A Lion's Pride

by D.M. De Alwis

A Life Spent Alone A thousand years have passed since Sinha evolved into an asura with the ability to transform into a lion and a man. Left to live in the mortal realm—knowledge alone will not suffice for experience—he seeks out his reincarnates from his ancient past, who serve as guides.

No Veil Between Worlds Hungry ghosts and demons prey on the human population surrounding the city of sages, Khankal.

In the Shadows, Sinha’s Ancient Enemy Plots His Revenge.

317 pages, Paperback

Published January 6, 2026

About the author

D. M. De Alwis is a Canadian Indie author with a passion for researching and writing prehistoric fantasy cultivated while pachinko-ing through several careers. D.M.'s novels are bursting with insight leading to the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe, and Everything. When not writing, she volunteers and teaches with the cadet corps. Her novels are edited by Elise Abram and published by Ahasae Tharu Publishing. To find out more, check out her musings at dmdealwis.com or follower her on Threads and Instagram (@dmdealwis).

Reviews

[Billy Buttons · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
EDITORIAL REVIEW
3rd April 2026
TITLE: A Lion's Pride, Pawn of Samsara Duology, Volume 2
AUTHOR: D.M. De Alwis


Star Rating: 4

“A myths based, fantasy epic with strong characterisation and a protagonist worth rooting for..” The Wishing Shelf

REVIEW
I must say, this is a very well-written and smartly plotted, myths-based, fantasy novel from the pen of talented writer, D.M. De Alwis. It’s very much the story of Sinha who has a talent of transforming from a big cat to a human. It’s also a tale of growing evil, as we follow Sinha’s life in the mortal realm. It seems he is no longer to be the pawn of gods. But we shall see!
A lot to enjoy here, folks. But I have to say, “Read a Lion’s Head first.” It’s a good book although I have to say, the second book is stronger. The author, it seems, has perfected her art; as a result, the opening of A Lion’s Pride is better, and the pacing is much improved over the first book. But it’s ‘character development’ where this author excels. The protagonist, Sinha, is fully developed and fun to get to know and root for. Also, the secondary characters are often fascinating. Another of the novel’s strengths is the Buddhist, Hindu cosmology that’s interwoven into the story. So, from a cultural POV, it’s also rather interesting.
So, who is the book for? Hmm, YA possibly, and adult too. Fans of Bruce Nesmith’s Loki Redeemed novels, I suspect, will find this book interesting. Or the wonderful The Words of Kings and Prophets – which I love. I think most readers will enjoy getting to know Sinha, the sprinkling of humor, and the complexity of the mythical world – and let’s not forget the demons!
All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable read.

A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk

[Derick Furkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked how Sinha met each of the other characters. I also liked brother Lion's personality, and the plot around Isha's cure. I also liked the nature of Sinha's appearance, and what clothes he's wearing. Before I read this book, I didn't really know anything about Hindu mythology, or the nature of getting older. One thing I would like to know: Why can't Sinha choose to have normal hands when he's a more powerful asura? I liked this book more than the first one in the series.