What do you think?
Rate this book
The Tiger at Midnight Trilogy #3
The Chariot at Dusk
A queen at last. An empty palace. A kingdom to save.
Esha is reeling from Kunal’s betrayal, but she has a kingdom to rule from behind a thin smokescreen—pretending to be Princess Reha while she sends her most trusted soldiers to collect Reha and Kunal by any means necessary. Traitors, after all, must be punished.
But the Yavar are attacking from every front—tracking down Kunal and Reha in the remote mountains, kidnapping Harun—in search of legendary artifacts that will give them the power to break the precarious janma bond and release the destructive magic back into the lands.
Now that the race is on to find the missing artifacts, Esha must put aside her rage and work with Kunal again—but can she find the strength to forgive him, or will the Viper have her revenge at any cost?
In the final book of Swati Teerdhala’s epic fantasy trilogy, the lands’ fate, their people’s livelihoods, and the bond that sustains their world all depend on what Kunal and Esha can offer—to the gods and to each other.
Esha is reeling from Kunal’s betrayal, but she has a kingdom to rule from behind a thin smokescreen—pretending to be Princess Reha while she sends her most trusted soldiers to collect Reha and Kunal by any means necessary. Traitors, after all, must be punished.
But the Yavar are attacking from every front—tracking down Kunal and Reha in the remote mountains, kidnapping Harun—in search of legendary artifacts that will give them the power to break the precarious janma bond and release the destructive magic back into the lands.
Now that the race is on to find the missing artifacts, Esha must put aside her rage and work with Kunal again—but can she find the strength to forgive him, or will the Viper have her revenge at any cost?
In the final book of Swati Teerdhala’s epic fantasy trilogy, the lands’ fate, their people’s livelihoods, and the bond that sustains their world all depend on what Kunal and Esha can offer—to the gods and to each other.
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 29, 2021
42 people are currently reading
4578 people want to read
About the author
Swati Teerdhala
6 books623 followersSwati Teerdhala is a storyteller and writer.
After graduating from the University of Virginia with a B.S. in Finance and History, she tumbled into the marketing side of the technology industry. She’s passionate about many things, including how to make a proper cup of chai, the right ratio of curd-to-crust in a lemon tart, and diverse representation in the stories we tell.
She currently lives in New York City.
After graduating from the University of Virginia with a B.S. in Finance and History, she tumbled into the marketing side of the technology industry. She’s passionate about many things, including how to make a proper cup of chai, the right ratio of curd-to-crust in a lemon tart, and diverse representation in the stories we tell.
She currently lives in New York City.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
July 15, 2021
"Even when the Viper had been all the world had seen, Kunal had seen Esha.
He had fought for Esha."
I can't believe this series is actually over now. It's a bittersweet feeling. I've grown extremely attached to these characters and I already miss them, but I'm excited to see what Swati Teerdhala does next.
As for this installment, I can't pretend I don't have mixed feelings about it. Particularly the first 60%, which felt more like a bridge book than the first half of the series finale. I'd already written a rather wordy review when I realized I just sounded angry at this book, which I am, to an extent. But I also feel like that kind of review would have sent the message that I completely hated this, and I didn't. I was let down, but it wasn't bad.
So instead, I'm going to keep this short and only mention my qualms very briefly: namely, the pacing and the characterization.
I saw another reviewer saying that they almost felt like this should have been a quartet instead of a trilogy, in order to fix the pacing problems of this book and I agree completely. Everything about this book seemed so incredibly rushed and yet it was also like nothing was ever going to happen, even though things were happening? I'm not quite sure how to explain it.
As for the characters, we knew at the end of Archer at Dawn that things were going to be tense this book and I expected it. But there was something about the way the characters acted and treated each other that seemed to undo so much of their previous character development. Without risking spoilers, two characters spend so much of this book at each other's throats that by the time they've supposedly resolved their problems, it feels rushed and insignificant in comparison to the way they've treated each other.
I will say, Harun was one of my favorite characters this book, which shocked me since he got on my nerves in the previous books. I won't say anything else other than he deserves better. I'm actually kind of hoping we get a spin-off book focused on him. Maybe?
Overall
Even though this book was definitely my least favorite in this series, this is still one of my favorite trilogies and I'm still going to recommend it to literally everyone. There are just some things that I desperately wish we had gotten some closure, or at least peace with.
He had fought for Esha."
I can't believe this series is actually over now. It's a bittersweet feeling. I've grown extremely attached to these characters and I already miss them, but I'm excited to see what Swati Teerdhala does next.
As for this installment, I can't pretend I don't have mixed feelings about it. Particularly the first 60%, which felt more like a bridge book than the first half of the series finale. I'd already written a rather wordy review when I realized I just sounded angry at this book, which I am, to an extent. But I also feel like that kind of review would have sent the message that I completely hated this, and I didn't. I was let down, but it wasn't bad.
So instead, I'm going to keep this short and only mention my qualms very briefly: namely, the pacing and the characterization.
I saw another reviewer saying that they almost felt like this should have been a quartet instead of a trilogy, in order to fix the pacing problems of this book and I agree completely. Everything about this book seemed so incredibly rushed and yet it was also like nothing was ever going to happen, even though things were happening? I'm not quite sure how to explain it.
As for the characters, we knew at the end of Archer at Dawn that things were going to be tense this book and I expected it. But there was something about the way the characters acted and treated each other that seemed to undo so much of their previous character development. Without risking spoilers, two characters spend so much of this book at each other's throats that by the time they've supposedly resolved their problems, it feels rushed and insignificant in comparison to the way they've treated each other.
I will say, Harun was one of my favorite characters this book, which shocked me since he got on my nerves in the previous books. I won't say anything else other than he deserves better. I'm actually kind of hoping we get a spin-off book focused on him. Maybe?
Overall
Even though this book was definitely my least favorite in this series, this is still one of my favorite trilogies and I'm still going to recommend it to literally everyone. There are just some things that I desperately wish we had gotten some closure, or at least peace with.
August 15, 2023
This was a satisfying end to the series.
Throughout the series, I became invested in the romance between the Viper, a.k.a. Esha, and the soldier, Kunal. After the unexpected twist in the second book, where Kunal's loyalty was questioned, I wanted to see how their friendship would mend, especially since Esha had always been guarded and rarely let anyone in. Watching her take risks, even risking her fierce reputation for Kunal, only for him to take off without a word to her, added an extra layer of emotion to the strained relationship.
Despite the thrilling twists and turns in the final book, I must admit that the first installment remains my favorite in the series. I’ll give it four stars.
Throughout the series, I became invested in the romance between the Viper, a.k.a. Esha, and the soldier, Kunal. After the unexpected twist in the second book, where Kunal's loyalty was questioned, I wanted to see how their friendship would mend, especially since Esha had always been guarded and rarely let anyone in. Watching her take risks, even risking her fierce reputation for Kunal, only for him to take off without a word to her, added an extra layer of emotion to the strained relationship.
Despite the thrilling twists and turns in the final book, I must admit that the first installment remains my favorite in the series. I’ll give it four stars.
Want to read
October 9, 2020October 08, 2020: THE COVER!!! Ah, and the fact that the colors on it are so bright and align so well with my Instagram theme is something none of you care about but hehe, I really wanted to mention that.
July 07, 2020: When was this title added??? I mean, I LOVE everything that is and would be associated with this trilogy so the title is G R E A T but what about mangoes...why were they not given the spotlight they deserve huh. JK, can't wait to read this!
No, I still haven't read The Archer at Dawn
April 26, 2020: No, of course, I haven't read Archer at Dawn yet and I'm already thinking about the third book. Especially about its title that hasn't been announced yet because I think the best title would be Mangoes at Afternoon.
July 07, 2020: When was this title added??? I mean, I LOVE everything that is and would be associated with this trilogy so the title is G R E A T but what about mangoes...why were they not given the spotlight they deserve huh. JK, can't wait to read this!
No, I still haven't read The Archer at Dawn
April 26, 2020: No, of course, I haven't read Archer at Dawn yet and I'm already thinking about the third book. Especially about its title that hasn't been announced yet because I think the best title would be Mangoes at Afternoon.
June 29, 2021
Noo... Why? 😭😭 I am so disappointed with this book. I'm so sad right now because the first book is one of my favorite books but unfortunately every sequel has been less and less good. 😭
I wanted to love this book. But the whole plot felt absolutely pointless. Everything the characters did was pointless. They were spinning in circles over and over. The ending was soooo anticlimactic and rushed and let a lot of things unanswered.
But what bothered me the most was that I didn't get that amazing angsty dynamic between Kunal and Esha that I fell in love with in the first book. They didn't even had one decent conversation and were behaving as children. 🙄😞 Their relationship in this book made me so angry. The unnecessary love triangle was the cherry on top. And guess what, we didn't even get ONE truly romantic scene between Kunal and Esha where they talk about their feelings. 😑
Unfortunately I really don't have anything positive to say right now. 😭 I'm so sad. Still I give the book 2 🌟 because I did wanted to finish it and didn't dnf-ed it. Also the audiobook was really good.
I wanted to love this book. But the whole plot felt absolutely pointless. Everything the characters did was pointless. They were spinning in circles over and over. The ending was soooo anticlimactic and rushed and let a lot of things unanswered.
But what bothered me the most was that I didn't get that amazing angsty dynamic between Kunal and Esha that I fell in love with in the first book. They didn't even had one decent conversation and were behaving as children. 🙄😞 Their relationship in this book made me so angry. The unnecessary love triangle was the cherry on top. And guess what, we didn't even get ONE truly romantic scene between Kunal and Esha where they talk about their feelings. 😑
Unfortunately I really don't have anything positive to say right now. 😭 I'm so sad. Still I give the book 2 🌟 because I did wanted to finish it and didn't dnf-ed it. Also the audiobook was really good.
August 15, 2021
this was such a satisfying ending and so ANGSTY i loved it
edit: there were some plot holes that i wish would have been closed up but it was so fun to read so i'm not decreasing my rating 🤞🏽
edit: there were some plot holes that i wish would have been closed up but it was so fun to read so i'm not decreasing my rating 🤞🏽
August 21, 2022
5 stars!
Such a good ending to the trilogy - filled with angst, emotion, politics, magic, and adventure.
This has become one of my favourite trilogies and I highly recommend everyone read it.
Such a good ending to the trilogy - filled with angst, emotion, politics, magic, and adventure.
This has become one of my favourite trilogies and I highly recommend everyone read it.
July 21, 2021
Another desi fantasy trilogy comes to an end. I probably don’t consider this series to be one of my all time favorites, but I can’t deny it’s been fun to read so far, so I was pretty interested to see how it was gonna end.
I’m not exactly sure what I’m feeling after finishing the book. I don’t think it’s disappointment, because I didn’t go in with much expectations in the first place. But I guess I still wanted more, and it just ended up being ok. The plot was just interesting enough, pacing quite fast which was probably why I even finished it pretty quickly, and it was definitely aided by a very well narrated audiobook. However, it wasn’t engaging enough and every time I put it down, I wasn’t dying to pick it back up. The events that took place felt repetitive at times - the build up about the reforging of the Janma bond being such an essential part of the first two books - and while it was still the most significant part of this finale, it didn’t feel like such an ominous task anymore, and once the book was over, it just felt very anticlimactic.
The characters also didn’t seem to have left much of a mark on me, and I really missed that intense chemistry between Esha and Kunal from the first book, which is what hooked me onto this series. While the tension between the two was palpable, it also felt annoying at times and the resolution of their issues was too simplistic. The bit of love triangle scare we got also didn’t endear me much. Princess Reha, who was such an imposing but invisible presence in the first two books, couldn’t wow me with her existence this time around. I could obviously empathize with her struggles because she was thrust into a significant role suddenly and her entire life was upended, but we never got to see how she reconciled her feelings with the expectations put upon her, and that was a miss. I think the best part was just the camaraderie between all the characters and how well they worked together, and I’m glad they managed to keep me wanting to read more.
In the end, this finale was not particularly surprising or thrilling, but it was an overall fine conclusion. The audiobook is definitely the way to go because I loved how well the narrator was able to convey the emotions of the characters. And despite whatever gripes I have with the way this story ended, I’m glad to have a YA desi fantasy trilogy inspired by medieval India in existence and I can only hope I’ll get to read wonderful stories by the author in the future.
I’m not exactly sure what I’m feeling after finishing the book. I don’t think it’s disappointment, because I didn’t go in with much expectations in the first place. But I guess I still wanted more, and it just ended up being ok. The plot was just interesting enough, pacing quite fast which was probably why I even finished it pretty quickly, and it was definitely aided by a very well narrated audiobook. However, it wasn’t engaging enough and every time I put it down, I wasn’t dying to pick it back up. The events that took place felt repetitive at times - the build up about the reforging of the Janma bond being such an essential part of the first two books - and while it was still the most significant part of this finale, it didn’t feel like such an ominous task anymore, and once the book was over, it just felt very anticlimactic.
The characters also didn’t seem to have left much of a mark on me, and I really missed that intense chemistry between Esha and Kunal from the first book, which is what hooked me onto this series. While the tension between the two was palpable, it also felt annoying at times and the resolution of their issues was too simplistic. The bit of love triangle scare we got also didn’t endear me much. Princess Reha, who was such an imposing but invisible presence in the first two books, couldn’t wow me with her existence this time around. I could obviously empathize with her struggles because she was thrust into a significant role suddenly and her entire life was upended, but we never got to see how she reconciled her feelings with the expectations put upon her, and that was a miss. I think the best part was just the camaraderie between all the characters and how well they worked together, and I’m glad they managed to keep me wanting to read more.
In the end, this finale was not particularly surprising or thrilling, but it was an overall fine conclusion. The audiobook is definitely the way to go because I loved how well the narrator was able to convey the emotions of the characters. And despite whatever gripes I have with the way this story ended, I’m glad to have a YA desi fantasy trilogy inspired by medieval India in existence and I can only hope I’ll get to read wonderful stories by the author in the future.
July 10, 2021
I can’t believe one of my favorite fantasy trilogies is over--I feel so empty now LOL
The Tiger At Midnight trilogy holds such a special place in my heart as one of my favorite South Asian-inpsired fantasies. Swati Teerdhala’s writing, characters, and world-building is so addicting and it’s honestly such an amazing debut series. The series had such a satisfying end with The Chariot At Dusk, especially after everything that our characters went through in the previous two books.
One of my favorite aspects of Chariot was seeing the dynamic of Kunal & Esha’s relationship shift. The push and pull between the two after the events of Archer was super interesting to follow, and allowed for some really raw moments between the two. Earlier in their lives, both Kunal and Esha were thrown into their roles and this journey without either of them necessarily wanting it, and in Chariot, they finally have a moment to reflect on their journeys and ask themselves what matters to them most.
I also adored the chapters in Kunal’s POV where he was so focused on winning Esha back and the chapters in Esha’s POV where she was trying so hard to forget about Kunal. I feel like you rarely see books in YA in which the female character is the dominating one in the main relationship, so it was really cool to see that played out. And honestly generally, Esha’s character feels like such a breath of fresh air. It’s one of the main reasons why I love this series so much--Esha is unapologetically herself and the Viper 24/7. Seeing a South Asian woman be badass, commanding, and a leader instead of falling into the submissive trope is everything! I truly aspire to be like her.
Some other aspects I loved about Chariot were the action sequences--of which there were many. Seeing Kunal, Harun, and Reha’s powers in action were so cool! Speaking of these characters, I also really loved the found family aspect of this book. Found family is one of the best tropes in fantasy, and these characters all stole my heart. They’re all so unique and loveable in their own ways, even while considering we haven’t seen too much of them in the previous two books. I found myself really liking Laksh’s character (surprising, I know), and Farhan, Bhandu, Arpiya, and Aahal. My favorite character, hands-down, is Alok. All of these characters’ little moments were so funny and added amazing comic relief during the serious scenes. Here were some of my favorite moments:
Anyways, I love this series so much and I’m excited to see upcoming news about Swati’s current WIP. Go read this trilogy if you haven’t already!
The Tiger At Midnight trilogy holds such a special place in my heart as one of my favorite South Asian-inpsired fantasies. Swati Teerdhala’s writing, characters, and world-building is so addicting and it’s honestly such an amazing debut series. The series had such a satisfying end with The Chariot At Dusk, especially after everything that our characters went through in the previous two books.
One of my favorite aspects of Chariot was seeing the dynamic of Kunal & Esha’s relationship shift. The push and pull between the two after the events of Archer was super interesting to follow, and allowed for some really raw moments between the two. Earlier in their lives, both Kunal and Esha were thrown into their roles and this journey without either of them necessarily wanting it, and in Chariot, they finally have a moment to reflect on their journeys and ask themselves what matters to them most.
I also adored the chapters in Kunal’s POV where he was so focused on winning Esha back and the chapters in Esha’s POV where she was trying so hard to forget about Kunal. I feel like you rarely see books in YA in which the female character is the dominating one in the main relationship, so it was really cool to see that played out. And honestly generally, Esha’s character feels like such a breath of fresh air. It’s one of the main reasons why I love this series so much--Esha is unapologetically herself and the Viper 24/7. Seeing a South Asian woman be badass, commanding, and a leader instead of falling into the submissive trope is everything! I truly aspire to be like her.
Some other aspects I loved about Chariot were the action sequences--of which there were many. Seeing Kunal, Harun, and Reha’s powers in action were so cool! Speaking of these characters, I also really loved the found family aspect of this book. Found family is one of the best tropes in fantasy, and these characters all stole my heart. They’re all so unique and loveable in their own ways, even while considering we haven’t seen too much of them in the previous two books. I found myself really liking Laksh’s character (surprising, I know), and Farhan, Bhandu, Arpiya, and Aahal. My favorite character, hands-down, is Alok. All of these characters’ little moments were so funny and added amazing comic relief during the serious scenes. Here were some of my favorite moments:
Anyways, I love this series so much and I’m excited to see upcoming news about Swati’s current WIP. Go read this trilogy if you haven’t already!
June 30, 2021
*possible spoilers*
i’m.. a little disappointed with this ending 😭 idk the pacing was so weird because it was rushed but nothing really happens at the same time? and then everything is so easy? and i feel like there was so much going on that there should’ve been a fourth book to drag things out a little. also , in terms of setting, i feel like they didn’t go anywhere? even when they did? idk that was weird too.
and as much as i love esha and kunal this book for them… it wasn’t it 😩 i’m soooo sad 😩😩 i feel like their romantic arc alone needed to have a fourth book since so much of this book was about esha and harun and esha’s reservations about her feelings that there was nothing left for kunal and esha to develop. i literally thought she and harun were going to be endgame with how much focus their relationship got and how esha acted toward him. (or even a poly endgame which it also seemed to be leaning heavily toward.)
in conclusion, i am: sad and disappointed 😞
i’m.. a little disappointed with this ending 😭 idk the pacing was so weird because it was rushed but nothing really happens at the same time? and then everything is so easy? and i feel like there was so much going on that there should’ve been a fourth book to drag things out a little. also , in terms of setting, i feel like they didn’t go anywhere? even when they did? idk that was weird too.
and as much as i love esha and kunal this book for them… it wasn’t it 😩 i’m soooo sad 😩😩 i feel like their romantic arc alone needed to have a fourth book since so much of this book was about esha and harun and esha’s reservations about her feelings that there was nothing left for kunal and esha to develop. i literally thought she and harun were going to be endgame with how much focus their relationship got and how esha acted toward him. (or even a poly endgame which it also seemed to be leaning heavily toward.)
in conclusion, i am: sad and disappointed 😞
July 24, 2021
This book…was just boring. I honestly couldn’t really tell you what happened except for the very basic plot points. Literally nothing much happened outside of a library and a meeting room, and the romance was non-existent. And the ending was such a letdown after a whole trilogy with these characters. It felt rushed, but in a slow, boring sort of way. Idk. I gave 5 stars to the first two books, but I think this third book could have been easily absorbed into the second book to make it a duology.
Rather disappointing, but at least the hardback is gorgeous on my shelf with the other two books.
Rather disappointing, but at least the hardback is gorgeous on my shelf with the other two books.
August 11, 2021
It was a nice reading, this last book is full of angst and surprises. I really enjoy it.
October 22, 2021
The Chariot at Dusk is a heart stopping finale. Combining the action from The Tiger at Midnight with the more introspective questions from The Archer at Dawn, this finale is a great ending. My question at the beginning was wondering if love could prevail. But as I kept reading, I realized The Chariot at Dusk is more about forgiveness and moving forwards. With choices that leave us hollow, how do we deal with the consequences of our actions?
I will say that the pacing felt a bit hasty towards the end and I had no idea if everything was going to be wrapped up. It was, it just felt like the first half was much slower than the last third. It's almost like the first half ended up recounting a lot of the previous book, which I needed, but still. It meant that the action that propelled ended up feeling sudden. That being said, the reason I greatly enjoyed The Chariot at Dusk was more about the exploration of forgiveness.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
I will say that the pacing felt a bit hasty towards the end and I had no idea if everything was going to be wrapped up. It was, it just felt like the first half was much slower than the last third. It's almost like the first half ended up recounting a lot of the previous book, which I needed, but still. It meant that the action that propelled ended up feeling sudden. That being said, the reason I greatly enjoyed The Chariot at Dusk was more about the exploration of forgiveness.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
August 23, 2021
i have no idea what i just read
wait but actually cannot remember a single thing about what i just read except that esha was annoying about the love triangle and dramatic about forgiving kunal, the ending felt rushed, and there were a lot of unanswered details.
feeling meh and disappointed about the ending bc for the other two books the ending wrapped everything up beautifully and had great climaxes but this one just did not do it to em
wait but actually cannot remember a single thing about what i just read except that esha was annoying about the love triangle and dramatic about forgiving kunal, the ending felt rushed, and there were a lot of unanswered details.
feeling meh and disappointed about the ending bc for the other two books the ending wrapped everything up beautifully and had great climaxes but this one just did not do it to em
July 31, 2021
4.5 ⭐️ this book series RUINED ME, a win for ya fantasy.
(ignore my sh*t grammar, it’s late)
dare i say the best pacing in a ya fantasy— period. One of the few ya fantasy books that actually takes the time to develop a relationship between the two protagonists where it doesn’t seem insta-lovey and does not take anything away from the plot.
Both characters have very different moral compasses and I appreciated how the story really explored how they could still come together, (throughout ALL 3 BOOKS) which again is rare in ya fantasy.
The world-building: digestABLE!!! NO RE READING OR HOMEWORK NECESSARY, the magic is so beautiful you’re just immersed in it from the jump i was a bit upset at the end because it was a little anti-climatic, but most ya books take a simplistic approach to solving very nuanced issues.
this book has me so down bad i wrote a whole review and am debating whether or not i should return it to the library.
honestly if you are a fan of we hunt the flame but need something more fast paced READ TIGER!! if you hate it i’ll find a way to pay you back ♥️♥️
good intro if you want to delve into more political fantasy-esque books
(ignore my sh*t grammar, it’s late)
dare i say the best pacing in a ya fantasy— period. One of the few ya fantasy books that actually takes the time to develop a relationship between the two protagonists where it doesn’t seem insta-lovey and does not take anything away from the plot.
Both characters have very different moral compasses and I appreciated how the story really explored how they could still come together, (throughout ALL 3 BOOKS) which again is rare in ya fantasy.
The world-building: digestABLE!!! NO RE READING OR HOMEWORK NECESSARY, the magic is so beautiful you’re just immersed in it from the jump i was a bit upset at the end because it was a little anti-climatic, but most ya books take a simplistic approach to solving very nuanced issues.
this book has me so down bad i wrote a whole review and am debating whether or not i should return it to the library.
honestly if you are a fan of we hunt the flame but need something more fast paced READ TIGER!! if you hate it i’ll find a way to pay you back ♥️♥️
good intro if you want to delve into more political fantasy-esque books
July 9, 2021
Conflicted on this one. I liked the overall story, but I felt like Esha and Kunal's feud went on for far too long and was resolved too quickly. Esha was almost insufferable for me most of the book; I just wanted to shake sense into her.
I found the love triangle annoying in this installment too. Previously, it hadn't bothered me! But it just felt unnecessary here, and I think Harun deserves better. He really grew on my over the course of the series.
I know this review sounds negative, but I really did enjoy the book and this series is going into my top ten favorites. I will definitely read anything else Swati writes, because her ability to worldbuild and make you care about the characters is top notch!
I found the love triangle annoying in this installment too. Previously, it hadn't bothered me! But it just felt unnecessary here, and I think Harun deserves better. He really grew on my over the course of the series.
I know this review sounds negative, but I really did enjoy the book and this series is going into my top ten favorites. I will definitely read anything else Swati writes, because her ability to worldbuild and make you care about the characters is top notch!
June 26, 2021
See my full review here: https://www.yabookscentral.com/yafict...
THE CHARIOT AT DUSK is a solid conclusion to an engaging YA fantasy series. Esha is holding the country together by posing as Reha, the lost queen, while her people search for her and Kunal. She is ruling as best she knows how, but it is difficult when the land is still suffering from the loss of magic. Kunal and Reha are in a rush to get to the temple to try to fix the janma bond before it is too late. In the decade since the renewal had been performed correctly, the land is crumbling.
When they arrive, they learn that they are already too late, and the race is now on to restore the bond before the Yavar, led by Yimini, beat them to it and swing the scales to the Southern lands. At the same time, Vardaan has gathered his own troops and mercenaries to retake the kingdom. It seems as if they are fighting from all sides, all while trying to decipher the old scrolls and messages that may lead them to being able to fix the janma bond.
What I loved: This series is truly unique, and I love the use of magic as it relates to the land and the manifestation of shifter powers in the royal lines. As the Viper, Esha has been fighting for so long, and now that she is close to having what she wanted, she must redefine who she is and who she needs to be. The romances she has really evolve here, and the reader gets closure on her choices and the love triangle that appeared. I really appreciated the character growth in this final book for all of the main characters, including Reha, Esha, Harun, and Kunal. They have really come into their own, and the final resolution allows these evolutions to shine.
The plot here was really intriguing with a bit of a mythology/archeological race to figure out where the artifacts have been hidden and the place in which the ceremony would need to be performed to restore the janma bond. The world-building in this series has been really fantastic, and this final book develops the mythology even more. The compelling characters and intricately constructed world really make this series and final book shine. The ending was also satisfying, and fans of the trilogy will enjoy the way everything evolved and the way that it ended, keeping in mind the themes of revenge, oppression, right to rule, and justice that have been central to the series.
Final verdict: Atmospheric, complex, and satisfying, THE CHARIOT AT DUSK is a well-constructed conclusion to an engaging YA fantasy trilogy. Highly recommend this series to fans of AN EMBER IN THE ASHES, THE REMNANT CHRONICLES, and WE HUNT THE FLAME.
Please note that I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
THE CHARIOT AT DUSK is a solid conclusion to an engaging YA fantasy series. Esha is holding the country together by posing as Reha, the lost queen, while her people search for her and Kunal. She is ruling as best she knows how, but it is difficult when the land is still suffering from the loss of magic. Kunal and Reha are in a rush to get to the temple to try to fix the janma bond before it is too late. In the decade since the renewal had been performed correctly, the land is crumbling.
When they arrive, they learn that they are already too late, and the race is now on to restore the bond before the Yavar, led by Yimini, beat them to it and swing the scales to the Southern lands. At the same time, Vardaan has gathered his own troops and mercenaries to retake the kingdom. It seems as if they are fighting from all sides, all while trying to decipher the old scrolls and messages that may lead them to being able to fix the janma bond.
What I loved: This series is truly unique, and I love the use of magic as it relates to the land and the manifestation of shifter powers in the royal lines. As the Viper, Esha has been fighting for so long, and now that she is close to having what she wanted, she must redefine who she is and who she needs to be. The romances she has really evolve here, and the reader gets closure on her choices and the love triangle that appeared. I really appreciated the character growth in this final book for all of the main characters, including Reha, Esha, Harun, and Kunal. They have really come into their own, and the final resolution allows these evolutions to shine.
The plot here was really intriguing with a bit of a mythology/archeological race to figure out where the artifacts have been hidden and the place in which the ceremony would need to be performed to restore the janma bond. The world-building in this series has been really fantastic, and this final book develops the mythology even more. The compelling characters and intricately constructed world really make this series and final book shine. The ending was also satisfying, and fans of the trilogy will enjoy the way everything evolved and the way that it ended, keeping in mind the themes of revenge, oppression, right to rule, and justice that have been central to the series.
Final verdict: Atmospheric, complex, and satisfying, THE CHARIOT AT DUSK is a well-constructed conclusion to an engaging YA fantasy trilogy. Highly recommend this series to fans of AN EMBER IN THE ASHES, THE REMNANT CHRONICLES, and WE HUNT THE FLAME.
Please note that I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 25, 2021
"A good businessperson must always know where the power lay in a a room, and if he didn't, it was his duty to figure it out"
"She hated hearing his name. Hated what it did to her"
"The sun and the moon waited for no mortal"
We never truly figure out how much we grow fond to some characters and some stories until the very end, when it's all over and we have to say goodbye.
Reading this trilogy has been an amazing experience I'll never forget and , at the same time, I wish I could live again for the first time.
This last book has been a triumph of actions and fantasy while magic was surrounding every choice and every gesture made by our protagonists.
But apart from this, the story has also left a clear message that sometimes change is not a bad thing.
We see how much , despite what is perceived as to be betrayal, the characters try and keep on trying to prove that their loyalties never wavered ... not even their feelings.
"Love didn't disappear. It faded away, but the edges of it would always remain"
"Something broken wasn't easily put back together"
"Friends? She was an idiot. They could never be just friends"
Acceptance and forgiveness need time but when forced to face a common enemy even those are pushed aside to work together and find a balance to restore happiness and safety for a greater good.
Choices are made and while each and every character has to fight for their future, they're also fighting for the people they love, to gain their trust back... they're not giving up.
Though what's most important of all is that , with them, we figure out that labels are useless. They don't define neither who we are nor who we can be. We can be everything or nothing at all. Many things at the same time or choose to be just one thing. At the end the truth is that we are all human and the mistakes we make are not something to run from but to embrace and remember in order to learn how to do better ... with the help of the people we love.
"Heroes die alone. We work as a team"
"Fear was a living thing, shifting and changing to fit its host"
"She had forgotten how good she was at lying to herself"
"The Viper was smart, cunning, wily. But Esha? Esha was only human"
"She hated hearing his name. Hated what it did to her"
"The sun and the moon waited for no mortal"
We never truly figure out how much we grow fond to some characters and some stories until the very end, when it's all over and we have to say goodbye.
Reading this trilogy has been an amazing experience I'll never forget and , at the same time, I wish I could live again for the first time.
This last book has been a triumph of actions and fantasy while magic was surrounding every choice and every gesture made by our protagonists.
But apart from this, the story has also left a clear message that sometimes change is not a bad thing.
We see how much , despite what is perceived as to be betrayal, the characters try and keep on trying to prove that their loyalties never wavered ... not even their feelings.
"Love didn't disappear. It faded away, but the edges of it would always remain"
"Something broken wasn't easily put back together"
"Friends? She was an idiot. They could never be just friends"
Acceptance and forgiveness need time but when forced to face a common enemy even those are pushed aside to work together and find a balance to restore happiness and safety for a greater good.
Choices are made and while each and every character has to fight for their future, they're also fighting for the people they love, to gain their trust back... they're not giving up.
Though what's most important of all is that , with them, we figure out that labels are useless. They don't define neither who we are nor who we can be. We can be everything or nothing at all. Many things at the same time or choose to be just one thing. At the end the truth is that we are all human and the mistakes we make are not something to run from but to embrace and remember in order to learn how to do better ... with the help of the people we love.
"Heroes die alone. We work as a team"
"Fear was a living thing, shifting and changing to fit its host"
"She had forgotten how good she was at lying to herself"
"The Viper was smart, cunning, wily. But Esha? Esha was only human"
September 5, 2021
I'm a bit disappointed by this series. I absolutely loved the first book- it was action packed and I loved the chemistry between Kunal and Esha. However, I had issues with the second book's slow pacing and lack of chemistry between the characters and I had the same feelings for the third one. There was way too much introduction? I'm not really sure how to describe it, but it was more like build up rather than actual plot. It didn't really feel like a conclusion novel for the trilogy.
As for the characters, I was again really disappointed with Kunal/Esha's chemistry. The majority of the book was Esha being super upset and telling herself that she hates him and there were a bunch of super repetitive scenes where when he tried to talk to her she'd just shut him down, but then all of a sudden they were good towards the end? It didn't really make sense to me.
Overall, I only really liked the first book in the trilogy, but I really appreciate it for being one of the only Indian inspired YA fantasy books I've heard of/ read. Love to see Indian rep in YA and hope to read more in the future.
As for the characters, I was again really disappointed with Kunal/Esha's chemistry. The majority of the book was Esha being super upset and telling herself that she hates him and there were a bunch of super repetitive scenes where when he tried to talk to her she'd just shut him down, but then all of a sudden they were good towards the end? It didn't really make sense to me.
Overall, I only really liked the first book in the trilogy, but I really appreciate it for being one of the only Indian inspired YA fantasy books I've heard of/ read. Love to see Indian rep in YA and hope to read more in the future.
May 16, 2022
The Chariot at Dusk
.
• shapeshifters
• ancient artifacts
• enchanted country
• enemies to lovers
.
Die Geschichte startet spannend und ich bin wieder sehr leicht reingekommen. Was mich jedoch ein bisschen gestört hat, war das Hin und Her zwischen Kunal und Esha - und diesmal gingen die Zweifel wirklich hauptsächlich von Esha aus. Ich konnte einfach nicht verstehen, wieso hier nicht früher ein Schlussstrich gezogen wurde😅 Das hätte meiner Meinung nach einfacher gestaltet werden können, - das ging mir schon etwas auf die Nerven. Nichtsdestotrotz bin ich zufrieden, wie die Geschichte zu Ende gegangen ist. Ein wirklich schöner, hoffnungsvoller Abschluss dieser Trilogie🥰
.
The start of the story is exciting and I easily could continue reading. But something that really annoyed me in this book, has been the back and forth between Esha and Kunal - here there have been mainly Eshas' doubts. But after all they've been through I really couldn't understand her distrust...I think this plotline has been dragged on for too long, and in my opinion it was so annoying😅 Nethertheless I like how the story ended. It's a suitable ending, also hopeful🥰
.
3/5⭐
.
• shapeshifters
• ancient artifacts
• enchanted country
• enemies to lovers
.
Die Geschichte startet spannend und ich bin wieder sehr leicht reingekommen. Was mich jedoch ein bisschen gestört hat, war das Hin und Her zwischen Kunal und Esha - und diesmal gingen die Zweifel wirklich hauptsächlich von Esha aus. Ich konnte einfach nicht verstehen, wieso hier nicht früher ein Schlussstrich gezogen wurde😅 Das hätte meiner Meinung nach einfacher gestaltet werden können, - das ging mir schon etwas auf die Nerven. Nichtsdestotrotz bin ich zufrieden, wie die Geschichte zu Ende gegangen ist. Ein wirklich schöner, hoffnungsvoller Abschluss dieser Trilogie🥰
.
The start of the story is exciting and I easily could continue reading. But something that really annoyed me in this book, has been the back and forth between Esha and Kunal - here there have been mainly Eshas' doubts. But after all they've been through I really couldn't understand her distrust...I think this plotline has been dragged on for too long, and in my opinion it was so annoying😅 Nethertheless I like how the story ended. It's a suitable ending, also hopeful🥰
.
3/5⭐
September 7, 2022
This trilogy started off with a bang, full of magic, mystery, adventure, romance, you name it. The pace was incredibly exciting and the characters mystical. Loved it.
The second book took a little more energy and concentration to get through making it seem a bit of a challenge due to it’s monotonous stretch . There were some exciting bits though, so I am glad I stuck to it. I think the narrator did a marvellous job in holding my interest with her ever so colourful voice.
The third book took a bit of time to pick up but pick up it did. The compelling characters had me hooked. It was quick, action packed, romantic and character driven. Once again the author will have you in the palm of her hands. Her descriptions will make you stop and smell the roses so to speak.
All throughout her trilogy she describes her scenery in such detail, providing lots of information about this exciting ancient world.
I really enjoyed the audio of this trilogy and look forward to reading more books by this author and narrator.
The second book took a little more energy and concentration to get through making it seem a bit of a challenge due to it’s monotonous stretch . There were some exciting bits though, so I am glad I stuck to it. I think the narrator did a marvellous job in holding my interest with her ever so colourful voice.
The third book took a bit of time to pick up but pick up it did. The compelling characters had me hooked. It was quick, action packed, romantic and character driven. Once again the author will have you in the palm of her hands. Her descriptions will make you stop and smell the roses so to speak.
All throughout her trilogy she describes her scenery in such detail, providing lots of information about this exciting ancient world.
I really enjoyed the audio of this trilogy and look forward to reading more books by this author and narrator.
December 5, 2021
This book was okay. I still liked the same things from the previous books, the characters, the story, the funny moments. But the thing that the second and first book have is a straight line with the plot, every character there was on a mission, they had something to do and after that they did something different, in other words, they moved forward. The plot here is to fix the bond with the gods and they try and fail so many times that it takes the whole book and more than 4 attempts for them to move forward and even then they manage to do something wrong. That is the whole book. The only thing that helps this book be okay is the internal fights the main characters have and the intention on healing their relationship -I was angry with Esha for being here and there with the guys but the good thing is that she made the right choice- so yes, I sort of enjoy the book but it was a reading to pass the time, sadly, it wasn't great.
December 24, 2022
4 Stars ✨
“Every one of us has a story, and each of our stories is a treasure.”
Satisfying ending to this trilogy. I really enjoyed it. Esha was so indecisive in this one , it made me wanna jump in and shake her, but at the same time her character was relatable. I loved the way the author wrote her emotional struggle , and because of her past, she didn’t want to make the wrong choice. She always knew the right choice, but because of fear, and truths presented to her she refused to admit it.
Kunal and Harun were stellar and even though the series included a sort of love triangle it was done perfectly in my opinion and drama free. One of my favorite parts of this series was the emphasis that no one was perfect- all had a past and the acceptance and forgiveness that was shown between multiple characters from different sides was fantastic. Will definitely miss this world and it’s setting.
“Every one of us has a story, and each of our stories is a treasure.”
Satisfying ending to this trilogy. I really enjoyed it. Esha was so indecisive in this one , it made me wanna jump in and shake her, but at the same time her character was relatable. I loved the way the author wrote her emotional struggle , and because of her past, she didn’t want to make the wrong choice. She always knew the right choice, but because of fear, and truths presented to her she refused to admit it.
Kunal and Harun were stellar and even though the series included a sort of love triangle it was done perfectly in my opinion and drama free. One of my favorite parts of this series was the emphasis that no one was perfect- all had a past and the acceptance and forgiveness that was shown between multiple characters from different sides was fantastic. Will definitely miss this world and it’s setting.
November 1, 2025
Better than the second but still greatly suffers from a brilliant and intense story being pushed to the side by pointless love triangles and awkwardly inserted romantic scenes that only act to take away from the rest of the story while stripping the characters of any semblance of personalities.
Want to read
October 16, 2020This cover is gorgeous!!!!
July 11, 2021
I enjoyed the surprising and generous ending to this trilogy.
July 23, 2021
*Source* Library
*Rating* 4.0
*Genre* Young Adult / Fantasy
*Thoughts*
The Chariot at Dusk, by author Swati Teerdhala, is the third and final installment in the authors Tiger at Midnight trilogy. Drawing inspiration from ancient Indian history and Hindu mythology, Teerdhala creates a fresh, layered world that is vivid and compelling. The destroyed janma bond, an essential element of the land that was broken by the division of the regions during the violence, demonstrates how the health of the land is intricately related to the actions of its people. Readers loved the cat-and-mouse game of Book One with Kunal attempting to capture Esha.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Rating* 4.0
*Genre* Young Adult / Fantasy
*Thoughts*
The Chariot at Dusk, by author Swati Teerdhala, is the third and final installment in the authors Tiger at Midnight trilogy. Drawing inspiration from ancient Indian history and Hindu mythology, Teerdhala creates a fresh, layered world that is vivid and compelling. The destroyed janma bond, an essential element of the land that was broken by the division of the regions during the violence, demonstrates how the health of the land is intricately related to the actions of its people. Readers loved the cat-and-mouse game of Book One with Kunal attempting to capture Esha.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
March 14, 2022
3.5, rounded up
January 7, 2023
Esha and Kunal stress me ooouuuut.
I just want them to be happy.
Stop being stubborn!!!>!>!!
ahhh
I just want them to be happy.
Stop being stubborn!!!>!>!!
ahhh
May 24, 2023
Super fun ending to a very fun series. Gods, ancient temples, poring through dusty scrolls, betrayal, shapeshifting, such a fun trilogy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews