The Oleander Sword by Tasha Suri brings the reader back into the rich Indian-inspired world of the Burning Kingdoms.
Synopsis
It begins where the first book ended, with Malini embarking on war against her brother while finding her footing as Empress. Meanwhile, Priya, now an Elder and thrice-born from the deathless waters, leads alongside Bhumika as they try to manage the rot plaguing Ahiranya’s land and people.
Although they are leaders of regions with contentious relations, Malini and Priya’s lives will cross again in their efforts to save their kingdoms.
Review of The Oleander Sword
This complex fantasy has multiple POVs that really help to give a full scope of the empire’s activities. Although Malini, Priya, and Bhumika tell the bulk of the story. Malini’s character development was exceptional. There is no easy path for her. She’s definitely my favourite.
I read the first book in this trilogy recently and must say I enjoyed this second instalment a lot more. The first book set the scene, but this one expanded the world-building. Not only does the reader get to see more of the empire, but there’s also more information revealed about the yaksa and the rot.
There is some action, but it mostly focuses on the characters and the difficult choices they must make to save their people.
I cannot wait for the third and final instalment. I highly recommend this series.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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Thank you to Orbit for providing me with physical and digital copies to review.
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