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Raavana's Daughter: Asian Mythology Novella with a Twist
Nominated for both the Gratiaen Prize and the State Literary Awards!
Are you tired of spending money on an entire series? Try this stand alone!
Mermaids, Demons, Gods... It is 8000 years B.C. Sita Devi, the wife of Lord Rama has been abducted by the Demon King Raavana. Hanuman, the Ape hero, is tasked with building a bridge to facilitate the invasion of Lanka. The expedition is however brought to a halt by the workings of the Mer-People who inhabit the Indian Ocean. Will Hanuman be able to overcome their enchantments and complete his task? Who is the mysterious Mer-Queen? What part has she to play in this epic war? Is all fair in love and war?
The Ramayana is a Hindu Epic as old and as famous as Homer's Odyssey. However, it is not as well retold in Western Literature. Taking inspiration from the Ramakien the Thai version of the Hindu tale this story will take you into the heart of the epic conflict.... If you are a lover of mythology and fantasy - then this is for YOU!
***FREE on Kindle Unlimited and Prime Reading***
*** Receive the Kindle Edition FREE when you purchase the Paperback***
***Includes Places to Visit in Sri Lanka, linked to the Myth***
GOODREADS REVIEW (James Maxstadt - Author)
Raavana's Daughter is, according to the author, inspired by the Ramakien, the Thai version of the Ramayana. It's an ancient story that I have only a passing familiarity with, if that. This short book makes me want to know more about it.The story is very well written, and reads like a myth, but with modern, updated language. It is very, very well done. Although short, it is more than worth your time to pick it up and give it a read. Even though it's for a YA audience, I can't imagine anyone who enjoys fantasy or mythology not liking it.
Are you tired of spending money on an entire series? Try this stand alone!
Mermaids, Demons, Gods... It is 8000 years B.C. Sita Devi, the wife of Lord Rama has been abducted by the Demon King Raavana. Hanuman, the Ape hero, is tasked with building a bridge to facilitate the invasion of Lanka. The expedition is however brought to a halt by the workings of the Mer-People who inhabit the Indian Ocean. Will Hanuman be able to overcome their enchantments and complete his task? Who is the mysterious Mer-Queen? What part has she to play in this epic war? Is all fair in love and war?
The Ramayana is a Hindu Epic as old and as famous as Homer's Odyssey. However, it is not as well retold in Western Literature. Taking inspiration from the Ramakien the Thai version of the Hindu tale this story will take you into the heart of the epic conflict.... If you are a lover of mythology and fantasy - then this is for YOU!
***FREE on Kindle Unlimited and Prime Reading***
*** Receive the Kindle Edition FREE when you purchase the Paperback***
***Includes Places to Visit in Sri Lanka, linked to the Myth***
GOODREADS REVIEW (James Maxstadt - Author)
Raavana's Daughter is, according to the author, inspired by the Ramakien, the Thai version of the Ramayana. It's an ancient story that I have only a passing familiarity with, if that. This short book makes me want to know more about it.The story is very well written, and reads like a myth, but with modern, updated language. It is very, very well done. Although short, it is more than worth your time to pick it up and give it a read. Even though it's for a YA audience, I can't imagine anyone who enjoys fantasy or mythology not liking it.
84 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2019
3 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 20, 2019
As many of you might well know about the Hindu mythological story of Ramayana. When Sita, wife of Lord Rama was abducted by Raavana. This book has depicted Ramayana with a new perspective, rather I would say it gives a modern touch as this story has few scientific roles such as a chief engineer or commander in chief etc given to our mythological characters… I would not actually like to reveal much about this book.
There is one mysterious character in this story known as Mer-Queen, whos only intension was to blight the Ram-Setu (Bridge built by Hanuman and his friends from south pole of India to Sri Lanka)
Why would anyone try to demolish Lord Rama’s bridge?
Introduction of this mysterious queen brings a major twist in this story
Illustration used in these books are quite different than one could think
According to me, the story of Mer-Queen needs more space in this book
Overall an average read
There is one mysterious character in this story known as Mer-Queen, whos only intension was to blight the Ram-Setu (Bridge built by Hanuman and his friends from south pole of India to Sri Lanka)
Why would anyone try to demolish Lord Rama’s bridge?
Introduction of this mysterious queen brings a major twist in this story
Illustration used in these books are quite different than one could think
According to me, the story of Mer-Queen needs more space in this book
Overall an average read
February 22, 2019
3.5 stars- I was given a taste of such an intriguing world, only to have the spoon ripped away so quickly. I first was introduced to this tale as a little girl, through the movie The Little Princess, so I was excited to hear of the ape god that agreed to help Lord Rama. The writing is good, my only issue is that it isn't long enough. I don't know if the author's intention is to produce a collection of tales, but I would welcome more. The potential for great world building, and character development is there. Mythology has given her a wonderful canvas to paint upon. Also, do not be intimidated by the names, it was very easy to understand. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
April 22, 2019
Some of my favorite books ever are The Illiad and Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan. The highflying action, the interesting and often creepy monsters, and the over the top but also human characters speak to me. Nadishka Aloysius captured all of this in her retelling of the Ramakien, Raavana’s Daughter. Beautifully descriptive and fast-paced, we follow Hanuman as he is tasked with saving Sita Devi (Rama’s wife) from the evil clutches of the Demon King. But like any good myth, the journey is fraught with danger. Raavana’s Daughter is perfect for any Rick Riordan or mythology fans out there and I look forward to seeing more stories from a Hindu perspective!
March 6, 2019
I really enjoyed this short little read. The writing is well done and very descriptive, giving a good insight into the world building. The characters were good and the story moved along at a nice pace. Well worth a read.
November 14, 2021
Sometimes back, I participated in a giveaway hosted by Nadishka Aloysius. The conditions were to read this book and post a review and you will have a chance of winning the paperback. There was a deadline. But, life happened and I couldn't participate as planned. So, today, I decided to give it a try.
As Sri Lankans, we've heard of Ramayana since childhood. Ramayana was a compulsory text in my school. The version we studied was written in a simple language. But when we became a little older, another teacher told us that there are so many retellings of Ramayana. She told us the retelling, which was from Ravana's perspective. That was my first experience in multiple retellings of the same story. Raavana's Daughter is inspired by Ramakien, the Thai version of the Ramayana.
I don't consider myself as a fantasy person. To be honest, fantasy is not one of my go-to genres. That doesn't mean that I won't enjoy a good fantasy. But I was a bit skeptical in the beginning because this book was about a very well known story.
But, I was pleasently surprised. It was very well written. The author has created a good atmosphere. The characters blended well with each other, and the story build up was quite good. I enjoyed the choice of words and the little poems at the end of some chapters. The illustrations are not something you see everyday, but I liked them and the added to the story.
The only disappointment was that it ended so abruptly. I think, this story has the potential to be written into a full length fantasy novel, if not a series. I wish to read more by the author in the future as this is my first book by her. Recommend to everyone who needs a quick fantasy fix.
As Sri Lankans, we've heard of Ramayana since childhood. Ramayana was a compulsory text in my school. The version we studied was written in a simple language. But when we became a little older, another teacher told us that there are so many retellings of Ramayana. She told us the retelling, which was from Ravana's perspective. That was my first experience in multiple retellings of the same story. Raavana's Daughter is inspired by Ramakien, the Thai version of the Ramayana.
I don't consider myself as a fantasy person. To be honest, fantasy is not one of my go-to genres. That doesn't mean that I won't enjoy a good fantasy. But I was a bit skeptical in the beginning because this book was about a very well known story.
But, I was pleasently surprised. It was very well written. The author has created a good atmosphere. The characters blended well with each other, and the story build up was quite good. I enjoyed the choice of words and the little poems at the end of some chapters. The illustrations are not something you see everyday, but I liked them and the added to the story.
The only disappointment was that it ended so abruptly. I think, this story has the potential to be written into a full length fantasy novel, if not a series. I wish to read more by the author in the future as this is my first book by her. Recommend to everyone who needs a quick fantasy fix.
October 18, 2018
'Raavana's Daughter' is the author's imaginative retelling of a little snippet of the Indian epic poem 'Ramayana'.
Obviously not the entire epic poem, we're talking a historical text that is longer than Homer's Odyssey, but an embellished juicy nugget from the Thai version of the folklore. Specifically, when Hanuman (General of the Ape people) gets entranced by Suvaana during his task to create a bridge that would connect South India and Sri Lanka to rescue Lord Rama's wife.
The story is short and to the point, adventurous, full of back stories, legends, even historical tidbits that means any race or nationality will understand. It was well written and as mentioned in another review, reminiscent of the small reading chapters you had in your language arts text books--Just enough to entice the reader, but doesn't actually give you the full story, much character development or an ending.
For readers who favor dipping their toes in myths and folklore of Gods, apes, and mermaids, this is a quick and enticing find.
Obviously not the entire epic poem, we're talking a historical text that is longer than Homer's Odyssey, but an embellished juicy nugget from the Thai version of the folklore. Specifically, when Hanuman (General of the Ape people) gets entranced by Suvaana during his task to create a bridge that would connect South India and Sri Lanka to rescue Lord Rama's wife.
The story is short and to the point, adventurous, full of back stories, legends, even historical tidbits that means any race or nationality will understand. It was well written and as mentioned in another review, reminiscent of the small reading chapters you had in your language arts text books--Just enough to entice the reader, but doesn't actually give you the full story, much character development or an ending.
For readers who favor dipping their toes in myths and folklore of Gods, apes, and mermaids, this is a quick and enticing find.
February 15, 2019
I haven't had much exposure to Eastern Mythology. Practically none growing up, so as an adult I only found stuff that either expected you to have grown up with it, or so simplified that it was a waste of time.
So I was pleasantly surprised to find that Raavana's Daughter was a book where if I knew more about Eastern Mythology I would probably have a richer experience, but it was not necessary. It was also written at an adult level.
This made it a very good read, with the emphasis firmly on the story. The gods, temples, and races provided a rich and fascinating backdrop to the story behind the Hanuman and Suvaana having to trust each other and put aside generations of tensions between their races in order to work toward the greater good.
Overall I found it a good story with tantalizing glimpses at Eastern Mythology. A great read for anyone interested in having an entertaining time while learning a little about a different culture.
So I was pleasantly surprised to find that Raavana's Daughter was a book where if I knew more about Eastern Mythology I would probably have a richer experience, but it was not necessary. It was also written at an adult level.
This made it a very good read, with the emphasis firmly on the story. The gods, temples, and races provided a rich and fascinating backdrop to the story behind the Hanuman and Suvaana having to trust each other and put aside generations of tensions between their races in order to work toward the greater good.
Overall I found it a good story with tantalizing glimpses at Eastern Mythology. A great read for anyone interested in having an entertaining time while learning a little about a different culture.
October 24, 2018
Raavana’s Daughter is, according to the author, inspired by the Ramakien, the Thai version of the Ramayana. It’s an ancient story that I have only a passing familiarity with, if that. This short book makes me want to know more about it.
The story is very well written, and reads like a myth, but with modern, updated language. It is very, very well done.
Although short, it is more than worth your time to pick it up and give it a read. Even though it’s for a YA audience, I can’t imagine anyone who enjoys fantasy or mythology not liking it.
The story is very well written, and reads like a myth, but with modern, updated language. It is very, very well done.
Although short, it is more than worth your time to pick it up and give it a read. Even though it’s for a YA audience, I can’t imagine anyone who enjoys fantasy or mythology not liking it.
March 13, 2019
A lovely and all too short retelling of a poem I was unfamiliar with, but am now intrigued by. Very well-written and compelling, this story is perfect for anyone who loves mythology and mythological creatures. A very quick read that I wished was longer, especially with that ending! I would definitely read more by this author, and look forward to the continuation of this story - which I hope is forthcoming!
October 14, 2018
The author delivers her version of a tale based on South Asian mythology in a well written short story. I constantly found myself stopping to admire the choice of words and writing style. Definitely a nice quick read, perhaps a bit rushed but still a good read. Reminded me of the few short stories we enjoyed in the English Literature curriculum at school more than a decade ago.
Read
March 5, 2019Overall
This follows the story of Hanuman, an Apeman, who is a general of Lord Rama's army. He has some interesting visions and adventures trying to get across the water to the land in order to defeat the Demon King Raavana. With fantastical scenes and vivid imagery, this story will sweep you up in its tale. From Gods to Mermaids, follow Hanuman on what I hope is the first installment of a serious of Asian Mythology stories. It can be predictable but that doesn't detract from the overall story. The dialogue can be stilted in places but overall the writing is enjoyable. If only the ending wouldn't have been so abrupt! It just means there better be more in the future!
Rating
4 Stars
A fantastical tale that feels like a fairy-tale that draws you in to the point that the abrupt ending is disappointing!
This is a voluntary review. More reviews at creatingworldswithwords.wordpress.com.
This follows the story of Hanuman, an Apeman, who is a general of Lord Rama's army. He has some interesting visions and adventures trying to get across the water to the land in order to defeat the Demon King Raavana. With fantastical scenes and vivid imagery, this story will sweep you up in its tale. From Gods to Mermaids, follow Hanuman on what I hope is the first installment of a serious of Asian Mythology stories. It can be predictable but that doesn't detract from the overall story. The dialogue can be stilted in places but overall the writing is enjoyable. If only the ending wouldn't have been so abrupt! It just means there better be more in the future!
Rating
4 Stars
A fantastical tale that feels like a fairy-tale that draws you in to the point that the abrupt ending is disappointing!
This is a voluntary review. More reviews at creatingworldswithwords.wordpress.com.
May 30, 2019
This is an interesting addition to the traditional tale. I have been a teacher of world religions for over twenty years and never before run into the link between the Ramayana and Mer-peoples.
I found Aloysius' storytelling enjoyable, and the poetic chapter endings nice enhancements. The brevity of the tale made for an easy read, but I that found its rapid conclusion left wanted just a little more detail.
All in all it was a "Good Read" and a nice addition to the Mer-fantasy and Mythology genres.
I found Aloysius' storytelling enjoyable, and the poetic chapter endings nice enhancements. The brevity of the tale made for an easy read, but I that found its rapid conclusion left wanted just a little more detail.
All in all it was a "Good Read" and a nice addition to the Mer-fantasy and Mythology genres.
February 2, 2020
Raavana’s daughter is a story of a familiar piece of history/folklore (depending on your own view of it) that I had not heard before.
It is simple to read, and quick, so you can possibly do it in one sitting.
The details and imagery that it creates helps you to get into the world and see it as you read the story. To immerse yourself in the moment.
It would a great way for young adult and middle-grade readers to get acquainted with this ancient tale. And for the older readers, who have not yet come into the tales Rama and Raavana.
Then again, even if you have heard of the stories, it is possible that you have not heard of this one.
It is simple to read, and quick, so you can possibly do it in one sitting.
The details and imagery that it creates helps you to get into the world and see it as you read the story. To immerse yourself in the moment.
It would a great way for young adult and middle-grade readers to get acquainted with this ancient tale. And for the older readers, who have not yet come into the tales Rama and Raavana.
Then again, even if you have heard of the stories, it is possible that you have not heard of this one.
February 27, 2019
I received this book as part of LibraryThing Member Giveaway. Of late, I have been surrounded by books on mythological fiction. I must admit, I have enjoyed them a lot. My reading has exposed me to characters and events that I have never known. The finer nuances of many characters that I came across made me rethink about them. I have been reading mostly mythological fiction based on characters from Ramayana. Having covered Sita, Mandodari, Meenakshi(Surpanakha), Urmila, Karna's wife, Kaikeyi, the list goes on. So when I came across the title of the book, I was instantaneously hooked. It caught my imagination as to what would be the story behind Raavana's Daughter.
The author renders her version of Ramakien, the Thai version of the Hindu epic. I had expected this to be a fully fledged novel, but was disappointed to see that it's a quick dip, a short novel. The story begins with Hanuman pondering over his decision to help Ram. Unlike Ramayana, Hanuman here is not fully supportive of Ram's quest. Hanuman sees the disaster in the wake of the war and wishes not to be a part of it. But it's his respect and devotion for Ram that brings him to assist Ram and bring back Sita. Hanuman is assisted by the vanara army headed by him along with Nala and Neela. tHe other two leader are sceptical about building a bridge from Pamban island to Lanka. They perceive that it would cost a lot of destruction to natural resources.
Deep in thoughts, Hanuman sees a dream where he gets the solution. Soon the army is building the bridge and manages to complete it by sunset. But at dawn they find it ruined and in pieces. They again set to work but yet again the bridge is damaged. Hanuman sees the hand of some magical powers and keep watch. He comes across Suvaana, the Mer-queen and daughter of Ravana. The story further contains the meeting between the two and how Hanuman manages to draw her towards the good cause. But can she be trusted? Will the power of goodness break the pull of blood ties? Is she ensnaring them into further trouble or is she really helping? Will Hanuman fall for her charms?None of these questions meet an answer as the author gives a rushed ending which is open ended. A lot can happen and readers are free to decide what happened.
After the whole build up I was very disheartened by the cliff-hanger ending. It is well written and seems like a chapter books we read in our language arts text books. It contains just enough story and plot to allure the reader with its magnetism, but doesn't actually give you the full story. There is a lot of scope for much character development or an ending. An excellent read for readers who are looking for a slice of mythology within a sliver of time. This makes for a marvellous quick read. So just bite right in.
The author renders her version of Ramakien, the Thai version of the Hindu epic. I had expected this to be a fully fledged novel, but was disappointed to see that it's a quick dip, a short novel. The story begins with Hanuman pondering over his decision to help Ram. Unlike Ramayana, Hanuman here is not fully supportive of Ram's quest. Hanuman sees the disaster in the wake of the war and wishes not to be a part of it. But it's his respect and devotion for Ram that brings him to assist Ram and bring back Sita. Hanuman is assisted by the vanara army headed by him along with Nala and Neela. tHe other two leader are sceptical about building a bridge from Pamban island to Lanka. They perceive that it would cost a lot of destruction to natural resources.
Deep in thoughts, Hanuman sees a dream where he gets the solution. Soon the army is building the bridge and manages to complete it by sunset. But at dawn they find it ruined and in pieces. They again set to work but yet again the bridge is damaged. Hanuman sees the hand of some magical powers and keep watch. He comes across Suvaana, the Mer-queen and daughter of Ravana. The story further contains the meeting between the two and how Hanuman manages to draw her towards the good cause. But can she be trusted? Will the power of goodness break the pull of blood ties? Is she ensnaring them into further trouble or is she really helping? Will Hanuman fall for her charms?None of these questions meet an answer as the author gives a rushed ending which is open ended. A lot can happen and readers are free to decide what happened.
After the whole build up I was very disheartened by the cliff-hanger ending. It is well written and seems like a chapter books we read in our language arts text books. It contains just enough story and plot to allure the reader with its magnetism, but doesn't actually give you the full story. There is a lot of scope for much character development or an ending. An excellent read for readers who are looking for a slice of mythology within a sliver of time. This makes for a marvellous quick read. So just bite right in.
September 12, 2021
Raavana's Daughter
" out of the calm sea rose the head of a beast. It had a cavernous mouth lined with jagged teeth the length of a man's arm. Scaly like a crocodile, but with the hind quarters of a seal"
Many have heard of the epic tale depicting the conflict between Lord Rama and Raavana, the Demon King of Lanka but Nadishka Aloysius has managed to add a little extra seasoning to its depths. (Pun intended)
Our story centers on the son of the wind God and Head of the Vanara army, Hanuman as he oversees the construction of a floating bridge connecting the Pamban Islands to the north of Lanka in his quest to rescue Sita from the clutches of Raavana. It is his unyielding strength coupled with his unwavering loyalty for Lord Rama that enables him to overcome the most perilous obstacles.
In this rendition of the Ramakien we are introduced to the alluring and formidable Queen of the Merpeople, Suvaana. Also known as Raavana's daughter. Will her demonic blood allow her to grant Hanuman and his comrades safe passage across the strait or like her father is she out for vengeance?
Having always been a fan of folklore and mythology I finally though I'd give this a try and enjoyed the experience. I only wish the story was longer.
" out of the calm sea rose the head of a beast. It had a cavernous mouth lined with jagged teeth the length of a man's arm. Scaly like a crocodile, but with the hind quarters of a seal"
Many have heard of the epic tale depicting the conflict between Lord Rama and Raavana, the Demon King of Lanka but Nadishka Aloysius has managed to add a little extra seasoning to its depths. (Pun intended)
Our story centers on the son of the wind God and Head of the Vanara army, Hanuman as he oversees the construction of a floating bridge connecting the Pamban Islands to the north of Lanka in his quest to rescue Sita from the clutches of Raavana. It is his unyielding strength coupled with his unwavering loyalty for Lord Rama that enables him to overcome the most perilous obstacles.
In this rendition of the Ramakien we are introduced to the alluring and formidable Queen of the Merpeople, Suvaana. Also known as Raavana's daughter. Will her demonic blood allow her to grant Hanuman and his comrades safe passage across the strait or like her father is she out for vengeance?
Having always been a fan of folklore and mythology I finally though I'd give this a try and enjoyed the experience. I only wish the story was longer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2021
I've always been intrigued by the story of Ravana, but unfortunately there weren't many books to explore on the subject and then comes Nadishka Aloysius' Ravana's Daughter and I jumped right in!
This is not your usual Ravana story; this is not about King Ravana or Rama-Sita. Going into this book, you need to keep a neutral point of view, uninfluenced by heroic stories of Ravana. This book is about the Mer- Queen, Suvaana, her attempts to destroy the building bridge between Pamban island and northern Lanka. The book is about a battle of wit, manipulation and courage, where loyalties are tested over freedom: a Mer-queen, a woman, yet again bargaining for freedom.
The book was very atmospheric: I could feel the change in enviornment, the nightfall, eerie quiteness, the waves of the sea, the magic of it all.
It was an adrenaline-rush read for me. I sat on the edge of my seat waiting to see where this would take me, what awaited for the Mer-queen and Hanuman. I found aspects I never thought I'd see in this book and it surprised me in a good way.
However, I wanted more! You know what happens when you eat just one french fry? You crave for more and more and then again more... that's where this book left me. Craving for more...
This is not your usual Ravana story; this is not about King Ravana or Rama-Sita. Going into this book, you need to keep a neutral point of view, uninfluenced by heroic stories of Ravana. This book is about the Mer- Queen, Suvaana, her attempts to destroy the building bridge between Pamban island and northern Lanka. The book is about a battle of wit, manipulation and courage, where loyalties are tested over freedom: a Mer-queen, a woman, yet again bargaining for freedom.
The book was very atmospheric: I could feel the change in enviornment, the nightfall, eerie quiteness, the waves of the sea, the magic of it all.
It was an adrenaline-rush read for me. I sat on the edge of my seat waiting to see where this would take me, what awaited for the Mer-queen and Hanuman. I found aspects I never thought I'd see in this book and it surprised me in a good way.
However, I wanted more! You know what happens when you eat just one french fry? You crave for more and more and then again more... that's where this book left me. Craving for more...
January 22, 2023
It wasnt the worst book I've read in my life but it could've been so much more than it ended up being.
I'm glad, I'm meeting the author soon, I'll be flooding her with questions and constructive criticism.
I'm glad, I'm meeting the author soon, I'll be flooding her with questions and constructive criticism.
March 8, 2019
This is advertised as the retelling of an Asian folk tale. I have to admit that I am a white European and totally unfamiliar with the original source material. For me, this was alternatively the strength and the weakness of the story.
The writing itself is solid, providing some lovely descriptions of a landscape which I have never seen for myself. As I didn’t know the source material, everything was new and exotic to me.
But at other times, the writer seemed to assume I knew the tale already, to the detriment of my enjoyment. For example, the main character is said to be an Ape. I couldn’t work out if he were literally an ape, or was that just a term used for humans? A couple of times, he was described as having a tail, but I never had the feeling that he was non human from any other descriptions.
Again, writing as an outsider to the culture which produced the tale, I found it disconcerting when it was revealed that the main character had special powers. No doubt someone who knows the original tale would nod in recognition. To me, it felt like a matter of convenience, and reduced the tension and risk in various scenes.
Overall, 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
The writing itself is solid, providing some lovely descriptions of a landscape which I have never seen for myself. As I didn’t know the source material, everything was new and exotic to me.
But at other times, the writer seemed to assume I knew the tale already, to the detriment of my enjoyment. For example, the main character is said to be an Ape. I couldn’t work out if he were literally an ape, or was that just a term used for humans? A couple of times, he was described as having a tail, but I never had the feeling that he was non human from any other descriptions.
Again, writing as an outsider to the culture which produced the tale, I found it disconcerting when it was revealed that the main character had special powers. No doubt someone who knows the original tale would nod in recognition. To me, it felt like a matter of convenience, and reduced the tension and risk in various scenes.
Overall, 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
June 28, 2019
I'm a sucker for mythology of any kind, so this one grabbed my attention. I'm not familiar enough with Asian mythology, so that was an added bonus. While I personally feel the cover doesn't quite do this fantastic story justice, the contents did not disappoint.
What this book does well is bring you right into the mythological world without bogging you down with backstory. It's clear a battle is going on and you learn about the players as you go along. The description is just fantastic, and page one really set the scene. I loved this line: "pennants which had hung limp now flapped and tugged with a vengeance" because you just know something is going to happen. I was quickly pulled along by the narrative and discovered that it has themes that are familiar in other mythologies. Not unexpected, I suppose. It's interesting how much crossover pops up in world mythologies. I suppose it says something about the human psyche.
This is a short book and I felt it ended much too soon. That's my only complaint, if you can call that a complaint. I'm intrigued to learn more about these characters.
What this book does well is bring you right into the mythological world without bogging you down with backstory. It's clear a battle is going on and you learn about the players as you go along. The description is just fantastic, and page one really set the scene. I loved this line: "pennants which had hung limp now flapped and tugged with a vengeance" because you just know something is going to happen. I was quickly pulled along by the narrative and discovered that it has themes that are familiar in other mythologies. Not unexpected, I suppose. It's interesting how much crossover pops up in world mythologies. I suppose it says something about the human psyche.
This is a short book and I felt it ended much too soon. That's my only complaint, if you can call that a complaint. I'm intrigued to learn more about these characters.
March 28, 2019
First, let me just say that I know nothing, absolutely nothing about Hindu Mythology. This is the first story of that genre I have ever read. That being said, I was instantly drawn into the story of Hanuman, the ape army commander, in his quest to get a bridge built to the demon’s kingdom to rescue the princess. The setting and characters were intriguing and the Merqueen, although fickle, was very interesting.
My only issue was that just as I was getting into the story, it was over. This is basically a short story or booklet, not a book. If I had known that going in, I would have been better prepared for it to end. I read the whole thing in less than an hour.
That being said, I enjoyed what I did read and would encourage the author to write a book, an epic adventure story, to teach a new generation these stories.
My only issue was that just as I was getting into the story, it was over. This is basically a short story or booklet, not a book. If I had known that going in, I would have been better prepared for it to end. I read the whole thing in less than an hour.
That being said, I enjoyed what I did read and would encourage the author to write a book, an epic adventure story, to teach a new generation these stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2019
I loved this book.
The book is about the king's general Hanuman that gathers an army to save the king wife from a demon. In the middle of this, the mermaids are trying to interfere with the efforts to build a bridge to the island where the kidnapped Sita held.
In the book, there is a mystical atmosphere, about gods, demons, mermaids and different Creatures from Indy culture.
We get to learn about the family history of the king Rama and the general Hanuman. Then we finding out that Sovaana, the queen of the mermaids have a family connection to the confrontation.
I got the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The book is about the king's general Hanuman that gathers an army to save the king wife from a demon. In the middle of this, the mermaids are trying to interfere with the efforts to build a bridge to the island where the kidnapped Sita held.
In the book, there is a mystical atmosphere, about gods, demons, mermaids and different Creatures from Indy culture.
We get to learn about the family history of the king Rama and the general Hanuman. Then we finding out that Sovaana, the queen of the mermaids have a family connection to the confrontation.
I got the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2019
I enjoyed this remake of an old Indian classic story. I remember first hearing this as a little girl watching "A Little Princess" and was instantly taken back to that time. Fond memories always bring back nostalgia, and this re-writing helped bring back the magic of the story.
Those unfamiliar with Indian literature might enjoy this foray into a different culture.
Those unfamiliar with Indian literature might enjoy this foray into a different culture.
September 19, 2021
A tale well-written 💯 The author brings the characters to life with the well versed demonstration of the characters. The story flow starts very enticing, but would have loved a little more to read about Suvana’s and Hanuman’s relationship. I felt like it came to an abrupt end exactly when I was looking for more.
February 1, 2024
This version of the book I read, only had 38 pages to the story. There were many misspelled words and the book more of a teaser to read the series instead of a prequel to the series.
Very disappointing.
Very disappointing.
January 31, 2019
I received a free copy of this story by the author for an honest review.
I was hesitant when I asked for a copy of this story. The synopsis sounded interesting but, at the same time, I was worried it would be confusing (new terms/type of people, I don’t always do well with “new”); but there was nothing to fear.
The worst part of this story...was that it ended! There’s all this buildup, the groups come together, and then it’s done. Obviously, this story is based on an “Indian Epic” which I take is a myth, but it was really interesting to read about.
A couple questions I have:
So the “creatures” were Humans, Apes, a Demon, and the Mer-People. I was confused about the difference between the humans and apes considering Suvaana had referred to Hanuman as an ape. Additionally, there was mention of the Humans and Vanara. Was this another name for the Apes?
When Hanuman was chatting with Suvaana underwater, what was she wearing over her chest, both when she was still in mermaid form as well in human. I ask because it mentions her being covered in seaweed when she left the ocean to speak with the army. There was no mention of seeing any of her goods.
I was hesitant when I asked for a copy of this story. The synopsis sounded interesting but, at the same time, I was worried it would be confusing (new terms/type of people, I don’t always do well with “new”); but there was nothing to fear.
The worst part of this story...was that it ended! There’s all this buildup, the groups come together, and then it’s done. Obviously, this story is based on an “Indian Epic” which I take is a myth, but it was really interesting to read about.
A couple questions I have:
So the “creatures” were Humans, Apes, a Demon, and the Mer-People. I was confused about the difference between the humans and apes considering Suvaana had referred to Hanuman as an ape. Additionally, there was mention of the Humans and Vanara. Was this another name for the Apes?
When Hanuman was chatting with Suvaana underwater, what was she wearing over her chest, both when she was still in mermaid form as well in human. I ask because it mentions her being covered in seaweed when she left the ocean to speak with the army. There was no mention of seeing any of her goods.
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