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Avishi
Long before the times of Draupadi and Sita
Immortalised in the hymns of the Rig Veda
But largely forgotten to the memory of India
Is the Warrior Queen with an iron leg, Vishpala
Brought up in the pristine forest school of Naimisha, Avishi reaches the republic of Ashtagani in search of her destiny. When Khela, the oppressive King of the neighbouring Vrishabhavati begins to overwhelm and invade Ashtagani, Avishi rises to protect her settlement. But peril pursues her everywhere.
Separated from her love, her settlement broken, with a brutal injury needing amputation of her leg, can Avishi overcome Khela?
Immortalised in the hymns of the Rig Veda
But largely forgotten to the memory of India
Is the Warrior Queen with an iron leg, Vishpala
Brought up in the pristine forest school of Naimisha, Avishi reaches the republic of Ashtagani in search of her destiny. When Khela, the oppressive King of the neighbouring Vrishabhavati begins to overwhelm and invade Ashtagani, Avishi rises to protect her settlement. But peril pursues her everywhere.
Separated from her love, her settlement broken, with a brutal injury needing amputation of her leg, can Avishi overcome Khela?
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2017
67 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
January 7, 2019
I am in close contact with Sai Swaroopa ever since I reviewed Abhaya. I liked Abhaya so much, I decided to read Sai's future books. She gave me brief of Avishi almost a year back and I was eagerly waiting for print. I wanted to have printed edition of Avishi because I had very high hopes. Well, I didn't get printed version as the author is planning the same early next year and I cannot wait that long. I got an early review copy. I think I was one of the reviewers who got the copy when the book was just entered into Goodreads. I could have claimed the first review but missed the chance.
Talking about the story, our main protagonist is Avishi. A girl whose father was conspired in king's murder. She was attacked by assassins. She was taken to Naimisha, knowledge/power center of Jambudwipa from where any religious or social decision was taken. Avishi became a warrior under able guidance. She was sent to Ashtagani to seek her destiny. A fate was waiting for her in Ashtagani. Things changed drastically since the arrival of Avishi in Ashtagani. For more, I would request you to read the book.
Sai Swaroopa writes a story around strong female characters. Her stories show more female-centered characters than normal stories. Abhaya and Avishi both were different from the era they belong to. Avishi is shown as a woman fighting for a cause. Era was pictured when weddings were still under conceptualization, coins were yet to be introduced, barter was standard protocols between settlements. People had different priorities in that times. Sai has shown it wonderfully in very simple writing style. The best part about her books is to the point story with normal language. A good recommendation for any age group.
Detailed Review Link - http://chevusread.blogspot.in/2017/10...
Talking about the story, our main protagonist is Avishi. A girl whose father was conspired in king's murder. She was attacked by assassins. She was taken to Naimisha, knowledge/power center of Jambudwipa from where any religious or social decision was taken. Avishi became a warrior under able guidance. She was sent to Ashtagani to seek her destiny. A fate was waiting for her in Ashtagani. Things changed drastically since the arrival of Avishi in Ashtagani. For more, I would request you to read the book.
Sai Swaroopa writes a story around strong female characters. Her stories show more female-centered characters than normal stories. Abhaya and Avishi both were different from the era they belong to. Avishi is shown as a woman fighting for a cause. Era was pictured when weddings were still under conceptualization, coins were yet to be introduced, barter was standard protocols between settlements. People had different priorities in that times. Sai has shown it wonderfully in very simple writing style. The best part about her books is to the point story with normal language. A good recommendation for any age group.
Detailed Review Link - http://chevusread.blogspot.in/2017/10...
February 8, 2018
What attracted me to this book was the protagonist. Despite the fact that there are numerous retellings of mythological characters and their journeys, Saiswaroopa Iyer has managed to bring a freshness by reimagining ‘Vishpala’ from the Rig Veda. The book promises to tell us about a lesser known character who is the epitome of a female warrior – so obviously, I had to read it.
Avishi’s story has a dramatic start with her being rescued from a certain death. She is then brought to Naimisha where her talents and potential is recognized and she is trained accordingly. While Avishi remained in the custody of the Rishi’s, she prepared for her destiny which would finally take her back to her roots. But her journey is riddled with hurdles which she must overcome in order to prosper. Is she up to the challenges that will be thrown her way?
Read the full review on Bookish Indulgences with b00k r3vi3ws
Avishi’s story has a dramatic start with her being rescued from a certain death. She is then brought to Naimisha where her talents and potential is recognized and she is trained accordingly. While Avishi remained in the custody of the Rishi’s, she prepared for her destiny which would finally take her back to her roots. But her journey is riddled with hurdles which she must overcome in order to prosper. Is she up to the challenges that will be thrown her way?
Read the full review on Bookish Indulgences with b00k r3vi3ws
October 6, 2017
I'd like to add a new warrior queen to my favorites list alongside Boudica and Zenobia. Avishi fought for her people against an empire building tyrant. She is remembered in the Rig Veda as Vishpala who fought with a leg made of metal in ancient India before recorded history. Avishi by Saiswaroopa Iyer tells her story, and the story of Satya, the extraordinary healer whose dream was to create an artificial leg that would allow amputees to continue the lives they had before the amputation. I received a free copy of this novel from b00k r3vi3w tours in return for this review.
I recently saw a video associated with the Kickstarter for the upcoming special issue of Uncanny magazine, Disabled People Destroy Science Fiction. The video dealt with problematic views of the disabled in fiction. One of them was "super crip". I am happy to say that Avishi portrayed prosthetics in a realistic way. There were difficulties associated with using a prosthetic in battle. Avishi was not "super crip".
I loved Avishi and Satya, and was moved by their story. I was also fascinated by the themes raised in Avishi. For readers who are interested, there is a bibliography of the author's sources which includes resources on prosthetics, marriage and democracy in ancient India. Saiswaroopa Iyer deserves recognition as an emerging talent, and as a thorough researcher.
For the blog version of this review see http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2017/...
I recently saw a video associated with the Kickstarter for the upcoming special issue of Uncanny magazine, Disabled People Destroy Science Fiction. The video dealt with problematic views of the disabled in fiction. One of them was "super crip". I am happy to say that Avishi portrayed prosthetics in a realistic way. There were difficulties associated with using a prosthetic in battle. Avishi was not "super crip".
I loved Avishi and Satya, and was moved by their story. I was also fascinated by the themes raised in Avishi. For readers who are interested, there is a bibliography of the author's sources which includes resources on prosthetics, marriage and democracy in ancient India. Saiswaroopa Iyer deserves recognition as an emerging talent, and as a thorough researcher.
For the blog version of this review see http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2017/...
November 13, 2017
Avishi by Saiswaroopa Iyer is about a little known warrior queen named Vishpala (reimagined as Avishi in this book) whose references one can find in the Rig Vedas. As the summary behind the book implies, she was a brave and fierceome warrior way before the popular likes of Sita and Draupadi.
The story is about Avishi, who was brought to the Naimisha ashram as a child after a tragedy hits her. She is recognized as special and is trained to be a warrior, strong and brave. But no matter how hard she tries, she is unable to stop the same nightmare that haunts her now and then, the bits of memories from her childhood tragedy. She travels to Ashtangi to find out about her past. As the evil King Khela threatens to take over Ashtangi, Avishi fights to defends her homeland. With traumatic injuries and a tattered spirit, Avishi fears if she will ever be able to stop Khela.
The book is about a brave warrior, Avishi. To think that even at ancient times we had the knowledge of amputation and reinforcing an artificial limb is so humbling and a matter of pride. The author has, in a very detailed manner, described the lives and settlements of the people during the time and the commendable effort shows through the pages of this historical journey.
As for the technicalities, the narration, writing style and the story line are well executed. During the beginning, I did feel a slack in the pace of the story but as it moved forward, so did the intensity. I loved that the author has included unique discussions in the book like the institution of marriage and whether it would be useful or not, medicinal experiments and discoveries, all so progressive and inspiring. The story is not only about developing skills to defeat one’s enemy but also to develop one’s conscience and defeat the evil within ourselves.
Although the book is good, I did feel the slack, that I mentioned before, hamper my initial impression of the story. Somehow, despite reading the entire story, I am not able to get over it. I feel that the author should have improvised to capture the attention of the reader from the word go and not dwell too much on the goings-on in the ashram.
Nevertheless, if you are someone who loves reading Indian historical fiction, then Avishi is a good read. It is always gratifying when I read about ancient India and their modern ways – an oxymoron I’m always proud to use!
The story is about Avishi, who was brought to the Naimisha ashram as a child after a tragedy hits her. She is recognized as special and is trained to be a warrior, strong and brave. But no matter how hard she tries, she is unable to stop the same nightmare that haunts her now and then, the bits of memories from her childhood tragedy. She travels to Ashtangi to find out about her past. As the evil King Khela threatens to take over Ashtangi, Avishi fights to defends her homeland. With traumatic injuries and a tattered spirit, Avishi fears if she will ever be able to stop Khela.
The book is about a brave warrior, Avishi. To think that even at ancient times we had the knowledge of amputation and reinforcing an artificial limb is so humbling and a matter of pride. The author has, in a very detailed manner, described the lives and settlements of the people during the time and the commendable effort shows through the pages of this historical journey.
As for the technicalities, the narration, writing style and the story line are well executed. During the beginning, I did feel a slack in the pace of the story but as it moved forward, so did the intensity. I loved that the author has included unique discussions in the book like the institution of marriage and whether it would be useful or not, medicinal experiments and discoveries, all so progressive and inspiring. The story is not only about developing skills to defeat one’s enemy but also to develop one’s conscience and defeat the evil within ourselves.
Although the book is good, I did feel the slack, that I mentioned before, hamper my initial impression of the story. Somehow, despite reading the entire story, I am not able to get over it. I feel that the author should have improvised to capture the attention of the reader from the word go and not dwell too much on the goings-on in the ashram.
Nevertheless, if you are someone who loves reading Indian historical fiction, then Avishi is a good read. It is always gratifying when I read about ancient India and their modern ways – an oxymoron I’m always proud to use!
May 30, 2022
'Avishi' , never heard a name ,right ? So let's get started. This book is about a queen mentioned in Rig veda,who lost her leg during a fight and got replaced with a metal one. The author , Saiswaroopa Iyer has constructed Vishpala's life with the help of Avishi and has devoted to us through this wonderful masterpiece.
The author talks about a women with an unimaginable courage . When you start reading , definitely you are going to be enthralled by the hardships she had to face and her courage with a firm determination to face these hardships.This gives a message to everyone, that women aren’t weak and never were.
Sukratu was Avishi’s father who was a soldier at the king’s palace. One night, he got killed in a conspiracy by General Ugra and his nephew, Khela, and was branded a traitor. After killing Sukratu, his assassins came to kill Avishi, she was whisked away by Loha, a beggar Sukratu had taken in. Loha took Avishi to the forest of Naimisha, where all the respected rishis lived. The rishis nursed her and taught her the rules of dharma and how to fight. She grew up to be a warrior.
Once grown up , Avishi left Naimisha on the advice of Rishi Vahni to solve the mystery of her past and went to the settlement named Ashtagni . She got well settled there. Meanwhile, in Vrishabhavati, General Ugra had ascended the throne, and Khela was his right hand. Khela plotted with his friend Anudatta and killed his uncle so as to be the king. He was not like the other kings , he changed the course of rules that others followed and wanted to take over the other kingdoms and decided to start with Ashtagni.He started to cut its supplies short. A one-to-one duel where he cheated was called off. To compensate, Khela sent gifts to Ashtagani and offered to marry Avishi, who was now the head of the village. Avishi decided to go to Vrishabhavati, as she had a plan in mind that would help save everyone. She went to Khela’s palace, and later kills Anudatta when he tries to kill her. In the process, her leg is injured, and slowly gets infected. How will she fight to save Ashtagani with her leg?
This book is really a masterpiece by Saiswaroopa Iyer which is full of excitement, thriller, motivation and lots of cliffhanger situations. Once you start , it becomes unable to stop and the urge to read it just grows stronger and stronger.The author has become successful to put a strong message that never ever underestimate a women.
The author talks about a women with an unimaginable courage . When you start reading , definitely you are going to be enthralled by the hardships she had to face and her courage with a firm determination to face these hardships.This gives a message to everyone, that women aren’t weak and never were.
Sukratu was Avishi’s father who was a soldier at the king’s palace. One night, he got killed in a conspiracy by General Ugra and his nephew, Khela, and was branded a traitor. After killing Sukratu, his assassins came to kill Avishi, she was whisked away by Loha, a beggar Sukratu had taken in. Loha took Avishi to the forest of Naimisha, where all the respected rishis lived. The rishis nursed her and taught her the rules of dharma and how to fight. She grew up to be a warrior.
Once grown up , Avishi left Naimisha on the advice of Rishi Vahni to solve the mystery of her past and went to the settlement named Ashtagni . She got well settled there. Meanwhile, in Vrishabhavati, General Ugra had ascended the throne, and Khela was his right hand. Khela plotted with his friend Anudatta and killed his uncle so as to be the king. He was not like the other kings , he changed the course of rules that others followed and wanted to take over the other kingdoms and decided to start with Ashtagni.He started to cut its supplies short. A one-to-one duel where he cheated was called off. To compensate, Khela sent gifts to Ashtagani and offered to marry Avishi, who was now the head of the village. Avishi decided to go to Vrishabhavati, as she had a plan in mind that would help save everyone. She went to Khela’s palace, and later kills Anudatta when he tries to kill her. In the process, her leg is injured, and slowly gets infected. How will she fight to save Ashtagani with her leg?
This book is really a masterpiece by Saiswaroopa Iyer which is full of excitement, thriller, motivation and lots of cliffhanger situations. Once you start , it becomes unable to stop and the urge to read it just grows stronger and stronger.The author has become successful to put a strong message that never ever underestimate a women.
October 3, 2017
: Sai must have done a lot of research to bring out this masterpiece. This book, set in Vedic India is a refreshing change from all the other novels set in ancient India. It showcased many different aspects of that time, when women were equal to men and even had a higher position than them. It was also a time when wedlock was something new and prosthesis was discovered. All these elements make the story even more intriguing to read. Here are the pros and cons:
Pros: This book paints a picture of the face of India we have never seen before. The plot is very character driven and most of the characters are very strong. Khela, as a villan, is quite menacing. One thing I liked a lot is that the heroine, Avishi, by her physique, isn’t very beautiful or perfect, like those curvy damsel-like warrior women as most of the books portray heroines to be. Her physique is practical and she is defined by her confidence and amazing feats. And if you didn’t know already, Avishi is inspired by the warrior queen Vishpala, whose story is the first reference of prosthesis in the world. Avishi’s handicap and how she copes up with it sheds light on the determination of the differently abled people around the world, which is something very few novels have revolved around.
Here’s a quote I really loved:
“It is intriguing, how a person’s virtues are suddenly realized when he or she departs. The same virtues go almost unrecognized and without being acknowledged all life.”
Cons: To be honest, this is quite petty, but there were too many names starting with the letter ‘S’ which, I felt, were confusing. There were characters like Shanka, Shula, Svadha, Satya, Subahu, Shivani, Sharduli and Shrutishrava that made me rack my brains to remember who was who.
Conclusion: I really enjoyed this book. It was written very well and gave a glimpse of an unnoticed Vedic India in all its glory. An India where people were free to choose their partners and leave them if it didn’t work out. Where women were treated equal to men. Where medical care was much advanced as compared to the rest of the world at that time. Saiswaroopa brings that India to life in this wonderful novel. I would highly recommend Avishi to people who enjoy reading historical fiction and adventure novels.
Star rating: 4.5/5
Age recommendation: 13 and above.
Pros: This book paints a picture of the face of India we have never seen before. The plot is very character driven and most of the characters are very strong. Khela, as a villan, is quite menacing. One thing I liked a lot is that the heroine, Avishi, by her physique, isn’t very beautiful or perfect, like those curvy damsel-like warrior women as most of the books portray heroines to be. Her physique is practical and she is defined by her confidence and amazing feats. And if you didn’t know already, Avishi is inspired by the warrior queen Vishpala, whose story is the first reference of prosthesis in the world. Avishi’s handicap and how she copes up with it sheds light on the determination of the differently abled people around the world, which is something very few novels have revolved around.
Here’s a quote I really loved:
“It is intriguing, how a person’s virtues are suddenly realized when he or she departs. The same virtues go almost unrecognized and without being acknowledged all life.”
Cons: To be honest, this is quite petty, but there were too many names starting with the letter ‘S’ which, I felt, were confusing. There were characters like Shanka, Shula, Svadha, Satya, Subahu, Shivani, Sharduli and Shrutishrava that made me rack my brains to remember who was who.
Conclusion: I really enjoyed this book. It was written very well and gave a glimpse of an unnoticed Vedic India in all its glory. An India where people were free to choose their partners and leave them if it didn’t work out. Where women were treated equal to men. Where medical care was much advanced as compared to the rest of the world at that time. Saiswaroopa brings that India to life in this wonderful novel. I would highly recommend Avishi to people who enjoy reading historical fiction and adventure novels.
Star rating: 4.5/5
Age recommendation: 13 and above.
August 21, 2017
The Rig Veda has one of the earliest mentions of the use of an artificial limb – by the warrior queen, Vishpala. Avishi is a fictional reimagining of Vishpala's life and times.
Avishi, an orphan, is brought up in a forest ashram by the rishis and rishikas of Naimisha. In Naimisha, she learns the arts of warcraft and leadership. She has no recollection of her family or how she ended up at the ashram. But fate will soon take her back to the place of her origin.
The backdrop of Avishi’s story is an ancient India where society is still in a nascent stage. As Avishi grapples with her personal demons, the sages of Naimisha are contemplating upon and debating larger topics, among them, the issue of whether the institution of marriage should be formalized in religious and societal codes. Here, in presenting the issue from myriad points-of-view, the author provides a refreshingly positive portrayal of how such codes may have come into existence – after careful study and rigorous debate, favouring logic over ritual and tradition. And it is perhaps this pervading spirit of inquiry of the era that inspires the young doctor Satya to seek, against all odds, the answer to the one question that torments him: should the loss of a limb spell the end of a warrior’s career?
An ancient land feeling its way towards societal stability, strong and memorable characters, each motivated by different goals and values – all come together in an engaging story, where plot and philosophy are seamlessly combined into a great narrative.
Avishi, an orphan, is brought up in a forest ashram by the rishis and rishikas of Naimisha. In Naimisha, she learns the arts of warcraft and leadership. She has no recollection of her family or how she ended up at the ashram. But fate will soon take her back to the place of her origin.
The backdrop of Avishi’s story is an ancient India where society is still in a nascent stage. As Avishi grapples with her personal demons, the sages of Naimisha are contemplating upon and debating larger topics, among them, the issue of whether the institution of marriage should be formalized in religious and societal codes. Here, in presenting the issue from myriad points-of-view, the author provides a refreshingly positive portrayal of how such codes may have come into existence – after careful study and rigorous debate, favouring logic over ritual and tradition. And it is perhaps this pervading spirit of inquiry of the era that inspires the young doctor Satya to seek, against all odds, the answer to the one question that torments him: should the loss of a limb spell the end of a warrior’s career?
An ancient land feeling its way towards societal stability, strong and memorable characters, each motivated by different goals and values – all come together in an engaging story, where plot and philosophy are seamlessly combined into a great narrative.
October 31, 2017
Abyaya was good.
Avishi is even better!
Well done, Saiswaroopa Iyer!
The premise of the book itself was quite intriguing. A female warrior from the Rig Veda period, who got an Iron Leg created for her! I did a bit of research and realised that the author pretty much had to create the entire story from just two slokas in the Rig Veda. No mean task that 👏🏼
In Abhaya, there was a well known story to weave the tale around. Here, the author had to create it all, and she does so with aplomb.
It was quite fascinating to be a part of a world which is much older than even our epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. Thousands of years old actually. The way Ashtagani and the council of Naimisha was imagined, and all the little nuances the author carefully weaves through her story are as delightful as the warrior Avishi herself. So double whammy, this.
Am not giving away the plot or putting in any spoilers here. Anyone who's loved Amish's works and is fond of Indian culture and mythology will find Avishi to be a terrific read.
More power to you, Swaroopa. May many more female warriors jump out of our history into your imagination, and onto our bookshelves 🙏🏼
Avishi is even better!
Well done, Saiswaroopa Iyer!
The premise of the book itself was quite intriguing. A female warrior from the Rig Veda period, who got an Iron Leg created for her! I did a bit of research and realised that the author pretty much had to create the entire story from just two slokas in the Rig Veda. No mean task that 👏🏼
In Abhaya, there was a well known story to weave the tale around. Here, the author had to create it all, and she does so with aplomb.
It was quite fascinating to be a part of a world which is much older than even our epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. Thousands of years old actually. The way Ashtagani and the council of Naimisha was imagined, and all the little nuances the author carefully weaves through her story are as delightful as the warrior Avishi herself. So double whammy, this.
Am not giving away the plot or putting in any spoilers here. Anyone who's loved Amish's works and is fond of Indian culture and mythology will find Avishi to be a terrific read.
More power to you, Swaroopa. May many more female warriors jump out of our history into your imagination, and onto our bookshelves 🙏🏼
January 14, 2018
I loved the research Ms. Iyer has put in this novel. I have not read her other works but the way she has portrayed Avishi will stay with me for a long time. Stubborn, brave and ready to battle even a lion... literally. Avishi became an orphan at an early age and her training to became a warrior started after she was adopted. I loved the way the society of that era is depicted. Power of women, power in individuality and above all - everyone could take their own decision. Marriage was not a norm in those days. Though it was not an ideal society but gender discrimination was there. Must have been pleasant to live in.
I found this a difficult read. It's a well-written book no doubt but I had to use my full concentration while reading this book. And this admission coming from a history buff is a huge dent in one's ego :) But the names of the places and the names took some time getting used to.
What I loved the most way Avishi has been characterized. She had the guts to say no to the marriage proposal. Marriage was just being introduced into the society and one thing I must mention here - the concept of marriage is not introduced to civilize the society as it's commonly believed but rather to make a man and a woman take equal responsibility of the future generation. Interesting concept!
I found this a difficult read. It's a well-written book no doubt but I had to use my full concentration while reading this book. And this admission coming from a history buff is a huge dent in one's ego :) But the names of the places and the names took some time getting used to.
What I loved the most way Avishi has been characterized. She had the guts to say no to the marriage proposal. Marriage was just being introduced into the society and one thing I must mention here - the concept of marriage is not introduced to civilize the society as it's commonly believed but rather to make a man and a woman take equal responsibility of the future generation. Interesting concept!
October 22, 2017
India has a rich heritage. The civilization is almost 5000 years old and started with Rig Veda. Most Indians are not aware of this rich heritage. We have rudimentary knowledge of Ramayana and Mahabharata and not beyond this. This book is a commendable effort by Saiswaroopa Iyer to bring to forth that legacy.
There is mutiny against the General Ugra and Sukratu, his loyal bodyguard is killed. Avishi, his daughter is saved by a transgender and taken to another kingdom. What destiny has in store for her?
Language of book is rich and concise. Avishi is brave, intelligent and loyal. This is god book to be read but not in hurry. One has to spend time with it.
There is mutiny against the General Ugra and Sukratu, his loyal bodyguard is killed. Avishi, his daughter is saved by a transgender and taken to another kingdom. What destiny has in store for her?
Language of book is rich and concise. Avishi is brave, intelligent and loyal. This is god book to be read but not in hurry. One has to spend time with it.
Read
August 14, 2017You don't expect me to rate my own book, do you?
January 29, 2018
Loved the gutsy heroine and the Vedic culture depicted in the book. A little more pace would have been great. Thorough research by the author. Liked the book very much. Detailed review coming up soon.
May 17, 2018
"Avishi: Reimagining Vishpala of the Rig Veda" is the second book of Saiswaroopa Iyer. As the title of the book suggests, the book is a fictional re-imagination of Vishpala, a female warrior of Vedic time. We find the reference of Vishpala in the hymns of the Rig Veda. These hymns are dedicated to twin gods Ashvinas, the divine physicians of the Vedic Pantheon. These hymns mention that Vishpala lost her leg in a war and the twin deities gave her a leg of metal so that she could fight yet again when the war starts once more. Saiswaroopa Iyer expanded these few hymns into a full-length novel in the form of Avishi.
Writing a full-length novel on the basis of just a few hymns is not an easy task but hats off to the author who accomplishes this difficult feat with ease. There was so little for her on which to expatiate intellectually, evaluate, illustrate, and fathom the depth of. And yet Saiswaroopa Iyer appears to succeed. Meager means and scanty resources did not stop her pen to produce a brilliantly written novel.
Avishi is the central character of this novel. She, as a child, finds herself in a forest ashram after a disaster hits her. This ashram is run by rishis and rishikas. In this ashram, she learns the art of Warcraft and leadership. She has no idea about her native place; neither has she any recollection of her family. And, strangely, every now and then, she wakes up right out of a nightmare. This nightmare rattles her. Who is she? How did she turn up in the Ashram? Why is she having regular nightmares? Read the book to know the answers of these questions because I am not going to spoil the story.
The character of Avishi has been placed very carefully in this book. There are a number of other major and interesting characters in the book but this is Avishi’s story. She remains at the centre of the story. You will definitely fall for her.
The book takes the readers into a world where the institutions of marriage and cast were nascent and non-existent. The initiation of the concept of marriage and the struggle by society to accept the same is presented very subtly and delicately. It is presented by giving a series of counterpoints between man and woman. It is also presented through a series of symbols which reflect or suggest the inner conflicts of the main protagonist of this novel. Avishi of this novel stands both for change, and for resistance to change. We find the face-to-face encounter with new notions of selfhood and particularly of womanhood. Through Avishi, we see an early testament of the Women’s Lib movement. In other words, while this novel deals with the re-imagination of Vishpala of the Rig Vedic period, this novel also deals with the philosophy of marriage in the background. The author had a very clear idea of what she wished to achieve in this novel and she has achieved the same with some great effect.
As was the case with Saiswaroopa’s first book Abhaya, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book too. As an author, she is definitely establishing herself very fast. However, there are a couple of things that I would like to bring to notice. First, I found certain portions of the book slow-paced. And, second, some more pages could have been devoted to the element of the prosthesis. This was one of the central points in the novel and could have been developed further. Having said that, I would like to emphasize that Avishi is definitely a worth-read. Go and read it. You will not get disappointed.
Note: The review was originally posted on:
https://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2018/0...
Writing a full-length novel on the basis of just a few hymns is not an easy task but hats off to the author who accomplishes this difficult feat with ease. There was so little for her on which to expatiate intellectually, evaluate, illustrate, and fathom the depth of. And yet Saiswaroopa Iyer appears to succeed. Meager means and scanty resources did not stop her pen to produce a brilliantly written novel.
Avishi is the central character of this novel. She, as a child, finds herself in a forest ashram after a disaster hits her. This ashram is run by rishis and rishikas. In this ashram, she learns the art of Warcraft and leadership. She has no idea about her native place; neither has she any recollection of her family. And, strangely, every now and then, she wakes up right out of a nightmare. This nightmare rattles her. Who is she? How did she turn up in the Ashram? Why is she having regular nightmares? Read the book to know the answers of these questions because I am not going to spoil the story.
The character of Avishi has been placed very carefully in this book. There are a number of other major and interesting characters in the book but this is Avishi’s story. She remains at the centre of the story. You will definitely fall for her.
The book takes the readers into a world where the institutions of marriage and cast were nascent and non-existent. The initiation of the concept of marriage and the struggle by society to accept the same is presented very subtly and delicately. It is presented by giving a series of counterpoints between man and woman. It is also presented through a series of symbols which reflect or suggest the inner conflicts of the main protagonist of this novel. Avishi of this novel stands both for change, and for resistance to change. We find the face-to-face encounter with new notions of selfhood and particularly of womanhood. Through Avishi, we see an early testament of the Women’s Lib movement. In other words, while this novel deals with the re-imagination of Vishpala of the Rig Vedic period, this novel also deals with the philosophy of marriage in the background. The author had a very clear idea of what she wished to achieve in this novel and she has achieved the same with some great effect.
As was the case with Saiswaroopa’s first book Abhaya, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book too. As an author, she is definitely establishing herself very fast. However, there are a couple of things that I would like to bring to notice. First, I found certain portions of the book slow-paced. And, second, some more pages could have been devoted to the element of the prosthesis. This was one of the central points in the novel and could have been developed further. Having said that, I would like to emphasize that Avishi is definitely a worth-read. Go and read it. You will not get disappointed.
Note: The review was originally posted on:
https://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2018/0...
November 6, 2017
What attracted me to the book? Firstly, a strong female character and secondly an uncommon one! Many of us have just heard of the Vedas, how many actually get into the details of who is who? These authors and books are the gateway for us to a different world. I have read Abhaya by the same author, which again has a strong female protagonist. As an avid reader and a reviewer, this book was definitely in my hit list.
Book Cover and the Story
Vishpala from Rigveda is a warrior and the first lady with iron legs (artifical limbs). The cover art by Anirudh Sainath depicts both beautifully.
The story, as has been described by the author and by all the reviewers is about Vishpala from Rig Veda. She has been given a name Avishi. The story starts with a young Avishi getting separated from her father. As the story progresses, one gets to visit Naimisha Aranya (Jungles of Naimisha), Ashtagani and Vrishabhavati. The Samiti, where the wise ones sit and discuss is depicted in a way that one feels a part of it. It’s interesting to know that the era when this story occurs, did not have a concept of marriage and the samiti holds a discussion to set rules for the same.
The reader gets to witness a lot of political drama and war between different groups.
There are some points, where I was losing the continuity. But that can be ignored as against the complete package.
Characters
Some characters which stayed with me are Avishi,Gautam, Satya and yes Khela. There are many more and like any reader, it is tought to remember each one.
Avishi – For her independent persona. She is unstoppable and has that zeal to keep learning. Along the journey she just gets stronger and never breaks down. She is a warrior and a strategist. But she is not devoid of emotions.
Gautam – For his balanced persona. He understands pain, knows what ‘letting-go’means.
Satya – Our Doctor and Avishi’s mate. His determination towards learning the art and science behind smelting and making artificial limb.
The first three characters teach you to be unselfish. Each of them sacrifices love and relation for a bigger cause, their Kingdom.
Khela – He is the antogonist of the story. But he also leaves an impact. Some of his traits are important to understand and realise whom not to trust. Avishi over the time, starts predicting his moves.
The Research
I would really like to appreciate Saiswaroopa for all the efforts she has put. RigVeda just mentions about Vishpala as the lady with Iron Leg. Based on this, Sai has built a complete story. This is her second book, but the work that has gone behind it is evident.
Reader’s Comfort and Verdict
3.8/5
The story is fast paced and there are very few low points.
Grab the book or the Kindle version and go back in time. Get to know a bit about undivided India, glimpses of Saraswati river.Be a witness and appreciate the surgical advancement they had done way back in 14th Century.
Book Cover and the Story
Vishpala from Rigveda is a warrior and the first lady with iron legs (artifical limbs). The cover art by Anirudh Sainath depicts both beautifully.
The story, as has been described by the author and by all the reviewers is about Vishpala from Rig Veda. She has been given a name Avishi. The story starts with a young Avishi getting separated from her father. As the story progresses, one gets to visit Naimisha Aranya (Jungles of Naimisha), Ashtagani and Vrishabhavati. The Samiti, where the wise ones sit and discuss is depicted in a way that one feels a part of it. It’s interesting to know that the era when this story occurs, did not have a concept of marriage and the samiti holds a discussion to set rules for the same.
The reader gets to witness a lot of political drama and war between different groups.
There are some points, where I was losing the continuity. But that can be ignored as against the complete package.
Characters
Some characters which stayed with me are Avishi,Gautam, Satya and yes Khela. There are many more and like any reader, it is tought to remember each one.
Avishi – For her independent persona. She is unstoppable and has that zeal to keep learning. Along the journey she just gets stronger and never breaks down. She is a warrior and a strategist. But she is not devoid of emotions.
Gautam – For his balanced persona. He understands pain, knows what ‘letting-go’means.
Satya – Our Doctor and Avishi’s mate. His determination towards learning the art and science behind smelting and making artificial limb.
The first three characters teach you to be unselfish. Each of them sacrifices love and relation for a bigger cause, their Kingdom.
Khela – He is the antogonist of the story. But he also leaves an impact. Some of his traits are important to understand and realise whom not to trust. Avishi over the time, starts predicting his moves.
The Research
I would really like to appreciate Saiswaroopa for all the efforts she has put. RigVeda just mentions about Vishpala as the lady with Iron Leg. Based on this, Sai has built a complete story. This is her second book, but the work that has gone behind it is evident.
Reader’s Comfort and Verdict
3.8/5
The story is fast paced and there are very few low points.
Grab the book or the Kindle version and go back in time. Get to know a bit about undivided India, glimpses of Saraswati river.Be a witness and appreciate the surgical advancement they had done way back in 14th Century.
August 26, 2017
Before starting the book i was intrigued by the tagline the book had 'Vishpala of Rig Veda Reimagined'. I almost know nothing about the vedas but always curious to figure out what they actually are. Though this book has nothing to do with the teachings of vedas, i was curious to know that based on a couple of couplets of a Rigveda an entire 300 odd page book has been written. And the book doesn't disappoint me, rather it has made me understand how far an authors imagination can go.
Coming to the book its about life of a lady Avishi and her journey from Vrishabavahi as an infant to become the ruler of the country. The Naimisha settlement where the Great rishis reside takes care of her once she reaches there from the ashtagani settlement. she as an infant was taken away from solders of vrishabavathi by Loha, on the way to naimisha she was saved from a tiger by Dhruthi mother of satya, in the process Dhruthi gets killed. Avishi reaches nimisha and grows up to become a fine warrior. Marharshi vahni asks her to go to ashtagani. she leaves her love rishi Gowthama and goes to ashtagani. Once in ashtagani, she finds out there are issues with in the settlement, and finds out that the neighboring king of vrishabavati Khela is the culprit. Mean while she falls in love with the doctor of vrishabavathi satya who she finds out that is the son of dhruthi who saved her when she is an infant. Prahasta the ganapathi gets killed by the men sent by khela. Satya the doctor tries to amputate the infected leg of prahastha but dies in the process. Satya with the pain thats inflicted on him tries to build artificial limb with the help of rishi Jatila. Khela tries to win the ashtagani settlement and asks avishi if she can marry her he can give up the ashtagani. she goes to vrishabavathi but escapes from there, mean while her leg gets infected. Khela becomes over ambitious to get the control over the rishis of naimisha so that he can set the rules for entire jambudwipa. Avishi reaches naimisha where satya helps her with the recovery and with the artifical limb. The rishis of naimisha are saved by the avishi and the king of kushala. and finallay Avishi becomes ruler of vrishabavathi.
What i liked about the book is though there are parallel plots there was no confusion and the writing is lucid. Though at times i felt the narration can be a bit more crispier.
Coming to the book its about life of a lady Avishi and her journey from Vrishabavahi as an infant to become the ruler of the country. The Naimisha settlement where the Great rishis reside takes care of her once she reaches there from the ashtagani settlement. she as an infant was taken away from solders of vrishabavathi by Loha, on the way to naimisha she was saved from a tiger by Dhruthi mother of satya, in the process Dhruthi gets killed. Avishi reaches nimisha and grows up to become a fine warrior. Marharshi vahni asks her to go to ashtagani. she leaves her love rishi Gowthama and goes to ashtagani. Once in ashtagani, she finds out there are issues with in the settlement, and finds out that the neighboring king of vrishabavati Khela is the culprit. Mean while she falls in love with the doctor of vrishabavathi satya who she finds out that is the son of dhruthi who saved her when she is an infant. Prahasta the ganapathi gets killed by the men sent by khela. Satya the doctor tries to amputate the infected leg of prahastha but dies in the process. Satya with the pain thats inflicted on him tries to build artificial limb with the help of rishi Jatila. Khela tries to win the ashtagani settlement and asks avishi if she can marry her he can give up the ashtagani. she goes to vrishabavathi but escapes from there, mean while her leg gets infected. Khela becomes over ambitious to get the control over the rishis of naimisha so that he can set the rules for entire jambudwipa. Avishi reaches naimisha where satya helps her with the recovery and with the artifical limb. The rishis of naimisha are saved by the avishi and the king of kushala. and finallay Avishi becomes ruler of vrishabavathi.
What i liked about the book is though there are parallel plots there was no confusion and the writing is lucid. Though at times i felt the narration can be a bit more crispier.
November 23, 2017
This is the first book I have read by the author. I haven't read her first book. So I wasn't sure how it would be when I started reading. And I am a lover of Mythology but I confess I am more in love with Greek Mythology than Indian. This book has made me reconsider my stand. It has made me look deeply within our own mythology.
The cover was what caught my attention at the beginning and then the blurb had me thinking of reading of this book. This blog tour has only accelerated my reading the book. If not, I would have accessed it on KU.
From the starting, Avishi's strength shines through, from her training to her subsequent heading of Ashtagani to the finale. At the same time her character has the necessary courage to look beyond herself and see the bigger picture and this is what makes her a good ruler. Satya is sometimes shadowed by Avishi but he also is important since without him there would be no iron legged Queen.
The romance between the two is treated right with the correct balance and doesn't overwhelm the story. While it might take a while to orient oneself with the characters and the places, it all makes for a rather engaging read. The amount of research the author has put into it shines through. The language is simple enough to read fast and the pace doesn't let go till the end. One thing I was afraid of before starting the book was that the language would be more poetic since it deals with a long forgotten era. But it was just my paranoia!
The author has a way of bringing life to the story and the feelings evoked are equal to that of the characters, from passion to fearlessness in fighting. I was carried along with the flow of the story and I find the book a resoundingly 5 star read. I am eager to sample the author's works further in the coming days.
I received a copy for reviewing purposes. This doesn't affect my review in any way.
My one line review : An engrossing mythological read with a strong heroine.
My rating : 5/5
My reread factor : 4/5
The cover was what caught my attention at the beginning and then the blurb had me thinking of reading of this book. This blog tour has only accelerated my reading the book. If not, I would have accessed it on KU.
From the starting, Avishi's strength shines through, from her training to her subsequent heading of Ashtagani to the finale. At the same time her character has the necessary courage to look beyond herself and see the bigger picture and this is what makes her a good ruler. Satya is sometimes shadowed by Avishi but he also is important since without him there would be no iron legged Queen.
The romance between the two is treated right with the correct balance and doesn't overwhelm the story. While it might take a while to orient oneself with the characters and the places, it all makes for a rather engaging read. The amount of research the author has put into it shines through. The language is simple enough to read fast and the pace doesn't let go till the end. One thing I was afraid of before starting the book was that the language would be more poetic since it deals with a long forgotten era. But it was just my paranoia!
The author has a way of bringing life to the story and the feelings evoked are equal to that of the characters, from passion to fearlessness in fighting. I was carried along with the flow of the story and I find the book a resoundingly 5 star read. I am eager to sample the author's works further in the coming days.
I received a copy for reviewing purposes. This doesn't affect my review in any way.
My one line review : An engrossing mythological read with a strong heroine.
My rating : 5/5
My reread factor : 4/5
August 25, 2022
The book is a welcome sight into the reimagining of the ancient times. Many author have tried to write in the historical friction but few have done justice to it, without destroying the ethos.
Avishi was able to justice to the historical friction. The protagonist’s character building has been strong and appropriate.
Though in some part involving Astagani, a few of the story line seemed abrupt and sudden. Even though, the flow line of the story, character building was up to the mark. The book at times fails to engage the reader and the story line was obvious. One part where there could have been a better insight and plot line was Satya’s character, it could have been given more space and time, with more exploration and strong.
Over all, this book is a good read and a brave attempt by the author to reimagine the Vedic times. She has done justice to the re-imagination. Kodus to her.
Avishi was able to justice to the historical friction. The protagonist’s character building has been strong and appropriate.
Though in some part involving Astagani, a few of the story line seemed abrupt and sudden. Even though, the flow line of the story, character building was up to the mark. The book at times fails to engage the reader and the story line was obvious. One part where there could have been a better insight and plot line was Satya’s character, it could have been given more space and time, with more exploration and strong.
Over all, this book is a good read and a brave attempt by the author to reimagine the Vedic times. She has done justice to the re-imagination. Kodus to her.
February 9, 2018
I had read 'Abhaya' by Saiswaroopa Iyer and loved it, so with huge expectations I started reading Avishi. I had finished 3/4th of the book and started to feel that it was more of a thriller (absolutely gripping narrative) rather than it being about moral dilemmas, intellectual debates and bringing out perspectives which were not thought about earlier (it was the primary reason I loved Abhaya). Albeit there were flashes of that whether it was debate about wedlock or about a monarch's code of conduct etc.
But in the last part of the book I finally (to my relief and joy) found what I was looking for. It talked about moral codes, about choices in life, empathy, doing something for a larger purpose and vision and for people from whom you don't expect anything. I don't want to write in detail as it would act as spoilers for other readers but finally yeah :-) :-)
Another facet which I loved was how the author connects the Hindu mythology with the characters in the book, usage of places (Dandaka and Gautam was a masterstroke, even Naimisha), the Vedic oral education system etc. It shows the in-depth study of the author to construct this story and it has been done remarkably well.
On the down side, I feel romantic aspects in the book were bit rushed. They could have been more subtle and developed at a slower pace bringing out the emotions more emphatically.
All in all a fantastic read, 4.75 stars rounded off to 5 :-)
As a thriller, I would rate it as 5+ stars :-)
What's going to be next Saiswaroopa? Abhaya, Avishi, A..... ? :-) Looking forward to it
But in the last part of the book I finally (to my relief and joy) found what I was looking for. It talked about moral codes, about choices in life, empathy, doing something for a larger purpose and vision and for people from whom you don't expect anything. I don't want to write in detail as it would act as spoilers for other readers but finally yeah :-) :-)
Another facet which I loved was how the author connects the Hindu mythology with the characters in the book, usage of places (Dandaka and Gautam was a masterstroke, even Naimisha), the Vedic oral education system etc. It shows the in-depth study of the author to construct this story and it has been done remarkably well.
On the down side, I feel romantic aspects in the book were bit rushed. They could have been more subtle and developed at a slower pace bringing out the emotions more emphatically.
All in all a fantastic read, 4.75 stars rounded off to 5 :-)
As a thriller, I would rate it as 5+ stars :-)
What's going to be next Saiswaroopa? Abhaya, Avishi, A..... ? :-) Looking forward to it
November 7, 2017
To be honest, I am not a very big fan of mythological stories..I haven’t read this Author’s previous book “Abhaya”…. I started reading this book without much expectations..But now, I am happy as it is interesting and I enjoyed reading the same!!!
Protagonist Avishi’s father gets murdered and she is brought up in forest school of Naimisha..She travels to Ashtagini in search of her destiny..There she meets Satya, a doctor and is reminded of her past ..She had to save her people from problems created by another ruler Khela..What happens next and whether she succeeds in her mission forms the rest of story!!!
I loved the way the Author had penned the character of protagonist Avishi in this book..She is a strong woman who rises very quickly when she falls in her life..Her bravery, determination,leadership skills and how she fights against her own past insecurities are depicted very beautifully by the Author!!
Author tells the story in such a way that it is not boring and there is no overload of more information – I personally feel that narrations by the Author is apt and very clear..I liked the character of Satya’s mother who is penned by author as a very brave woman.
Overall, I feel this book is very much interesting and good to read!!!
My rating for this book is 4/5.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of book in return for my honest review..I didn’t receive any monetary compensation for the same.
Protagonist Avishi’s father gets murdered and she is brought up in forest school of Naimisha..She travels to Ashtagini in search of her destiny..There she meets Satya, a doctor and is reminded of her past ..She had to save her people from problems created by another ruler Khela..What happens next and whether she succeeds in her mission forms the rest of story!!!
I loved the way the Author had penned the character of protagonist Avishi in this book..She is a strong woman who rises very quickly when she falls in her life..Her bravery, determination,leadership skills and how she fights against her own past insecurities are depicted very beautifully by the Author!!
Author tells the story in such a way that it is not boring and there is no overload of more information – I personally feel that narrations by the Author is apt and very clear..I liked the character of Satya’s mother who is penned by author as a very brave woman.
Overall, I feel this book is very much interesting and good to read!!!
My rating for this book is 4/5.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of book in return for my honest review..I didn’t receive any monetary compensation for the same.
October 3, 2017
I have always been fond of Indian mythology, and one woven with fiction, I feel, adds its own intrigue to the tale. The fact that the story has been imagined based on a few verses of Rigveda adds to the appeal of the story and it satisfies the reader in me at all the levels.
In the backdrop of ancient India, the tale is about Avishi from Vrishabhavati who loses her entire family to a conspiracy, and is taken to a holy ashram of Naimisha, a dwelling of Rishi’s and sages who set the rules for all kingdoms of Jambudvipa, and they also train the children in various skills. Avishi chooses to be a warrior, and after her training, is sent to Ashtagani to find and fulfill her mission and existence. Soon she heads the military force of Ashtagani and trouble starts to brew because of evil ambitions of the king of the neighboring city, her birth place.
The author has woven a spell binding tale which does not let you leave the book even for a minute. The scenes are evocative, and narration is fast paced. Avishi as the female warrior is magnificent. The characters show the depth of personalities and bring out the relevant emotional experience. Loved the small nuances, rituals, simple living depicted for ancient India. The most fantastic fact which pulls one in the story was that there was no bias towards any gender in those times.
Highly recommended read.
In the backdrop of ancient India, the tale is about Avishi from Vrishabhavati who loses her entire family to a conspiracy, and is taken to a holy ashram of Naimisha, a dwelling of Rishi’s and sages who set the rules for all kingdoms of Jambudvipa, and they also train the children in various skills. Avishi chooses to be a warrior, and after her training, is sent to Ashtagani to find and fulfill her mission and existence. Soon she heads the military force of Ashtagani and trouble starts to brew because of evil ambitions of the king of the neighboring city, her birth place.
The author has woven a spell binding tale which does not let you leave the book even for a minute. The scenes are evocative, and narration is fast paced. Avishi as the female warrior is magnificent. The characters show the depth of personalities and bring out the relevant emotional experience. Loved the small nuances, rituals, simple living depicted for ancient India. The most fantastic fact which pulls one in the story was that there was no bias towards any gender in those times.
Highly recommended read.
October 5, 2017
What an wonderful read.
I was fascinated by the cover and description of this book right from the word go. A story based on the folk-lore of a warrior queen? Where do I sign up.I'm so glad that I signed up. This is an epic fantasy action adventure that fuses coming of age themes with fulfilling your destiny which are well-used fantasy trope.
In this case the story is done very well and even more intriguing because the protagonist is female. Avishi is such a strong character, even as a child you could see that she was made for great things. When her father is killed during an assassination of the king, her 'guardian' smuggles her out of the city and takes her to the mystical forest, Naimisha, where she is raised and trained as a warrior.Avishi knows her destiny lies beyond the forest and is not afraid to seek it out. Her life journey takes her through many perils, including having to confront the man who murdered her father who now wants her demise.
This story is well-paced and there really wasn't a dull moment. There were a few nail-biting moments where I wondered how things were going to pan out. I'm not going to give you spoilers. You really have to read this lovely book for yourself. I promise, you'll enjoy it.
I was fascinated by the cover and description of this book right from the word go. A story based on the folk-lore of a warrior queen? Where do I sign up.I'm so glad that I signed up. This is an epic fantasy action adventure that fuses coming of age themes with fulfilling your destiny which are well-used fantasy trope.
In this case the story is done very well and even more intriguing because the protagonist is female. Avishi is such a strong character, even as a child you could see that she was made for great things. When her father is killed during an assassination of the king, her 'guardian' smuggles her out of the city and takes her to the mystical forest, Naimisha, where she is raised and trained as a warrior.Avishi knows her destiny lies beyond the forest and is not afraid to seek it out. Her life journey takes her through many perils, including having to confront the man who murdered her father who now wants her demise.
This story is well-paced and there really wasn't a dull moment. There were a few nail-biting moments where I wondered how things were going to pan out. I'm not going to give you spoilers. You really have to read this lovely book for yourself. I promise, you'll enjoy it.
November 15, 2017
Avishi is a story of a strong-willed lady with the same name. Avishi is set in an era where the institution called marriage was not yet in existence.
Saiswaroopa has done a commendable job with Avishi. Though this is her second book, it is the first time I have read her work and I absolutely loved it.
Initially, I found it little bit slow-paced but then once the plot catches up it's just unputdownable.
I loved the manner in which the central character has been portrayed as a strong-willed, able warrior who has her heart and mind in right place.
Applause to the author who has done intense research and has nicely depicted that era, the people, and their living conditions, their religious beliefs and practices, rituals etc.
Lovely cover picture and the nice mixture of mythology and suspense makes Avishi a nice read and is definite must read by all.
Saiswaroopa has done a commendable job with Avishi. Though this is her second book, it is the first time I have read her work and I absolutely loved it.
Initially, I found it little bit slow-paced but then once the plot catches up it's just unputdownable.
I loved the manner in which the central character has been portrayed as a strong-willed, able warrior who has her heart and mind in right place.
Applause to the author who has done intense research and has nicely depicted that era, the people, and their living conditions, their religious beliefs and practices, rituals etc.
Lovely cover picture and the nice mixture of mythology and suspense makes Avishi a nice read and is definite must read by all.
November 3, 2017
Loved this fascinating tale of the warrior queen, Avishi.
It is in Rig Veda that the use of an artificial limb by Queen Vishpala gets mentioned thereby making it the first instance of prosthesis recorded in history.
Saiswaroopa has done an amazing job of reimagining the life of the brave queen who despite losing a leg, rises to save her people.
The amount of research that went to writing this epic story is indeed commendable. We read about the sages of Naimisha contemplating the issue of whether the institution of marriage should be formalized, among other things. The women are at par with men and in fact, in many cases, the women are stronger emotionally and better warriors.
Highly recommended if you love being carried into the era where the Gods and humans were closer to each other.
It is in Rig Veda that the use of an artificial limb by Queen Vishpala gets mentioned thereby making it the first instance of prosthesis recorded in history.
Saiswaroopa has done an amazing job of reimagining the life of the brave queen who despite losing a leg, rises to save her people.
The amount of research that went to writing this epic story is indeed commendable. We read about the sages of Naimisha contemplating the issue of whether the institution of marriage should be formalized, among other things. The women are at par with men and in fact, in many cases, the women are stronger emotionally and better warriors.
Highly recommended if you love being carried into the era where the Gods and humans were closer to each other.
August 26, 2017
What is most remarkable part of this narrative is how the author has added other aspect of the life of those times. I would not want to give spoilers or mention some of the research areas but be assured that you will learn a lot about the evolution of society and knowledge while reading this book.
The references mentioned in the end of the book are an indication how well thought and crafted this book is. Apart from telling the story of Avishi , it is a book that has some important lessons to offer in terms of leadership and keeping a community close. Much thought was given to the conversations and the strategic part of the story.
The references mentioned in the end of the book are an indication how well thought and crafted this book is. Apart from telling the story of Avishi , it is a book that has some important lessons to offer in terms of leadership and keeping a community close. Much thought was given to the conversations and the strategic part of the story.
November 13, 2017
4.5 stars, actually. Review at A Bookworm's Musing
Loved the author's narration style a lot. It draws me into the story. Loved the character of Avishi, and how well it is fleshed. It's not easy to do such a good job without lots of research when the character isn't as prominent in mythology, and that research reflects in the story. Would have loved to read more about the character of Maharishi Vahni though. All in all, it's a book I loved and would re-read.
Loved the author's narration style a lot. It draws me into the story. Loved the character of Avishi, and how well it is fleshed. It's not easy to do such a good job without lots of research when the character isn't as prominent in mythology, and that research reflects in the story. Would have loved to read more about the character of Maharishi Vahni though. All in all, it's a book I loved and would re-read.
October 23, 2017
A great start to this Arc story. Pulled me in on the first chapter. Thanks to the author for the chance to read this story for an unbiased review.
As I said the story pulls you into the mystery of Avishi on the first chapter. Feeling this is going to be one of those stories hard to put down.
A slow build up in the story and character development but I do like this in a story. I like to get to know the characters before the action starts.
November 16, 2017
Avishi was an amazing read. The book is a real page turner and wonderfully imagined. The story is well woven connecting the kingdom of Vrishabhavathi, the settlement of Ashtagani and the sacred school of Naimisha forest. The concept of no institutionalization of marriage during the time is intriguing and raises many questions but doesn't result in any concrete conclusion. But, all in all , this book gave good insights about how life might have been during the Rig Vedic times.
May 14, 2018
Although I love mythology, I haven't read many fiction books based on the genre. Saiswaroopa's Avishi is sure to encourage many to explore into this genre. The usage of simple prose didn't distract from the storytelling. I also loved that many modern feminist sensibilities existed in that era. The courage, the passion and the intelligence shown by Avishi were truly awe-inspiring, making this a wonderfully memorable read.
October 10, 2017
I love Indian Mythology and that coupled with the fact that the main protagonist is a female warrior did the trick for me...
The writing style is simple and the story engaging...
Definitely worth reading.
The writing style is simple and the story engaging...
Definitely worth reading.
September 13, 2017
Something you should knwo about the ancient days
A story of ancient India..... Plot is arresting ,but somehow the fight in the end is too much to digest,can be better...
A story of ancient India..... Plot is arresting ,but somehow the fight in the end is too much to digest,can be better...
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