Mona Tewari rewrites the story of a South Indian rani who fought against Portuguese invasion and colonization in the adventurous, sensual historical fantasy epic Burn the Sea.
Abbakka Chowta, rajkumari of Ullal, grew up training in combat as her elder sister, Ektha, trained to become the next rani. Abbakka expects to serve as her sister's adviser and supporter. Then Ullal's historic enemy, the half-human, half-snake water creatures called the Porcugi, launch attacks on their soil and demand tithes for "protection." Abbakka's family negotiates her betrothal to the handsome, charming, and spineless raja of a rich neighboring country, hoping the alliance will save Ullal from the Porcugi. Abbakka is livid: "If you wanted me to be a bauble, you never should have given me a blade." A Porcugi attack on the palace ends in Ektha's murder, and it's Abbakka who becomes rani. She follows through with her betrothal for the good of her nation but soon realizes her husband is under the thumb of a ruthless and power-hungry counselor who is only too happy to bargain with the Porcugi. Abbakka will need cunning, determination, and the support of the spirit creatures she befriended in childhood to keep Ullal independent and herself alive.
Tewari's debut is fierce, vibrant, and emotional, and introduces a brave and intelligent heroine who would sacrifice everything for her people. Culture and spirituality permeate every aspect of the story, creating a breathtaking depth of world-building that will leave readers eager for the planned sequel. --Jaclyn Fulwood, blogger at Infinite Reads