A Lazy Reader's Review of "The Lotus Empire" by Tasha Suri

Synopsis

    Malini has claimed her rightful throne as the empress of Parijatdvipa, just as the nameless gods prophesied. Now, in order to gain the support of the priesthood who remain loyal to the fallen emperor, she must consider a terrible bargain: Claim her throne and burn in order to seal her legacy – or find another who is willing to take her place on the pyre.

    Priya has survived the deathless waters and now their magic runs in her veins. But a mysterious yaksa promises protection for Ahiranya. But in exchange, Priya must make the ultimate sacrifice.

    When an ancient enemy rises to threaten their world, Priya and Malini will find themselves fighting together once more – to prevent their kingdoms, and their futures, from burning to ash.

Review

    What a wild fucking ride. Let's talk about it.

    This book is a masterclass on how to finish a trilogy. The novel delivers an emotionally charged blend of epic fantasy, political intrigue, and romance, all set within a lushly detailed world inspired by South Asian mythology. 

    Suri's ability to create 4-dimensional characters is brilliant. I was so emotionally invested in these characters that by the end of the book, I was in tears. Malini's struggle to maintain her grip on power as Empress and Priya's journey as a morally complex protagonist highlight the series' theme of sacrifice in resilience. Suri really took the idea of "morally grey lesbians" and ran with it. The Yaksa, with their terrifying god-like presence, add so much tension and dread to the story. At the same time, the deepening of the magic system offers a complex take on the cultural and religious conflicts within the story. These aspects create a world that is brimming with depth and vibrancy. Everything just felt so real; the characters, the world, the magic system, everything.

    I think what really makes not just this book, by the entire series shine is its unapologetic exploration of ambition, power, and love. Suri's depiction of Malini and Priya's dynamic as lovers and enemies is beautiful. It's filled to the brim with yearning and tragedy. She lets her female characters do questionable things, she lets them have space to be less than kind, she allows them to maintain their power without giving up aspects of their femininity. Side characters like Bhumika, Lata, Deepa, and even Varsha are each given space to work toward and fulfill their own ambitions and aren't condemned for it in ways that many female characters in the fantasy genre are. I could kiss Suri smack on the mouth for that if she'd let me.

    The queer romance between Malini and Priya is both a cornerstone of the narrative and a testament to Suri's ability to weave complex relationships into broader themes of the empire. This is also seen in the other female relationships. These women love and hate each other at the same time and it's just so perfectly imperfect.

    The conclusion of this brilliant series doesn't offer a "happily ever after" feeling. It's bittersweet as each character lost something they held close to them in one form or another. However, the fitting end underscores the cost of change and power while leaving room for hope. I genuinely thing that the Burning Kingdoms Trilogy will go down as a modern classic fantasy. Tasha Suri, you absolute genius.

Dec. 1, 2024 – Dec. 8, 2024

★★★★★

Favorite Quote: "The same griefs and joys live everywhere, Malini . . . But I find peace in seeing that we all rise and fall on the same waves. Maybe you would, too."