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Venom #2
A Touch of Blood
Read the Persephone myth like never before in this companion to A Drop of Venom by Sajni Patel, where Greek mythology meets Indian lore.
Gods are made, not born.
Before Manisha, the youngest of three sisters, was sent to hide on the floating mountain, her eldest sister, Eshani, made a deal with the shades. In order to save her people in the midst of a tragic war, she exchanged her life for theirs. Now, years later, the shades claim their due, dragging Eshani into the Nightmare Realm where she must find the Gatekeeper to fulfill her end of the bargain.
Nothing is as it seems in a land filled with ravenous monsters, ghoulish residents, and a river full of the dead. But most terrifying of all is the Shadow King, who intends to use Eshani to obtain immortality. As it turns out, Eshani—nicknamed “little goddess of spring”—is the key to fulfilling the Nightmare Realm’s prophecy. There’s only one person who can help Eshani escape, and he has his own problems.
Hiran has spent most of his life hiding, but destiny beckons, and he can no longer resist the call of the realm. But how can a stowaway, long thought to be dead, save an entire world?
Nothing will stop the Nightmare Realm from getting what it wants. Except maybe a king in the making and a goddess rising.
Gods are made, not born.
Before Manisha, the youngest of three sisters, was sent to hide on the floating mountain, her eldest sister, Eshani, made a deal with the shades. In order to save her people in the midst of a tragic war, she exchanged her life for theirs. Now, years later, the shades claim their due, dragging Eshani into the Nightmare Realm where she must find the Gatekeeper to fulfill her end of the bargain.
Nothing is as it seems in a land filled with ravenous monsters, ghoulish residents, and a river full of the dead. But most terrifying of all is the Shadow King, who intends to use Eshani to obtain immortality. As it turns out, Eshani—nicknamed “little goddess of spring”—is the key to fulfilling the Nightmare Realm’s prophecy. There’s only one person who can help Eshani escape, and he has his own problems.
Hiran has spent most of his life hiding, but destiny beckons, and he can no longer resist the call of the realm. But how can a stowaway, long thought to be dead, save an entire world?
Nothing will stop the Nightmare Realm from getting what it wants. Except maybe a king in the making and a goddess rising.
416 pages, Hardcover
Published February 25, 2025
36 people are currently reading
1534 people want to read
About the author
Sajni Patel
10 books1,646 followersSajni Patel is an award-winning author of women’s fiction and young adult books. Her works have appeared on numerous Best of the Year and Must Read lists from Cosmo, Teen Vogue, Apple Books, Audiofile, Tribeza, Austin Woman, NBC, The Insider, and many others.
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October 24, 2025WAIT A SEC
I HAD COMPLETELY FORGOTTEN THAT THIS BOOK WAS ALR OUT!!!!
WHY AM I SO LATE??????????!!!!!!!!!😭😭😭😭😭
I HAD COMPLETELY FORGOTTEN THAT THIS BOOK WAS ALR OUT!!!!
WHY AM I SO LATE??????????!!!!!!!!!😭😭😭😭😭
December 28, 2025
A Touch of Blood is the second stand-alone instalment in the Venom series by hugely-tallented Sajni Patel and drew me straight back into the mythological fantasy world the books are set in.
These books are stand-alone in the series, but I would highly recommend reading them in order.
In this book, we follow Eshanis' story which starts before her younger sibling Manisha is sent to live on the floating mountain ( from book one) after war erupted in their homeland. Eshani and her twin sister Sithara fight in the battle along with their mother and tiger and to ensure her people survive, Eshani makes a deal with the Shades forfeiting her life in exchange for giving her people safe passage to survive. Eshani has no idea when the Shades will want payment for their bargain, and when she is dragged into the Nightmare Realm, she has the biggest task and battle of her life. For she must find the Gatekeeper to fulfil her side of the bargain with them.
Hiran is the Gatekeeper who's is the brother of the Shadow King who rules the Nightmare Realm and although their paths are woven together and he is the only one who can truly help Eshani succeed and escape, he has been in hiding helping the inhabitants of the plague-riddled Nightmare Realm survive. Hirans sister is a dream-weaver and helps Hiran in his dreams make a connection with Eshani for years before she arrives in the Nightmare Realm, to help put in place an alliance that will help both realms. When their paths do finally meet in the waking world, all hell let's loose and the pair have no choice along with the band of rebels they befriend along the way to fight for survival.
This was another unputdownable read and I can't wait to read book three which the author has hinted at maybe being written in the near future of the final siblings story (Sithara) which I'm very excited for as this book gives hints to her having powers and ties to these books.
I just loved the characters in this book and the mythological and fantasy elements woven with Indian and Greek myths to create a world far beyond anything you could expect to uncover.
These books are stand-alone in the series, but I would highly recommend reading them in order.
In this book, we follow Eshanis' story which starts before her younger sibling Manisha is sent to live on the floating mountain ( from book one) after war erupted in their homeland. Eshani and her twin sister Sithara fight in the battle along with their mother and tiger and to ensure her people survive, Eshani makes a deal with the Shades forfeiting her life in exchange for giving her people safe passage to survive. Eshani has no idea when the Shades will want payment for their bargain, and when she is dragged into the Nightmare Realm, she has the biggest task and battle of her life. For she must find the Gatekeeper to fulfil her side of the bargain with them.
Hiran is the Gatekeeper who's is the brother of the Shadow King who rules the Nightmare Realm and although their paths are woven together and he is the only one who can truly help Eshani succeed and escape, he has been in hiding helping the inhabitants of the plague-riddled Nightmare Realm survive. Hirans sister is a dream-weaver and helps Hiran in his dreams make a connection with Eshani for years before she arrives in the Nightmare Realm, to help put in place an alliance that will help both realms. When their paths do finally meet in the waking world, all hell let's loose and the pair have no choice along with the band of rebels they befriend along the way to fight for survival.
This was another unputdownable read and I can't wait to read book three which the author has hinted at maybe being written in the near future of the final siblings story (Sithara) which I'm very excited for as this book gives hints to her having powers and ties to these books.
I just loved the characters in this book and the mythological and fantasy elements woven with Indian and Greek myths to create a world far beyond anything you could expect to uncover.
March 20, 2025
As someone who adores well-written retellings of lore and mythology, I found this book most entertaining. I believe the plot was evenly paced with believable character growth. Characterization was gorgeous - afterall it sometimes is a bit repetitive to read about "alpha-type" characters. I liked that the main characters felt fear and doubt - feelings I feel in sad abundance. The world building was truly beautiful and imaginative. I will be waiting impatiently for the next book and there absolutely must be a next book soon.
(If anyone from the publishing team comes across this review, read last line twice)
(If anyone from the publishing team comes across this review, read last line twice)
October 19, 2025
We fight so others may live.
Eshani made a deal with the shades to get her people, the naga, to cross to the other side of the nightmare realm, seeking asylum from a war that was started by the king. Since the shades helped the naga, the shades require Eshani to fulfill her side of the deal. Eshani has no idea what to do when she ends up in the nightmare realm, the only clue she has is to find the gatekeeper.
Hiran and his sister, Holika, were burnt alive by the shadow king, along with their mother. Hiran and Holika both survived, and they both live in hiding, sort of. When Eshani crosses over to the nightmare realm, Hiran has no other choice but to come out of hiding.
I was very excited to read this, as I loved A Drop of Venom. This started a bit slow for me, but kept my interest. I both loved and kinda hated it. My reasons for hating this are mainly because of how differently Eshani's character is dealt, as compared to Manisha's. More on that later.
Told from dual pov, this book tells Eshani and Hiran's story. This is also a retelling of Persephone's story, woven with the Asura mythology, which was done really well. I didn't mind Eshani, but I also didn't love her, especially toward the end. I loved Hiran and Holika, along with Rohan. Vidya and Shruti were okay, too.
The writing was good, but I found the plot to be a tad bit slow, even though so much happens, it takes a fair bit into the book to get things going. I liked the romance, preferred it to the previous book, as it wasn't exactly insta-love. Also, the language was an improvement on the first book. So why did I say that I also hated it? I'll explain. Incoming rant:
In the previous book, I kept waiting for an explanation of why Manisha was left to stay on the floating mountains by her family. That wasn't explained, so I expected it to be addressed in this, it wasn't. Even if there's an explanation for that in the next book, I already know that I won't care for it, as nothing can justify Manisha's family leaving Manisha to fend for herself, since they didn't know anyone there. Manisha's family stayed in relative safety compared to Manisha. No matter what the writer tells me in the next book, prophecy or whatnot, it won't matter because Manisha wasn't safe, and she was the youngest, and nothing can justify that to me. Nothing.
Also, how come Manisha didn't have any special powers since the other two sisters did, and that too since they were younger? Yes, Manisha had Noni with her, but Eshani also had some help from Ruby. Even though it is mentioned that Ruby may not be Eshani's. Still? Eshani also had Lekha and the gatekeeper to help. Gosh! It felt like Eshani had help from anyone and everyone, unlike Manisha. The few villagers who helped Manisha with food and clothes aren't the same as to what Eshani got. Eshani even got her father to help, and then she gets the immortality elixir just like that. It is also implied that Eshani and Holika somehow indirectly affected and caused Manisha to get sexually assaulted. Seriously? This was too much. Way too much. I actually wanted to stop reading at this, and did for a couple of days, but got back to reading because I wanted to see it through.
At the end, Eshani wants to stay in the nightmare realm when she wins, forgetting all about Manisha, whom she wanted to save at the start. It was one blow after another when it came to Manisha.
My heart wept for Manisha all over again. I loved Manisha's journey in the previous book. And everything she endures to come out strong like that. But at the same time, I kept thinking, what did Manisha do to deserve all that she went through? Why didn't she have any other powers? Why are Eshani and Sithara so special to get extra powers in addition to the family heirlooms? And how come Eshani got everything relatively easier and became immortal with anyone and everyone helping her?
Besides all this, I loved Hiran and Holika's characters and their progress. Rohan was a good side character. But Manisha is still my favourite in all the realms. I loved the strong female rep, even though it was spoilt a little in this. And I loved the ever frightening Asura lore and mythology, which was done amazingly. It made me remember all the nightmares I used to have after reading and/or listening to all the Asura stories when I was younger, which now serves as nostalgia for me.
I will read the next in the series only because I want to know the author's excuse for abandoning Manisha, and to see if the writer lets Manisha enact her revenge on Sita and the village or not.
3.5 starts rounding up to 4 for Hiran and Holika.
Eshani made a deal with the shades to get her people, the naga, to cross to the other side of the nightmare realm, seeking asylum from a war that was started by the king. Since the shades helped the naga, the shades require Eshani to fulfill her side of the deal. Eshani has no idea what to do when she ends up in the nightmare realm, the only clue she has is to find the gatekeeper.
Hiran and his sister, Holika, were burnt alive by the shadow king, along with their mother. Hiran and Holika both survived, and they both live in hiding, sort of. When Eshani crosses over to the nightmare realm, Hiran has no other choice but to come out of hiding.
I was very excited to read this, as I loved A Drop of Venom. This started a bit slow for me, but kept my interest. I both loved and kinda hated it. My reasons for hating this are mainly because of how differently Eshani's character is dealt, as compared to Manisha's. More on that later.
Told from dual pov, this book tells Eshani and Hiran's story. This is also a retelling of Persephone's story, woven with the Asura mythology, which was done really well. I didn't mind Eshani, but I also didn't love her, especially toward the end. I loved Hiran and Holika, along with Rohan. Vidya and Shruti were okay, too.
The writing was good, but I found the plot to be a tad bit slow, even though so much happens, it takes a fair bit into the book to get things going. I liked the romance, preferred it to the previous book, as it wasn't exactly insta-love. Also, the language was an improvement on the first book. So why did I say that I also hated it? I'll explain. Incoming rant:
In the previous book, I kept waiting for an explanation of why Manisha was left to stay on the floating mountains by her family. That wasn't explained, so I expected it to be addressed in this, it wasn't. Even if there's an explanation for that in the next book, I already know that I won't care for it, as nothing can justify Manisha's family leaving Manisha to fend for herself, since they didn't know anyone there. Manisha's family stayed in relative safety compared to Manisha. No matter what the writer tells me in the next book, prophecy or whatnot, it won't matter because Manisha wasn't safe, and she was the youngest, and nothing can justify that to me. Nothing.
Also, how come Manisha didn't have any special powers since the other two sisters did, and that too since they were younger? Yes, Manisha had Noni with her, but Eshani also had some help from Ruby. Even though it is mentioned that Ruby may not be Eshani's. Still? Eshani also had Lekha and the gatekeeper to help. Gosh! It felt like Eshani had help from anyone and everyone, unlike Manisha. The few villagers who helped Manisha with food and clothes aren't the same as to what Eshani got. Eshani even got her father to help, and then she gets the immortality elixir just like that. It is also implied that Eshani and Holika somehow indirectly affected and caused Manisha to get sexually assaulted. Seriously? This was too much. Way too much. I actually wanted to stop reading at this, and did for a couple of days, but got back to reading because I wanted to see it through.
At the end, Eshani wants to stay in the nightmare realm when she wins, forgetting all about Manisha, whom she wanted to save at the start. It was one blow after another when it came to Manisha.
My heart wept for Manisha all over again. I loved Manisha's journey in the previous book. And everything she endures to come out strong like that. But at the same time, I kept thinking, what did Manisha do to deserve all that she went through? Why didn't she have any other powers? Why are Eshani and Sithara so special to get extra powers in addition to the family heirlooms? And how come Eshani got everything relatively easier and became immortal with anyone and everyone helping her?
Besides all this, I loved Hiran and Holika's characters and their progress. Rohan was a good side character. But Manisha is still my favourite in all the realms. I loved the strong female rep, even though it was spoilt a little in this. And I loved the ever frightening Asura lore and mythology, which was done amazingly. It made me remember all the nightmares I used to have after reading and/or listening to all the Asura stories when I was younger, which now serves as nostalgia for me.
I will read the next in the series only because I want to know the author's excuse for abandoning Manisha, and to see if the writer lets Manisha enact her revenge on Sita and the village or not.
3.5 starts rounding up to 4 for Hiran and Holika.
December 29, 2024
Thank you to Sajni Patel, Rick Riordan Presents, and Edelweiss for the ARC and the opportunity to review this book, I am immensely grateful!
Trigger warnings for this book include: rape culture, sexual humiliation, misogyny, war, violence, gore (The message from the author in the beginning of the book includes trigger warnings for anyone who needs them)
As an avid Indian mythology enjoyer, I was super excited to receive an ARC of this book. I avidly enjoyed A Drop of Venom and Manisha’s journey, and was super excited to read Eshani’s story. I think the previous book did a great job of building up hype and anticipation for this book!
This book masterfully builds on the lore and world of A Drop of Venom- we learn more about the Fire Wars and why they happened, we learn more about Patala, and we learn what happened to the nagas after Manisha was sent to the temple. This book also weaves together so well with ADoV, where we see events that happened to Manisha. I think what this sequel does so wonderfully is that this story happens while ADoV is happening, and things we learn in this book changes the events that happen in ADoV and add a new perspective. I also love how this book hints at Sithara's story as well (the one I am most excited about!). I loved how Eshani’s story is more of a bridge that connects the three stories together. (And I LOVED how all three of the stories are connected) There’s many things I loved in this book and there’s too much to list in this review. But the greatest thing about this book is Eshani herself: a character who is so strong and has lived through a war and continuously sacrifices for her people and her family. She has such an optimistic outlook on life, despite the hardships that she faces before and during this book. Her character is the strongest and most beautiful part of this book, and Sajni Patel wrote her so wonderfully.
I was super hyped for this book and it did not miss the mark! I think I’m even more hyped for the published book and Sithara’s story now. Again, thank you to Sajni Patel, Rick Riordan Presents, and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!!
Trigger warnings for this book include: rape culture, sexual humiliation, misogyny, war, violence, gore (The message from the author in the beginning of the book includes trigger warnings for anyone who needs them)
As an avid Indian mythology enjoyer, I was super excited to receive an ARC of this book. I avidly enjoyed A Drop of Venom and Manisha’s journey, and was super excited to read Eshani’s story. I think the previous book did a great job of building up hype and anticipation for this book!
This book masterfully builds on the lore and world of A Drop of Venom- we learn more about the Fire Wars and why they happened, we learn more about Patala, and we learn what happened to the nagas after Manisha was sent to the temple. This book also weaves together so well with ADoV, where we see events that happened to Manisha. I think what this sequel does so wonderfully is that this story happens while ADoV is happening, and things we learn in this book changes the events that happen in ADoV and add a new perspective. I also love how this book hints at Sithara's story as well (the one I am most excited about!). I loved how Eshani’s story is more of a bridge that connects the three stories together. (And I LOVED how all three of the stories are connected) There’s many things I loved in this book and there’s too much to list in this review. But the greatest thing about this book is Eshani herself: a character who is so strong and has lived through a war and continuously sacrifices for her people and her family. She has such an optimistic outlook on life, despite the hardships that she faces before and during this book. Her character is the strongest and most beautiful part of this book, and Sajni Patel wrote her so wonderfully.
I was super hyped for this book and it did not miss the mark! I think I’m even more hyped for the published book and Sithara’s story now. Again, thank you to Sajni Patel, Rick Riordan Presents, and Edelweiss for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2025
Thank you so much to Disney Publishing Worldwide for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
A Touch of Blood is a powerful standalone sequel to A Drop of Venom! I was truly wowed when I first read an ARC of A Drop of Venom in 2023. Sajni's pivot to fantasy novels felt so seamless. The worldbuilding, fantasy, politics, and Indian and Greek mythology felt so effortless for a contemporary romance writer. After reading A Touch of Blood, it's even more obvious how well-written Sajni Patel's fantasy novels are. I really enjoyed following Eshani and Hiran in a new underworld realm in A Touch of Blood. The buildup for both Eshani and Hiran's character arcs to converge for the climax of overtaking the Shadow King was very interesting to follow along. I also enjoyed the cast of side characters who joined in on this adventure as well and provided some comedic relief.
A Touch of Blood isn't as heavy in topics compared to A Drop of Venom, which deals firsthand and on-page about sexual assault, but it is still a darker YA fantasy. I think at times, the intricacies of the world in the underworld realm and Eshani's powers were also a little complicated to understand (compared to A Drop of Venom). I also wished we got some more romantic scenes with Hiran and Eshani, but when you're a teen saving the world, there isn't time for much romance, and I respect that! I definitely think this was still an enjoyable read, and I'm excited to read Sajni's future fantasy works, especially if she has more planned in this universe. I don't think any future books have been announced at this time, but there were some seeds that were planted at the end of this novel, so a girl can hope!
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A Touch of Blood is a powerful standalone sequel to A Drop of Venom! I was truly wowed when I first read an ARC of A Drop of Venom in 2023. Sajni's pivot to fantasy novels felt so seamless. The worldbuilding, fantasy, politics, and Indian and Greek mythology felt so effortless for a contemporary romance writer. After reading A Touch of Blood, it's even more obvious how well-written Sajni Patel's fantasy novels are. I really enjoyed following Eshani and Hiran in a new underworld realm in A Touch of Blood. The buildup for both Eshani and Hiran's character arcs to converge for the climax of overtaking the Shadow King was very interesting to follow along. I also enjoyed the cast of side characters who joined in on this adventure as well and provided some comedic relief.
A Touch of Blood isn't as heavy in topics compared to A Drop of Venom, which deals firsthand and on-page about sexual assault, but it is still a darker YA fantasy. I think at times, the intricacies of the world in the underworld realm and Eshani's powers were also a little complicated to understand (compared to A Drop of Venom). I also wished we got some more romantic scenes with Hiran and Eshani, but when you're a teen saving the world, there isn't time for much romance, and I respect that! I definitely think this was still an enjoyable read, and I'm excited to read Sajni's future fantasy works, especially if she has more planned in this universe. I don't think any future books have been announced at this time, but there were some seeds that were planted at the end of this novel, so a girl can hope!
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August 3, 2025
Okay this book was even better than the first in some sense!! It is an Indian take on a Medusa meets Hades x Persephone retelling and it was just so cool!! I loved the eeriness of the shadow/nightmare realm. I love how this story focuses on Eshani (Manisha's sister) and still follows the prophecy we here in the first book! I absolutely loved Hiran, he is the Gatekeeper to the Nightmare Realm and basically a demon! The magic system used is so cool and I loved all the different sorts of creatures we got to experience in this story! The White Plague was also a cool aspect to add because it gave this sort of mysterious feel to the story that the characters now need to fix. I loved that both Hiran and Eshani needed to accept who they were in the end! I cannot wait for book 3!
June 12, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
June 3, 2025
This continues the story of the three nagin sisters who have been fighting for survival as an evil king tries to kill their race. Eshani is the eldest and in order to get her people to safety she made a deal with demons from the underworld. The debt is called and she is transported to a vividly horrifying world where she goes on a quest to survive and save the dying land. This is a Persephone and Hades retelling but with Indian mythological elements. Eshani as Persephone is attuned to nature and has powers that lets her communicate and manipulate them. Hiram may be the Hades character. He is a hidden heir to this nightmare world which is run by his evil half brother. I did find many enjoyable elements as the story was truly an adventure with lots of twists and turns but it did lag and failed to engage thoroughly. I think that I struggled to connect to the characters. It felt distant and I wished I believed their romantic connection more. This is a YA story so things are very PG and I appreciated that the story was less traumatizing than the first book. I do want to read the next book if it ever publishes as it does feel like a trilogy that could end in a huge way. Also, the middle sister is my favorite so far.
April 26, 2025
3.5 Stars
Things I liked: Great characters and call-backs to the first book. Lots of adventure. Made me want to read another installment.
Things I didn’t like: the first third of the book dragged for me, especially Hiram’s POV. IDK if it’s my unfamiliarity with Indian mythology, but I struggled to keep up in the Nightmare Realm. At times the horror aspect was almost too much (not a good time if you’re creeped out by bugs). I also feel like we didn’t get much time with Eshanj and Hiran together.
I hope the author is able to give us Sithara’s story and a conclusion to this epic journey.
Things I liked: Great characters and call-backs to the first book. Lots of adventure. Made me want to read another installment.
Things I didn’t like: the first third of the book dragged for me, especially Hiram’s POV. IDK if it’s my unfamiliarity with Indian mythology, but I struggled to keep up in the Nightmare Realm. At times the horror aspect was almost too much (not a good time if you’re creeped out by bugs). I also feel like we didn’t get much time with Eshanj and Hiran together.
I hope the author is able to give us Sithara’s story and a conclusion to this epic journey.
Read
March 12, 2025I did not finish and I’m not grading this. It is a genre I normally do not touch, more of a horror type. I’m a complete coward about this genre. It is likely for those who read the first book and loved it. I loved the first book but not enough to keep reading this! I’m not finding either of the main characters interesting enough to keep reading this.
Read
October 17, 2024I'm only marking this DNF because the ARC format was wonky on my ereader. I'll read it when it comes out in print.
dnf
March 2, 2025The fact that the first book got 5 stars and this one was a DNF makes me so sad.
August 27, 2025
Phenomenal. I love powerful women.
Read
November 16, 2025DNF (at least for now)
December 29, 2025
4.5⭐
The dedication had my heart skip a beat in recognition❤️
What a rich world building! It's a world full of dark magic and mythology... Wonderful to dive into and loose track of time! ✨
From the creatures to weapons and surroundings this book, like the first book, is beautiful voven with Indian mythology.
And the library of Mahal, it sounds like such a wonderful place to go after this life! Oh to be in that library, what a sweet dream.
TW: misogony, violence, degradation, cruelness, sexism
The dedication had my heart skip a beat in recognition❤️
What a rich world building! It's a world full of dark magic and mythology... Wonderful to dive into and loose track of time! ✨
From the creatures to weapons and surroundings this book, like the first book, is beautiful voven with Indian mythology.
And the library of Mahal, it sounds like such a wonderful place to go after this life! Oh to be in that library, what a sweet dream.
TW: misogony, violence, degradation, cruelness, sexism
January 17, 2025
I thought I wanted to read this book, but I'm just not in the right mood. Maybe another time. #ATouchofBlood #NetGalley
April 4, 2025
A Touch of Blood is the 2nd book by Sajni Patel that I've read. It takes places within the world of the previous book by hers I've read, which was called A Drop of Venom. But I wouldn't call A Touch of Blood a sequel. Because it begins before its' predecessor, and then seems to happen parallel to the previous book. But like A Drop Venom, A Touch of Blood is an Indian twist on a classic Greek Myth. The 1st book retold Medusa. This book is a take on Hades and Persephone.
The protagonist of A Touch of Blood is a young woman named Eshani. She is the eldest sister of Manisha, the main character of A Drop of Venom. When Eshani is 13-years-old, after Manisha has been taken to the temple from the first book, she makes a deal with creatures called the Shades in order to save her people, the Naga.
Several years later, the Shades take Manisha to the Nightmare Realm where she is to marry the Shadow King. Now, like I said, this book is a take on the myth of Hades and Persephone. Eshani is clearly a stand-in for Persephone. You might be tempted to think the Shadow King, Tarak, is analogous to Hades. And I can understand where that line of thought. But now allow me to introduce the other POV character of this book. His name is Hiran. And he is Tarak's half brother. Like Eshani, Hiran had a touch childhood. He, his mother and his sister, Holika were immolated. His mother died. Holika became part of the Nightmare Court, as a Dream Reaver, neither fully alive or dead.
Using her powers, Holika connects Hiran to Eshani though their dreams. They develop a friendship over the years. They final meet in person when Hiran rescues Eshani from Tarak. I should explian here that Hiran works on a ferry with his friend, Rohan, where they transport the souls of the dead. Things are not so great in the Nightmare Realm. The world in besieged by a disease called the White Plague. That's why Tarak is so interested in Eshani, for he wants her to connect the Nightmare Realm to her world. One character affected by the White Plague is Lekha, Eshani's tiger companion. She isn't the only animal friend Eshani has. The cover depicts her alongside a red cobra. The snake's name is Ruhi. This mirrors Manisha having a snake familiar in A Drop of Venom.
In the end, Tarak is defeated. Eshani and Hiran come into their powers. A cure for the White Plauge is found. And Holika is freed from the Nightmare Court. I assume there will be a third book in this series, which, if the end of this book is anything to go on, might center on the middle sister in this family, Eshani's twin sister, Sithara. If that does end up being the case, I look forward to reading such a book.
In some ways, A Touch of Blood was even better than a Drop of Venom. But like the first book, I only rated this book 4 stars. That's because I'm still a little confused by the framing. Either way, I greatly enjoyed it.
The protagonist of A Touch of Blood is a young woman named Eshani. She is the eldest sister of Manisha, the main character of A Drop of Venom. When Eshani is 13-years-old, after Manisha has been taken to the temple from the first book, she makes a deal with creatures called the Shades in order to save her people, the Naga.
Several years later, the Shades take Manisha to the Nightmare Realm where she is to marry the Shadow King. Now, like I said, this book is a take on the myth of Hades and Persephone. Eshani is clearly a stand-in for Persephone. You might be tempted to think the Shadow King, Tarak, is analogous to Hades. And I can understand where that line of thought. But now allow me to introduce the other POV character of this book. His name is Hiran. And he is Tarak's half brother. Like Eshani, Hiran had a touch childhood. He, his mother and his sister, Holika were immolated. His mother died. Holika became part of the Nightmare Court, as a Dream Reaver, neither fully alive or dead.
Using her powers, Holika connects Hiran to Eshani though their dreams. They develop a friendship over the years. They final meet in person when Hiran rescues Eshani from Tarak. I should explian here that Hiran works on a ferry with his friend, Rohan, where they transport the souls of the dead. Things are not so great in the Nightmare Realm. The world in besieged by a disease called the White Plague. That's why Tarak is so interested in Eshani, for he wants her to connect the Nightmare Realm to her world. One character affected by the White Plague is Lekha, Eshani's tiger companion. She isn't the only animal friend Eshani has. The cover depicts her alongside a red cobra. The snake's name is Ruhi. This mirrors Manisha having a snake familiar in A Drop of Venom.
In the end, Tarak is defeated. Eshani and Hiran come into their powers. A cure for the White Plauge is found. And Holika is freed from the Nightmare Court. I assume there will be a third book in this series, which, if the end of this book is anything to go on, might center on the middle sister in this family, Eshani's twin sister, Sithara. If that does end up being the case, I look forward to reading such a book.
In some ways, A Touch of Blood was even better than a Drop of Venom. But like the first book, I only rated this book 4 stars. That's because I'm still a little confused by the framing. Either way, I greatly enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
In order to protect her people, Eshani made a deal – her life in exchange for theirs. But now the time has come to pay the debt, and she's dragged to the Nightmare Realm. But nothing is as it seems. Hiran was a prince of the realm until his father died, leaving his brother to take over. Now, in hiding, he has done his best to help the souls within the Nightmare Realm to pass on, knowing that someday Eshani will be there to help his people – and him – to take down the tyrannical Shadow King. What Eshani doesn't remember is that she’s been dreaming of Hiran for a long time, though his sister has been taking her memories of it, keeping them for her for when the time is right. When Eshani arrives in the Nightmare Realm, she doesn't expect to get pulled into not only politics, but a prophecy that puts her in the middle of everything, but she will need Hiran’s help if she has any hope of surviving the Nightmare Realm and making it back to her people.
This was kind of cool. I like the way the Persephone myth is rewritten here. I also like that we've now gotten a prophecy in regards to the girls, which kind of makes sense that we would get something considering the fact that now two of them have become gods in their own rights and are venomous. Poisonous? Whatever. I did like Eshani and Hiran, but definitely not as much as I liked Manisha and Pratyush. I did like the plot and her being able to control plants, her coming into her right as a goddess especially since she's healing the Nightmare Realm – or attempting to heal the realm – from the sickness. I also like the whole scene towards the end with the dead coming to fight by her side. It’s such a great moment and image. Honestly, if I liked the two main characters a little bit more, I feel like this could have been another five star read for me, but their relationship didn't make sense at times, like, it did? But it didn't? I don't know if that makes sense. But I like the plot, I like the characters for the most part, I like the way the mythology is twisted here. Another fantastic book by this author.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
This was kind of cool. I like the way the Persephone myth is rewritten here. I also like that we've now gotten a prophecy in regards to the girls, which kind of makes sense that we would get something considering the fact that now two of them have become gods in their own rights and are venomous. Poisonous? Whatever. I did like Eshani and Hiran, but definitely not as much as I liked Manisha and Pratyush. I did like the plot and her being able to control plants, her coming into her right as a goddess especially since she's healing the Nightmare Realm – or attempting to heal the realm – from the sickness. I also like the whole scene towards the end with the dead coming to fight by her side. It’s such a great moment and image. Honestly, if I liked the two main characters a little bit more, I feel like this could have been another five star read for me, but their relationship didn't make sense at times, like, it did? But it didn't? I don't know if that makes sense. But I like the plot, I like the characters for the most part, I like the way the mythology is twisted here. Another fantastic book by this author.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
May 14, 2025
rep: indian
trigger and content warnings: war, violence, gore, death, misogyny, depression
a touch of blood by sajni patel is a rich persephone retelling rooted in an indian-inspired backdrop, offering a world full of lush magic, vivid culture, and layered mythology.
we’re introduced to monsters, ghouls, and beings of many kinds, each belonging to a complex, fully realized universe. at the heart of it all is eshani, the little goddess of spring—eldest of three sisters and the key to fulfilling a dark prophecy from the nightmare realm. but with that prophecy comes the potential curse of her own homeland.
eshani would do anything to protect her sisters and her remaining parent. her memories of her father—and the naga people—fighting for freedom and justice fuel her convictions. there’s venom in her blood, both literally and metaphorically, and she must learn to embrace it if she wants to survive and lead.
the white plague acts like a magical zombie virus, infecting and spreading rapidly. its horror looms over the story with tension and urgency. hiran, who has his own share of secrets, is revealed to be much more than he appears. i thought his arc was handled well—his internal struggle, sense of duty, and quiet strength made him a standout character.
early on, it’s revealed that eshani and hiran had met before—not in the waking world, but in the dreamscape. that layer of mystical connection adds intrigue and intimacy to their relationship, even before they officially cross paths in real life. yet, both of them are far from who they once were.
the ending sets the stage perfectly for the final sister’s story, and if sithara’s tale is as chaotic as teased, we’re in for a wild, unforgettable ride.
this book blends mythology, romance, danger, and identity in a way that’s both fierce and tender. i’m already counting down to the next one.
trigger and content warnings: war, violence, gore, death, misogyny, depression
a touch of blood by sajni patel is a rich persephone retelling rooted in an indian-inspired backdrop, offering a world full of lush magic, vivid culture, and layered mythology.
we’re introduced to monsters, ghouls, and beings of many kinds, each belonging to a complex, fully realized universe. at the heart of it all is eshani, the little goddess of spring—eldest of three sisters and the key to fulfilling a dark prophecy from the nightmare realm. but with that prophecy comes the potential curse of her own homeland.
eshani would do anything to protect her sisters and her remaining parent. her memories of her father—and the naga people—fighting for freedom and justice fuel her convictions. there’s venom in her blood, both literally and metaphorically, and she must learn to embrace it if she wants to survive and lead.
You are naga. Rise to your calling.
the white plague acts like a magical zombie virus, infecting and spreading rapidly. its horror looms over the story with tension and urgency. hiran, who has his own share of secrets, is revealed to be much more than he appears. i thought his arc was handled well—his internal struggle, sense of duty, and quiet strength made him a standout character.
early on, it’s revealed that eshani and hiran had met before—not in the waking world, but in the dreamscape. that layer of mystical connection adds intrigue and intimacy to their relationship, even before they officially cross paths in real life. yet, both of them are far from who they once were.
the ending sets the stage perfectly for the final sister’s story, and if sithara’s tale is as chaotic as teased, we’re in for a wild, unforgettable ride.
this book blends mythology, romance, danger, and identity in a way that’s both fierce and tender. i’m already counting down to the next one.
March 17, 2025
The eldest Nagin sister is in debt to death itself. In order to save her loved ones, Eshani makes a deal with the gatekeeper of the Nightmare realm. When she is brought down to fulfill her debt, she encounters a ruined world hanging by a thread. Eshani is intended to be a tool to gain immortality for the Underworld's tyrannical king, but she has other plans.
3.5 STARS!
What I liked:
The book had an intriguing premise, and it was not a bad read at all! The beginning and end of the book were both interesting and I was invested. The world building was well done and unique. The writing style made it feel like I was reading an epic tale of sorts, and Lekha and Holika were gems. It didn't just feel like a Persephone retelling but an entirely new thing at the same time.
What I didn't like:
Certain parts in the middle of the book dragged on a bit, and while things were happening, it wasn't the clearest. A lot of side characters didn't feel very developed and we didn't get to know them as well. I wish we had gotten more moments with Hiran and Eshani, because I loved their interactions and I felt like they deserved more time in the spotlight.
Overall:
It was a good book and I will be reading the next installment with Sithara's story. I hope we get to see more of Hiran and Eshani's dynamic, for they totally rocked it. Gold stars all around for Ms. Patel and her lovely book!
3.5 STARS!
What I liked:
The book had an intriguing premise, and it was not a bad read at all! The beginning and end of the book were both interesting and I was invested. The world building was well done and unique. The writing style made it feel like I was reading an epic tale of sorts, and Lekha and Holika were gems. It didn't just feel like a Persephone retelling but an entirely new thing at the same time.
What I didn't like:
Certain parts in the middle of the book dragged on a bit, and while things were happening, it wasn't the clearest. A lot of side characters didn't feel very developed and we didn't get to know them as well. I wish we had gotten more moments with Hiran and Eshani, because I loved their interactions and I felt like they deserved more time in the spotlight.
Overall:
It was a good book and I will be reading the next installment with Sithara's story. I hope we get to see more of Hiran and Eshani's dynamic, for they totally rocked it. Gold stars all around for Ms. Patel and her lovely book!
December 27, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Disney Publishing Worldwide for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book is one of my most anticipated releases of 2025 and I was ELATED to be able to read it early. What a wild ride this was. A Drop Of Venom was one of my fave reads this year and this book takes place around the same time. We follow Eshani, Manisha's older sister, who is surviving a war with her family the Naga people. She makes a deal with shades in order to save her family and the dark deal comes back to haunt her. We also follow Hiran, a disgraced prince of the underworld who is in hiding from his horrible older brother who views him as a threat to the throne. Together, they must work to save both realms and their families from the terrorizing Shadow King and the plauge that is threatening to wipe out the underworld.
I truly loved how this series is meshing indian and greek mythologies. The way the underworld is described is truly haunting and got me a lil spooked at times! I also loved the new details we learn about the world and how it has influenced what we read in A Drop of Venom. This book is just as dark as the first, lots of gore and rape culture is present. Keep that in mind if you would like to pick this series up. I am very excited for this trilogy to be completed, I will be hoping to get approved for the arc of book 3 whenever that comes out!
This book is one of my most anticipated releases of 2025 and I was ELATED to be able to read it early. What a wild ride this was. A Drop Of Venom was one of my fave reads this year and this book takes place around the same time. We follow Eshani, Manisha's older sister, who is surviving a war with her family the Naga people. She makes a deal with shades in order to save her family and the dark deal comes back to haunt her. We also follow Hiran, a disgraced prince of the underworld who is in hiding from his horrible older brother who views him as a threat to the throne. Together, they must work to save both realms and their families from the terrorizing Shadow King and the plauge that is threatening to wipe out the underworld.
I truly loved how this series is meshing indian and greek mythologies. The way the underworld is described is truly haunting and got me a lil spooked at times! I also loved the new details we learn about the world and how it has influenced what we read in A Drop of Venom. This book is just as dark as the first, lots of gore and rape culture is present. Keep that in mind if you would like to pick this series up. I am very excited for this trilogy to be completed, I will be hoping to get approved for the arc of book 3 whenever that comes out!
October 19, 2025
So nice to read a story about a powerful woman who is likeable and consistently finds ways to save herself (and the hero). It was also well paced (only the beginning felt a little slow until Eshani made it to the shadowland). The main and side characters were all interesting. The world building was my favourite part—esp learning about Holika’s powers and the shadow powers others have.
I liked that Eshani and Hiran both had their own well-developed back stories and traumas to work through as individuals with help from their family (instead of each other). It really set them up as independent characters who have their own lives but are working together toward a goal—instead of one character existing only to support the other.
My only gripe was that I wanted more scenes with both of them together because it felt like they were apart most of the story. A better balance between their independent stories and the common one would have made this 5 stars.
Overall, I enjoyed this much more than the first book—maybe because I love retellings of Persephone, but esp because everything from the characters to the world-building and mixing of myths was so interesting and well thought out. I look forward to seeing this story and the first one get tied up in the next book (and seeing more Holika!).
I liked that Eshani and Hiran both had their own well-developed back stories and traumas to work through as individuals with help from their family (instead of each other). It really set them up as independent characters who have their own lives but are working together toward a goal—instead of one character existing only to support the other.
My only gripe was that I wanted more scenes with both of them together because it felt like they were apart most of the story. A better balance between their independent stories and the common one would have made this 5 stars.
Overall, I enjoyed this much more than the first book—maybe because I love retellings of Persephone, but esp because everything from the characters to the world-building and mixing of myths was so interesting and well thought out. I look forward to seeing this story and the first one get tied up in the next book (and seeing more Holika!).
March 3, 2025
Gatekeeper of the Nightmare Realm, Hiran is in hiding form his older brother. To defeat his brother, he’ll need to keep his Shadow self in check. After making a deal with the shades to protect her fellow naga, Eshani starts having dreams about Hiran’s sister, Holika. Soon, the shades call on repayment. To pay the debt and fulfill a prophecy, Eshani must find Hiran. Soon after entering the Nightmare Realm, however, she is taken by the Shadow King, Hiran’s older brother. To save herself and her family, she must master her powers. As the two’s fates intertwine, can they save the Nightmare Realm, their families, and themselves?
The plot is full of adventure, is well developed, and full of twists and turns. The character are well developed, authentic, and believable. The world building is well done and draws the reader into the story. Readers who like fantasy, mythology, and adventure will want to pick this one up. Due to the mature, on-page content in the prequel, this book is best suited for high school and public libraries. Recommended for collections where mythology and adventure novels are popular.
Please Note: A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. No other compensation was received.
The plot is full of adventure, is well developed, and full of twists and turns. The character are well developed, authentic, and believable. The world building is well done and draws the reader into the story. Readers who like fantasy, mythology, and adventure will want to pick this one up. Due to the mature, on-page content in the prequel, this book is best suited for high school and public libraries. Recommended for collections where mythology and adventure novels are popular.
Please Note: A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. No other compensation was received.
July 24, 2025
This is a solid next installment in the Venom series. Patel reimagines Greek myths through the lens of Indian folklore. Here we have a Persephone and Hades retelling. What keeps it being a five star for me is:
1) key concepts of the underworld (the dakini) weren't really explored despite being key to what seems like it was supposed to be a plot twist / foundational to the plot and characters? There's a monolog or two that tries to tell you, but it's separate from instead of integrated into the story. This is related to a big positive of this retelling - Patel gets how destruction and growth are intertwined, and both gods of the underworld have aspects of each!
2) omg the rom com movie tropes. I don't ding for this, because that's what the writer is, but definitely more than the last installment, or I had forgotten how much. The target audience will likely eat it up tho.
But #1 is huge! There were also some pacing issues that fleshing this bit out better could have improved. Finally it's not a cliffhanger ending, but definitely setting up book three in cheesy movie trailer fashion. When you put the book down at 99% because that can wait until tomorrow... And it did.
I will read book 3, but am concerned about declining story telling / heavier lean into tropes
1) key concepts of the underworld (the dakini) weren't really explored despite being key to what seems like it was supposed to be a plot twist / foundational to the plot and characters? There's a monolog or two that tries to tell you, but it's separate from instead of integrated into the story. This is related to a big positive of this retelling - Patel gets how destruction and growth are intertwined, and both gods of the underworld have aspects of each!
2) omg the rom com movie tropes. I don't ding for this, because that's what the writer is, but definitely more than the last installment, or I had forgotten how much. The target audience will likely eat it up tho.
But #1 is huge! There were also some pacing issues that fleshing this bit out better could have improved. Finally it's not a cliffhanger ending, but definitely setting up book three in cheesy movie trailer fashion. When you put the book down at 99% because that can wait until tomorrow... And it did.
I will read book 3, but am concerned about declining story telling / heavier lean into tropes
December 14, 2025
This is a dark fantasy full of opulence and opulent violence. While I gave this the same rating as A Touch of Blood, I don't think it is as good as the first installment in this world. I had the same problem that I encountered in the first book. The first 50% was confusing and I had to reread. The latter 50% was compelling, fast-paced, and badass! Perhaps this is Patel's way.
I loved Eshani. Her inner monologue was rich and detailed. Her love for her family, her acceptance of others, and her protection of more than herself are admirable qualities fully developed in the story. Her history and motivations are strongly explained, so her choices ring true. Unfortunately, Hiran was slightly less well-rounded. His backstory was explained, but the resulting morals and values he has were not. This made the relationship developing between Eshani and Hiran feel disingenuous, or even manipulative.
Like the first book, the themes and imagery in this novel are not for the faint of heart. Patel does not shy away from gruesome descriptions, violence, sexual predation, and elements of body horror. This story belonged in the garden of the Underworld--dark and trapped but also alluring and hopeful. I truly loved how vivid the imagery was--beautiful but deadly.
I loved Eshani. Her inner monologue was rich and detailed. Her love for her family, her acceptance of others, and her protection of more than herself are admirable qualities fully developed in the story. Her history and motivations are strongly explained, so her choices ring true. Unfortunately, Hiran was slightly less well-rounded. His backstory was explained, but the resulting morals and values he has were not. This made the relationship developing between Eshani and Hiran feel disingenuous, or even manipulative.
Like the first book, the themes and imagery in this novel are not for the faint of heart. Patel does not shy away from gruesome descriptions, violence, sexual predation, and elements of body horror. This story belonged in the garden of the Underworld--dark and trapped but also alluring and hopeful. I truly loved how vivid the imagery was--beautiful but deadly.
June 13, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Disney Publishing for an advanced copy of this book.
Sajni Patel's second entry in the Venom series follows Eshani, elder sister of Manisha, and Hiran, a son of the previous Shadow King who ruled the Nightmare Realm. Eshani made a deal with the shades to save her people, and she finds herself in the Nightmare Realm, which is plagued by an infection that threatens to destroy it. She and Hiran must embrace their own powers in order to save the realm and their respective loved ones.
As with A Drop of Poison, I was thoroughly engrossed by the world building and mythical, fantastical creatures. However, A Touch of Blood thankfully does not include the abundance of violence against women present in the first novel. I liked the dual perspectives of Eshani and Hiran, and both characters' sisters were a delight. I'm also always a sucker for an animal companion, and a lovely and deadly tiger named Lekha fits the bill! I look forward to the next installment in this series (especially if it follows Sithara, Eshani's twin).
Sajni Patel's second entry in the Venom series follows Eshani, elder sister of Manisha, and Hiran, a son of the previous Shadow King who ruled the Nightmare Realm. Eshani made a deal with the shades to save her people, and she finds herself in the Nightmare Realm, which is plagued by an infection that threatens to destroy it. She and Hiran must embrace their own powers in order to save the realm and their respective loved ones.
As with A Drop of Poison, I was thoroughly engrossed by the world building and mythical, fantastical creatures. However, A Touch of Blood thankfully does not include the abundance of violence against women present in the first novel. I liked the dual perspectives of Eshani and Hiran, and both characters' sisters were a delight. I'm also always a sucker for an animal companion, and a lovely and deadly tiger named Lekha fits the bill! I look forward to the next installment in this series (especially if it follows Sithara, Eshani's twin).
April 21, 2025
This is the second in the Venom series, and I would recommend starting with it, as this is not an easy title to come into without that background (as I did).
Eshani, in a time of war, makes a deal with the Shades in order to save her family. The time to pay that debt has now come due, and she finds herself attempting to navigate the Nightmare Realm. She has met Hiran in her dreams, and when they meet in her new reality, she has to figure out if she can trust him, or if she even remembers him.
The shifting narration and time periods made this one challenging to follow at times, and I would need to pick the reader I recommended this to carefully because of that. The world-building is amazing and the characters are well-defined. Readers who know the Persephone and Hades myth will enjoy finding the parallels here.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-arc.
3 stars due to the challenges of keeping the timelines straight.
Eshani, in a time of war, makes a deal with the Shades in order to save her family. The time to pay that debt has now come due, and she finds herself attempting to navigate the Nightmare Realm. She has met Hiran in her dreams, and when they meet in her new reality, she has to figure out if she can trust him, or if she even remembers him.
The shifting narration and time periods made this one challenging to follow at times, and I would need to pick the reader I recommended this to carefully because of that. The world-building is amazing and the characters are well-defined. Readers who know the Persephone and Hades myth will enjoy finding the parallels here.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-arc.
3 stars due to the challenges of keeping the timelines straight.
May 18, 2025
0Maybe it's because I'm in a bit of a reading slump, but I had a hard time getting into this book.
I think the lore with this one left me a little bit confused at times - there was a lot to take in and I think my eyes glazed over a bit at these parts.
One discrepancy I noticed was that Eshani was being held in a room that was specifically mentioned to be in the center of the floor with no windows, yet in the next chapter, Hiran busts through a window to attempt to save her and she's right there.
I did like that the two perspectives did offer their individual value to the story. I distinctly remember the first book not doing very well in this regard, so I'm glad there was writing growth.
Overall, this was a decent story and it seems there's going to be a third book that focuses on Sithara which I will definitely keep an eye out for, but I think my reading slump and the big info dumps prevented me from fully becoming engaged in the story.
I think the lore with this one left me a little bit confused at times - there was a lot to take in and I think my eyes glazed over a bit at these parts.
One discrepancy I noticed was that Eshani was being held in a room that was specifically mentioned to be in the center of the floor with no windows, yet in the next chapter, Hiran busts through a window to attempt to save her and she's right there.
I did like that the two perspectives did offer their individual value to the story. I distinctly remember the first book not doing very well in this regard, so I'm glad there was writing growth.
Overall, this was a decent story and it seems there's going to be a third book that focuses on Sithara which I will definitely keep an eye out for, but I think my reading slump and the big info dumps prevented me from fully becoming engaged in the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2025
Powerful and vivid in the cover, in the storytelling, in the Indian mythology, in the connection to the Persephone myth, and simply Eshani herself.
It's evident Patel lives, breaths, and eats her story while she's creating it because there's every drop of her blood, sweat, and tears on the page. This is the second in (I would think) a trilogy featuring the characters that you see glimpses of in the other books. In this one, a girl who sacrifices constantly for her family and her community and she's going to do it again by going to the Nightmare Realm to fulfil the bargain to save the community from war. But while there, she meets the horrid Shadow King and now also Hiran who has been a stowaway into the world and will prove to be a savior to many if they play their cards right.
Evocative storytelling. A fantastic standalone in the realm of Venom.
It's evident Patel lives, breaths, and eats her story while she's creating it because there's every drop of her blood, sweat, and tears on the page. This is the second in (I would think) a trilogy featuring the characters that you see glimpses of in the other books. In this one, a girl who sacrifices constantly for her family and her community and she's going to do it again by going to the Nightmare Realm to fulfil the bargain to save the community from war. But while there, she meets the horrid Shadow King and now also Hiran who has been a stowaway into the world and will prove to be a savior to many if they play their cards right.
Evocative storytelling. A fantastic standalone in the realm of Venom.
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