Tasha Suri offers a unique perspective on fantasy with her Books of Ambha series

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As a dedicated gamer and avid reader of fantasy novels, I’ve spent countless hours immersing myself in various magical worlds, most of which have a distinctly European medieval feel. But every now and then, I crave something new, something different that takes me on an unfamiliar journey. That’s exactly what Tasha Suri delivers with her “Books of Ambha” duology.

In various fantasy landscapes, you’ll find an ambiance reminiscent of European medieval times. Such a setting is plausible given the origins of popular fairy tales, which can be traced back to ancient Europe. Moreover, early masters of fantasy literature, like J.R.R. Tolkien, frequently established their narratives in realms influenced by Europe’s Dark and Middle Ages.

Tasha Suri, the author of the “Books of Ambha” duology, deviates from the typical pattern in her writing. Raised in London but deeply connected to her Punjabi background, Suri draws inspiration from her heritage. As mentioned on Fantastic Fiction’s biography, she spent a significant portion of her childhood in India, where her parents originated.

The world created in Books of Ambha is more Asian than European in nature

As a devoted fan, I’d describe my experience with “Empire of Sand” and “Realm of Ash” by Tessa Gratton in this way: In these captivating novels, Suri masterfully weaves her Indian heritage into a mesmerizing fantasy tapestry. The protagonist, Mehr, embodies an intriguing cultural duality. Born to a powerful father who governs the province, and a mother hailing from the desert-dwelling nomads, Mehr finds herself torn between the two worlds that shaped her existence.

In Suri’s tales, the landscape, structures, and inhabitants differ significantly from European traditions, aligning instead with Asian cultures. The magic employed is more akin to spiritual practices than typical genre magic. Unlike common fantasy narratives, Suri avoids portraying constant warfare and destruction. While there are still action sequences in “The Books of Ambha,” they take a back seat to the story’s progression.

A fundamental element of fantasy stories is the journey or quest. While both “Empire of Sand” and “Realm of Ash” contain quests, they differ in that they are more individually driven in the former, and wider in scope in the latter. In “Empire of Sand,” the quest centers around discovering one’s heritage. Meanwhile, in “Realm of Ash,” the quest for self-discovery through heritage remains significant, but encompasses a larger context.

If you’re in the market for something fresh and distinct from the norm in this genre, Tasha Suri’s “The Book of Ambha” duology is a captivating choice. The story unfolds against an unique backdrop, setting it apart from many others. With its well-timed pacing, deep emotions, a hint of romance, and a dash of mysticism, this series has earned high praise.

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2024-07-16 16:41