuras by N. Patel Baxi is fierce, mesmerizing, and unapologetically intense. From the opening pages, the story pulses with mythic energy — dark, rhythmic, and impossible to look away from. It feels less like reading a book and more like stepping into an ancient, living legend.
The world-building is rich and immersive, layered with cultural depth and spiritual undertones that give the story weight and resonance. There’s a raw power in the way Baxi weaves mythology with human emotion — ambition, betrayal, devotion, and destiny all collide in breathtaking ways.
What truly stood out to me was the emotional intensity. The characters are complex and morally layered, walking the fine line between light and shadow. Their choices feel consequential, their struggles deeply personal even against an epic backdrop. Every confrontation carries both physical and emotional stakes.
This is a five-star read because it commits fully to its vision — bold, atmospheric, and unafraid of darkness. It’s dramatic in the best way, sweeping yet intimate, and lingers long after the final page.
If you love myth-inspired fantasy with depth, tension, and a haunting edge, Dance of the Asuras is an unforgettable experience.
The world-building is rich and immersive, layered with cultural depth and spiritual undertones that give the story weight and resonance. There’s a raw power in the way Baxi weaves mythology with human emotion — ambition, betrayal, devotion, and destiny all collide in breathtaking ways.
What truly stood out to me was the emotional intensity. The characters are complex and morally layered, walking the fine line between light and shadow. Their choices feel consequential, their struggles deeply personal even against an epic backdrop. Every confrontation carries both physical and emotional stakes.
This is a five-star read because it commits fully to its vision — bold, atmospheric, and unafraid of darkness. It’s dramatic in the best way, sweeping yet intimate, and lingers long after the final page.
If you love myth-inspired fantasy with depth, tension, and a haunting edge, Dance of the Asuras is an unforgettable experience.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed it. This is definitely a throwback to YA romances and fantasies of the 2015-2017s.
I had a lot of skepticism. I read YA fantasy with romance in the early 2015s and some of 2017’s. I see a similarity in how romance is centered or contributes to the plot.I think that modern romantasy is very similar to those specific periods with little more adult detail in intimacy. I think if I had read this in the 2017s it would fit right in with books like Renee Ahdieh’s The Wrath and the Dawn.
I needed to get to the 40% mark before I became interested in the story. I think Neerali writes a very whole conflict— lot of players involved, world, history, and ambiguity of what they all know. The ending is strong. To me, very interesting and ends well. This series has a lot of potential and I’m excited to see where it goes after the ending.
I can admit there are moments where the pov seems absurd. Not because pov itself maybe the wording of it all. Yeah she’s really attracted him. It’s how that is incorporated in their shared scenes that aren’t romantic. The banter isn’t to my taste.
Thank you Neerali Patel Baxi for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I had a lot of skepticism. I read YA fantasy with romance in the early 2015s and some of 2017’s. I see a similarity in how romance is centered or contributes to the plot.I think that modern romantasy is very similar to those specific periods with little more adult detail in intimacy. I think if I had read this in the 2017s it would fit right in with books like Renee Ahdieh’s The Wrath and the Dawn.
I needed to get to the 40% mark before I became interested in the story. I think Neerali writes a very whole conflict— lot of players involved, world, history, and ambiguity of what they all know. The ending is strong. To me, very interesting and ends well. This series has a lot of potential and I’m excited to see where it goes after the ending.
I can admit there are moments where the pov seems absurd. Not because pov itself maybe the wording of it all. Yeah she’s really attracted him. It’s how that is incorporated in their shared scenes that aren’t romantic. The banter isn’t to my taste.
Thank you Neerali Patel Baxi for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2026
4.5 rounded up to 5. Imagine a Bollywood movie with amazing sultry dancing and then throw in the hot God of Hell, secret magic and a mystery. This fantasy used Indian mythology and Hindu religious concepts to create a world where gods and demons walk among humans and between worlds. Our FMC, Niya, is a dancer trapped in a contract to dance and manipulate men as a courtesan to a human king. She ends up into a forced agreement with the deva/god who rules hell and brought there to help him solve a mystery. Guys, the best fantasy tropes and good times then happen.
“Who did this to you?”
Custom special dresses
Magical secret powers
Heroine with sass and courage
Trials
Villains you want to punch
Hot Bad Guy
The story drew me in and I didn’t want to stop reading. I loved the world building and I felt like it was just lush and colorful. The story was also relentless as so much continued to happen till the end which was a cliffhanger. *shakes fist in the air* I want the second book asap.
I received this book as an ARC from the author after making a request as I will always support a South Asian author.
“Who did this to you?”
Custom special dresses
Magical secret powers
Heroine with sass and courage
Trials
Villains you want to punch
Hot Bad Guy
The story drew me in and I didn’t want to stop reading. I loved the world building and I felt like it was just lush and colorful. The story was also relentless as so much continued to happen till the end which was a cliffhanger. *shakes fist in the air* I want the second book asap.
I received this book as an ARC from the author after making a request as I will always support a South Asian author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a brilliantly executed layered story!
As a South Asian, I was immediately drawn to the opportunity to read a story that is centered around Hindu mythology. Specifically, I appreciate the short introduction of who the Devas and Asuras were without getting deep into to their backstories. The writing was vivid, where i could imagine the beautiful scenery, outfits, and dance scenes.
What will stick with me are the underlying messages the main character received and learned through the story, allowing Niya to fully step into her power.
As a South Asian, I was immediately drawn to the opportunity to read a story that is centered around Hindu mythology. Specifically, I appreciate the short introduction of who the Devas and Asuras were without getting deep into to their backstories. The writing was vivid, where i could imagine the beautiful scenery, outfits, and dance scenes.
What will stick with me are the underlying messages the main character received and learned through the story, allowing Niya to fully step into her power.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A book you won’t want to put down! Highly recommend adding to your TBR immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5
As an Indian book lover, it always makes me so happy to see representation in books, especially if it's the main character(s).
I lived my bollywood dreams vicariously through our main character, Niya, who is a trained dancer. Girl's got the face card, the moves and the man. And Neerali really delivered with the dreamy dance scenes & the rich world building.
The tension and chemistry between Zehan and Niya was so thick you could literally cut it with a knife. there were so many times that the author included almost spicy scenes and then kept us hanging!!
The wait for book 2 is veryyy long and I for one cannot wait to get my hands on it
Thank you so much for the eARC!! so excited for release day:)
As an Indian book lover, it always makes me so happy to see representation in books, especially if it's the main character(s).
I lived my bollywood dreams vicariously through our main character, Niya, who is a trained dancer. Girl's got the face card, the moves and the man. And Neerali really delivered with the dreamy dance scenes & the rich world building.
The tension and chemistry between Zehan and Niya was so thick you could literally cut it with a knife. there were so many times that the author included almost spicy scenes and then kept us hanging!!
The wait for book 2 is veryyy long and I for one cannot wait to get my hands on it
Thank you so much for the eARC!! so excited for release day:)
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews