The Lotus Empire by Tasha Suri

The Lotus Empire was an incredible finish to The Jasmine Throne series. Priya’s doubts about her faith and loyalty towards the yaksa increase, as does Malini’s desperation to avoid sacrificing herself through flames. Ultimately, the two women are clinging to threads of power, trying to maneuver a hostile world in a way that will keep themselves and theri loved ones safe.

Malini is still hurt and betrayed by Priya’s actions at the end of The Oleander Sword. She attacks Ahiranyi without consideration of protecting Priya. Priya is the yaksa’s chosen. She continues to hollow herself to make more room for the ancient magic. The more she hollows herself, the more she learns–she is essential to the yaksa’s plans to remake the world. Malini and Priya are both fighting wars on multiple fronts. Malini is fighting to retain her political power, fighting the famine starving her people, and fighting the strange magic that has made Ahiranyi untouchable. Priya is fighting to lead her people in Bhumika’s absence, fighting the cruelty of the yaksa, and fighting Malini’s soldiers.

In the midst of all the chaos, Malini and Priya continue to meet in their dreams. They come to a tentative understanding, then an alliance, and finally they regain their love and trust for each other.

I’m not going to spoil the ending, but I will tell you that it’s beautifully bittersweet. Once again, Tasha Suri does an amazing job balancing the fantasy, the politics, and the romance. Every subplot weaves together seamlessly–I was never confused about the plot or character progression, despite multiple perspectives. I particularly enjoyed the dramatic irony that the multiple perspectives provided. The plot was propulsive and suspenseful, while still having depth and substance.

I loved how Tahsa Suri included multiple religions. She was able to create three different major religious systems, all fully fleshed out. I really liked how there wasn’t one true religion. The deities from each of the three systems had a role in the plot, and while characters might disparage certain religions, the story itself was able to balance respect for all the deities of the world.

My favorite thing about The Lotus Empire, about the whole series, really, was the lesbian representation. While this series is primarily a fantasy, there are wonderful, tender moments between Priya and Malini. Reading these books, especially at a time where other wlw representation is under heavy criticism, gives me hope that stroies featuring non-hetero women will continue to be told.

Thanks for reading with me,

Katie