The Burning Kingdoms trilogy is finally at an end and what a journey. The Lotus Empire has such a fabulous ending to one of my favorite series. Both Priya and Malini have gone through so much, sacrificed it all, where can they go from here? You’ll have to read to find out! Keep reading this book review of The Lotus Empire for my full thoughts.
Summary
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 Claim her throne and burn in order to seal her legacy—or find another 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 with flowering eyes and a mouth of thorns lies beneath the waters. The yaksa promises protection for Ahiranya. But in exchange, she needs a sacrifice. And she’s chosen Priya as the one to offer it.
Two women once entwined by fate now stand against each other. But 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
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
While it’s been some time since I’ve been in The Burning Kingdoms world, I sunk right back in. The Lotus Empire features multiple perspectives as we witness the toll of rebellion. Often the road to peace is one coated in bloodshed and sacrifice. Priya and Malini are working through their mistakes, the betrayals, the wounds they have inflicted on each other. For both Priya and Malini they have to explore what it means to be a leader, to have ‘necessary’ casualties, and to figure out how to retain their position. It’s a story where faith can be twisted and where power can sometimes need reverence or fear.
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What would we do to protect the ones we love, our idea of home. One of my favorite themes that The Lotus Empire explored is faith and power. The ways that the gods will demand all the space we have within for worship. Our lives are so small compared to what they know, what they care about. We are infinitesimal. So they demand everything we have. The line, “loyalty means hollowing” from The Lotus Empire is one of my favorites. It’s about how utter loyalty means that we give up so much of ourselves in the process. All the things our worship and our leaders will ask of us.
The Lotus Empire also explores this line between humanity and something more. Between being so close to our power source and not sure if we should sacrifice the last step for it. The Lotus Empire is a wonderful ending to a favorite series and I would highly recommend to finish up this amazing trip. Find The Lotus Empire on Goodreads, Storygraph, Amazon(US)(UK), Bookshop.org, Blackwells, & Libro. fm.