Review: The Tiger at Midnight by Swati Teerdhala

Hey all, Dani here.

The new schedule is going pretty good so far, which means that today is review post. And it is a recently completed read for me. I’ll be completely honest that today I just have to talk about this really great book I just read.

Let’s get started.

Summary

Esha is a legend, but no one knows. It’s only in the shadows that she moonlights as the Viper, the rebels’ highly skilled assassin. She’s devoted her life to avenging what she lost in the royal coup, and now she’s been tasked with her most important mission to date: taking down the ruthless General Hotha.

Kunal has been a soldier since childhood, training morning and night to uphold the power of King Vardaan. His uncle, the general, has ensured that Kunal never strays from the path—even as a part of Kunal longs to join the outside world, which has been growing only more volatile.

Then Esha’s and Kunal’s paths cross—and an unimaginable chain of events unfolds. Both the Viper and the soldier think they’re calling the shots, but they’re not the only players moving the pieces. As the bonds that hold their land in order break down and the sins of the past meet the promise of a new future, both rebel and soldier must make unforgivable choices.

Inspired by ancient Indian history and Hindu mythology.

My Thoughts

Rating: 5 stars

Oh my goodness. The cat and mouse chase in this book is utterly fantastic. Half the time it isn’t clear who is the cat and who is the mouse; it really depends on whose perspective you’re following.

I loved the atmosphere in this book. The worldbuilding, the culture, the politics, the little bit of magic, the characters, and even the slow-burning romance. I was all in for all of it.

Also, hey, that cover is stunning, and I will definitely recommend the hardcover because the spine is gold and shiny.

There are so many Asian, Middle Eastern, etc fantasy tales coming out right now, and I have been pretty much amazed by all of them. They are wonderful and complex and beautiful…and I definitely absolutely need to read more.

I devoured this book, and I am so excited to see what will happen with Esha, Kunal, and the others in the next installment.

Where to Buy

You can pick up your own copy from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-a-million, Book Depository, or your local independent bookstore.