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Rages #2
The Unrelenting Earth
In this dazzling sequel to the The Surviving Sky, Ahilya and Iravan risk everything—their lives, their culture, and their fragile marriage—in pursuit of the earth-shattering truth about their existence.
"Breathtakingly inventive" epic science-fantasy inspired by Hindu philosophy, for fans of N.K. Jemisin and Tasha Suri.
Two months have passed since Ahilya and Iravan learned the devastating truths behind the earthrages. As the cosmic creatures struggle to break into the world, and Nakshar's architecture disintegrates, the desperate council summons their sister ashrams to a Conclave, to discuss the future of life in the skies.
Ahilya, now a councillor, is determined to share the truth about the cosmic beings and the nature of Ecstatic trajection so she can liberate ordinary citizens and save the condemned architects. Her conviction has alienated her allies and created dangerous enemies. Only Iravan has a chance of persuading the Conclave that Ecstatics are not unstable, but he returns from the jungle struggling with his own Ecstasy. He has little control over his second-self, the primal falcon yaksha, and finds the Conclave hostile to his cause.
As strange, deadly storms break out, threatening refuge even in the skies, Iravan and the other Ecstatic architects face brutal reprisals. And with the barrier restraining the cosmic beings thinning, Ahilya and Iravan know they are running out of time to save everyone. Thrust into the center of the storm, both will have to confront what matters most to them, who they really are, and what it means for the future of humanity.
"Breathtakingly inventive" epic science-fantasy inspired by Hindu philosophy, for fans of N.K. Jemisin and Tasha Suri.
Two months have passed since Ahilya and Iravan learned the devastating truths behind the earthrages. As the cosmic creatures struggle to break into the world, and Nakshar's architecture disintegrates, the desperate council summons their sister ashrams to a Conclave, to discuss the future of life in the skies.
Ahilya, now a councillor, is determined to share the truth about the cosmic beings and the nature of Ecstatic trajection so she can liberate ordinary citizens and save the condemned architects. Her conviction has alienated her allies and created dangerous enemies. Only Iravan has a chance of persuading the Conclave that Ecstatics are not unstable, but he returns from the jungle struggling with his own Ecstasy. He has little control over his second-self, the primal falcon yaksha, and finds the Conclave hostile to his cause.
As strange, deadly storms break out, threatening refuge even in the skies, Iravan and the other Ecstatic architects face brutal reprisals. And with the barrier restraining the cosmic beings thinning, Ahilya and Iravan know they are running out of time to save everyone. Thrust into the center of the storm, both will have to confront what matters most to them, who they really are, and what it means for the future of humanity.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published June 18, 2024
29 people are currently reading
911 people want to read
About the author
Kritika H. Rao
6 books295 followersKritika H. Rao is a science-fiction and fantasy writer, who has lived in India, Australia, Canada and The Sultanate of Oman. Kritika’s stories are influenced by her lived experiences, and often explore themes of consciousness, self vs. the world, and identity. She drops in and out of social media; you might catch her on Twitter or Instagram @KritikaHRao. Visit her online at www.kritikahrao.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
November 20, 2025
*Updates:
-- My second Re-Read was even more awesome than the first one... more updates on the improvements I've gathered upon further introspections.
Luscious and full of possibilities. Some books you read, some you endure, and some of them...they transport you smack dab into an alternate dimension of our collective unconscious and racial memories of thought!
Eternally reminding us that we yet live in the Moment; full of infinite probabilities in an infinite multiverse that means so much more than can be comprehended by our finite minds. Two roads in sleep, and yet I rouse to many...
This duology is one such and I give my highest recommendation for those fans of that good 'ol literary food for thought, about the deepest insights and hypotheses on our most fundamental questions regarding existence, life, transmogrification, and even remembrance of past lives...
Read I: 2024
Read II: 2025
-- My second Re-Read was even more awesome than the first one... more updates on the improvements I've gathered upon further introspections.
Luscious and full of possibilities. Some books you read, some you endure, and some of them...they transport you smack dab into an alternate dimension of our collective unconscious and racial memories of thought!
Eternally reminding us that we yet live in the Moment; full of infinite probabilities in an infinite multiverse that means so much more than can be comprehended by our finite minds. Two roads in sleep, and yet I rouse to many...
This duology is one such and I give my highest recommendation for those fans of that good 'ol literary food for thought, about the deepest insights and hypotheses on our most fundamental questions regarding existence, life, transmogrification, and even remembrance of past lives...
Read I: 2024
Read II: 2025
November 22, 2025
Ahilya and Iravan know the truth about the earthrages. Now the problem is convincing everyone else. Their society is at a crossroads. And the couple needs to do everything they can to make sure their people take the right turn, before it’s too late.
Ahilya wants to convince everybody of what she knows to be true, but those in power don’t trust her. Words are like weapons, especially in uncertain times.
Iravan was a master of his craft. Now, he’s just beginning to learn what the falcon Yaksha can teach him. It’s a difficult process where patience is key. All his life he’s been told that the state he now finds himself in is wrong. Now he needs to fight that established belief and make peace with the fact that the change he is experiencing is right. He needs time to accept his new self and gain the necessary skills. But his own people don’t trust him anymore. And a major threat is coming for them. So he doesn’t have a lot of time to spare.
The main difference between this sequel and the previous book is that the previous plot was a mystery at its core. Now the core mystery has been solved, but the main characters still need everyone to believe them so they can save the world. To do this, they need to change the entire way their society works and has sustained itself for so long. The only way to achieve this is by gaining more power to make significant change possible. Which makes this an even more political plot than the previous book. Though there still is a bit of mystery in the form of Iravan’s visions.
One of the key themes here is that real change is difficult and takes time. You see this in the character arcs, but also in the plot. When Ahilya tells her people that their way of life is wrong, they can either believe her or not. For the people in power, it’s a choice between their power and survival. But it’s mostly a choice between the inconvenient truth and a convenient lie. If they don’t believe her, everything stays the same. It’s a system that they feel has proven itself as it has sustained them for so long. Even though it may be a flawed system, people find safety and comfort in knowing that their society works. But if they believe her, that changes everything. What will it bring them or where will it lead them? They don’t know. And fear of the unknown is a primal fear.
At the heart of this story, both main characters have to change and accept the new people they are becoming in a world that’s changing in a way they’re just beginning to understand. Just like in the first book, they’re not always on the same page. Despite the main characters having their differences, their relationship remains strong. But can it stay strong as it gets put to the test multiple times throughout the story? The key word here is balance. They need to find a healthy balance in their relationship. That’s what they are missing and what they need to find to keep their relationship going strong.
Another thing worth mentioning is that we learn more about the plant magic system and the world building, but it can also be confusing. The thing is that it’s really fascinating and we do learn a lot about it in this book, but it’s never really properly explained how it all works. The more information we get about it, the less I seem to understand it. So a bit more explanation about how the magic system works could have helped here.
Overall, a strong sequel, though the focus is a bit too much on the politics for me and the magic system could use a bit more explanation. Similar to the previous book, this sequel is quite slow-paced and very character-driven. Though it doesn’t take so long for the plot to actually start. The ending also makes it clear that we’re heading towards an epic finale to end this trilogy.
Ahilya wants to convince everybody of what she knows to be true, but those in power don’t trust her. Words are like weapons, especially in uncertain times.
Iravan was a master of his craft. Now, he’s just beginning to learn what the falcon Yaksha can teach him. It’s a difficult process where patience is key. All his life he’s been told that the state he now finds himself in is wrong. Now he needs to fight that established belief and make peace with the fact that the change he is experiencing is right. He needs time to accept his new self and gain the necessary skills. But his own people don’t trust him anymore. And a major threat is coming for them. So he doesn’t have a lot of time to spare.
The main difference between this sequel and the previous book is that the previous plot was a mystery at its core. Now the core mystery has been solved, but the main characters still need everyone to believe them so they can save the world. To do this, they need to change the entire way their society works and has sustained itself for so long. The only way to achieve this is by gaining more power to make significant change possible. Which makes this an even more political plot than the previous book. Though there still is a bit of mystery in the form of Iravan’s visions.
One of the key themes here is that real change is difficult and takes time. You see this in the character arcs, but also in the plot. When Ahilya tells her people that their way of life is wrong, they can either believe her or not. For the people in power, it’s a choice between their power and survival. But it’s mostly a choice between the inconvenient truth and a convenient lie. If they don’t believe her, everything stays the same. It’s a system that they feel has proven itself as it has sustained them for so long. Even though it may be a flawed system, people find safety and comfort in knowing that their society works. But if they believe her, that changes everything. What will it bring them or where will it lead them? They don’t know. And fear of the unknown is a primal fear.
At the heart of this story, both main characters have to change and accept the new people they are becoming in a world that’s changing in a way they’re just beginning to understand. Just like in the first book, they’re not always on the same page. Despite the main characters having their differences, their relationship remains strong. But can it stay strong as it gets put to the test multiple times throughout the story? The key word here is balance. They need to find a healthy balance in their relationship. That’s what they are missing and what they need to find to keep their relationship going strong.
Another thing worth mentioning is that we learn more about the plant magic system and the world building, but it can also be confusing. The thing is that it’s really fascinating and we do learn a lot about it in this book, but it’s never really properly explained how it all works. The more information we get about it, the less I seem to understand it. So a bit more explanation about how the magic system works could have helped here.
Overall, a strong sequel, though the focus is a bit too much on the politics for me and the magic system could use a bit more explanation. Similar to the previous book, this sequel is quite slow-paced and very character-driven. Though it doesn’t take so long for the plot to actually start. The ending also makes it clear that we’re heading towards an epic finale to end this trilogy.
May 26, 2024
4.0 Stars
This is one of those cases where the sequel is even stronger than the first book. I liked the worldbuilding in the Surviving Sky but I felt there was room for growth.
I was happy that this second book resolved a lot of my quibbles with the previous novel. The characters felt more developed with stronger with a more well fleshed out world.
I enjoyed the plot progression in this one and look forward to the next volume when it is released.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This is one of those cases where the sequel is even stronger than the first book. I liked the worldbuilding in the Surviving Sky but I felt there was room for growth.
I was happy that this second book resolved a lot of my quibbles with the previous novel. The characters felt more developed with stronger with a more well fleshed out world.
I enjoyed the plot progression in this one and look forward to the next volume when it is released.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
July 2, 2024
Best read of 2024 with Ruocchio's Book 6 🏆
In English in the comments ⤵️
"Avis" à chaud ✨
Vous connaissez cette sensation ?
Celle qu'un livre a été écrit pour vous? Eh bien c'est ce que j'avais eu avec le tome 1 et Rao renouvelle l'exploit avec cette superbe suite qui va direct dans mon top de l'année et peut être même ma meilleure lecture de 2024 avec le tome 6 de Ruocchio !
C'est simple, j'en ressors vidé, épuisé, émerveillé. Je n'ai plus envie de toucher un autre livre, j'ai envie de continuer à m'imaginer dans celui ci et digérer ma lecture !
Car quelle lecture ça a été 😱💗😭
Alors oui, c'est un roman qui n'est pas aisé et qui peut être exigeant, parfois plus que le tome 1 c'est dire! Le système de magie est totalement fou et révolutionnaire mais parfois pas forcément compréhensible tout de suite. Mais au fur et à mesure de votre lecture, tout s'éclaircit ! 🥰💗
Cette série fait partie des rares univers où tout est en corrélation, chaque éléments étant liés aux autres ; de fait, les personnages, la magie, le Worldbuilding ainsi que les concepts de philosophie hindouiste sont inextricablement liés et rend le tout totalement cohérent, bluffant et brillant.
C'est pour moi un superbe Hard Science-Fantasy, et l'autrice est vraiment talentueuse pour arriver à nous faire ressentir tout ce qu'elle nous offre.
Les personnages sont très réalistes, et j'ai adoré voir combien l'autrice joue des effets de miroirs entre des situations vécues par l'un ou par l'autre d'un volume à un autre, et qui permet au personnage d'en face de mieux comprendre les émotions et réactions de l'autre.
Le Worldbuilding reste incroyable, et d'une très grande richesse, de même que la magie qui au final maintient aussi l'ordre et le système de castes en place. Mais les choses pourraient bien changer au vue des révélations de la fin du tome 1.
Aujourd'hui l'heure est au travail en commun, mais comment y parvenir avec les peines qui subsistent en chacun? Et comment y parvenir quand il semble que nos deux héros aient deux agendas bien distincts.
C'est là encore la force de l'autrice qui parvient à nous faire ressentir toutes les émotions de Ahilya et Aravan et bien que ce tome ci nous offre parfois plus la possibilité de donner raison à l'un plus qu'à l'autre, contrairement au tome 1, j'aime tellement ces personnages que je me refuse à prendre partie... Et pourtant...
Si la philosophie hindoue prend une place importante dans la construction de l'univers de Rao ; des thèmes comme le Dharma qui représente le devoir et la responsabilité que chacun a envers soi-même, sa famille et la société, ou encore la loi du Karma qui fait référence à la loi de cause à effet, selon laquelle chaque action entraîne une conséquence, qu’elle soit positive ou négative ; il est un concept qui semble majeur dans la série, celui de la métempsycose , la transmigration des âmes, aussi appelé réincarnation ! C'est le concept de l'immortalité de l'âme qui se réincarne dans un être matériel. C'est une errance douloureuse car l'âme est conduite à revivre à nouveau les difficultés du monde. Le but suprême est de quitter et oublier les préoccupations matérielles afin de briser le cycle des réincarnations et libérer l'âme des tourments. Mais si on croit à ce concept, ne peut on pas y voir JUSTEMENT, le fait que notre âme, tant qu'elle se réincarne, reste immortelle ? Et donc le désir de poursuivre le cycle des réincarnations ?
Deux idées se confrontent au sein de ce même concept. Deux idées que l'on retrouve dans le roman et donne une saveur particulière, philosophique à l'intrigue principale.😱
Ces concepts sont vraiment au cœur de la psyché de nos personnages et nous permet en tant que lecteur de prendre parfois partie, car parfois la différence entre ce qui est bien et ce qui est juste, peut être vraiment fine.
En tout cas, le concept de réincarnation et de l'immortalité de l'âme reste la trame de fond de la série. Et encore une fois, on voit combien l'autrice a savamment travaillé son récit pour que tout s'imbrique totalement !
Avez vous déjà ressenti cette émotion ? Celle qu'un livre a été écrit pour vous? C'est mon sentiment depuis le tome 1 de la série ; une série qui trône maintenant parmi mes préférées de tous les temps et je suis heureux de dire qu'elle arrive en plus en France, les droits ayant été achetés !!! 🥰💗💕🇮🇳
In English in the comments ⤵️
"Avis" à chaud ✨
Vous connaissez cette sensation ?
Celle qu'un livre a été écrit pour vous? Eh bien c'est ce que j'avais eu avec le tome 1 et Rao renouvelle l'exploit avec cette superbe suite qui va direct dans mon top de l'année et peut être même ma meilleure lecture de 2024 avec le tome 6 de Ruocchio !
C'est simple, j'en ressors vidé, épuisé, émerveillé. Je n'ai plus envie de toucher un autre livre, j'ai envie de continuer à m'imaginer dans celui ci et digérer ma lecture !
Car quelle lecture ça a été 😱💗😭
Alors oui, c'est un roman qui n'est pas aisé et qui peut être exigeant, parfois plus que le tome 1 c'est dire! Le système de magie est totalement fou et révolutionnaire mais parfois pas forcément compréhensible tout de suite. Mais au fur et à mesure de votre lecture, tout s'éclaircit ! 🥰💗
Cette série fait partie des rares univers où tout est en corrélation, chaque éléments étant liés aux autres ; de fait, les personnages, la magie, le Worldbuilding ainsi que les concepts de philosophie hindouiste sont inextricablement liés et rend le tout totalement cohérent, bluffant et brillant.
C'est pour moi un superbe Hard Science-Fantasy, et l'autrice est vraiment talentueuse pour arriver à nous faire ressentir tout ce qu'elle nous offre.
Les personnages sont très réalistes, et j'ai adoré voir combien l'autrice joue des effets de miroirs entre des situations vécues par l'un ou par l'autre d'un volume à un autre, et qui permet au personnage d'en face de mieux comprendre les émotions et réactions de l'autre.
Le Worldbuilding reste incroyable, et d'une très grande richesse, de même que la magie qui au final maintient aussi l'ordre et le système de castes en place. Mais les choses pourraient bien changer au vue des révélations de la fin du tome 1.
Aujourd'hui l'heure est au travail en commun, mais comment y parvenir avec les peines qui subsistent en chacun? Et comment y parvenir quand il semble que nos deux héros aient deux agendas bien distincts.
C'est là encore la force de l'autrice qui parvient à nous faire ressentir toutes les émotions de Ahilya et Aravan et bien que ce tome ci nous offre parfois plus la possibilité de donner raison à l'un plus qu'à l'autre, contrairement au tome 1, j'aime tellement ces personnages que je me refuse à prendre partie... Et pourtant...
Si la philosophie hindoue prend une place importante dans la construction de l'univers de Rao ; des thèmes comme le Dharma qui représente le devoir et la responsabilité que chacun a envers soi-même, sa famille et la société, ou encore la loi du Karma qui fait référence à la loi de cause à effet, selon laquelle chaque action entraîne une conséquence, qu’elle soit positive ou négative ; il est un concept qui semble majeur dans la série, celui de la métempsycose , la transmigration des âmes, aussi appelé réincarnation ! C'est le concept de l'immortalité de l'âme qui se réincarne dans un être matériel. C'est une errance douloureuse car l'âme est conduite à revivre à nouveau les difficultés du monde. Le but suprême est de quitter et oublier les préoccupations matérielles afin de briser le cycle des réincarnations et libérer l'âme des tourments. Mais si on croit à ce concept, ne peut on pas y voir JUSTEMENT, le fait que notre âme, tant qu'elle se réincarne, reste immortelle ? Et donc le désir de poursuivre le cycle des réincarnations ?
Deux idées se confrontent au sein de ce même concept. Deux idées que l'on retrouve dans le roman et donne une saveur particulière, philosophique à l'intrigue principale.😱
Ces concepts sont vraiment au cœur de la psyché de nos personnages et nous permet en tant que lecteur de prendre parfois partie, car parfois la différence entre ce qui est bien et ce qui est juste, peut être vraiment fine.
En tout cas, le concept de réincarnation et de l'immortalité de l'âme reste la trame de fond de la série. Et encore une fois, on voit combien l'autrice a savamment travaillé son récit pour que tout s'imbrique totalement !
Avez vous déjà ressenti cette émotion ? Celle qu'un livre a été écrit pour vous? C'est mon sentiment depuis le tome 1 de la série ; une série qui trône maintenant parmi mes préférées de tous les temps et je suis heureux de dire qu'elle arrive en plus en France, les droits ayant été achetés !!! 🥰💗💕🇮🇳
April 24, 2024
Unfortunately, book 2 in the "The Rages" series was a complete miss for me, which is a shock since I really enjoyed book 1. My biggest drawbacks were:
-the magic system made no sense
-the book was way too long and felt like a chore to read
-the author should have found a way to end the series with this book (I think it easily could have been done!) but instead, is dragging it on to be at least one more book
My biggest issue is that I cannot understand the magic system. I didn't understand it in book one, and then it became infinitely more complex. I even read the glossary of magic words and still could not parse the difference between the moment, the resonance, the deepness, etc. This is a huge detriment to the reader, because every scene from Iravan's point of view is all about trajection and the different levels he is using. The first 20% of the book was just scene after scene of ectastic "trajection", so not understanding it made the book incredibly difficult to follow and get into.
Another complaint is that nothing interesting happens for about 50% of the book. When I finally became interested, it was always Ahilya's point of view I enjoyed because she didn't traject, so no need to understand the magic system. There were just way too many scenes with the vaguely described magic system throughout (especially at the end) and it made picking up this book a chore. I actively did not want to read, and that very rarely happens to me-I read every single day! I had to force my way through this book and I wish it had a conclusive ending because I will not be suffering through book 3.
The book was also just way too long; many of the trajection/ecstatic scenes could have been cut, and at this point I am tired of hearing Ahilya and Iravan complain about their relationship. Clearly they should not be together.
You may like this book if you enjoyed book 1. The world building is still super cool, with the Ashrams in the sky and the earth being uninhabitable due to the rages. You may also enjoy this series if you like a mix of sci-fantasy, and can understand this complex magic system. 3/5 stars for me because it's a cool concept that I just can't wrap my head around.
Thank you so much to netgalley and Titan Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I also want to put one trigger warning in a spoiler below that could be a huge drawback for some readers:
SPOILER
TW: miscarriage
-the magic system made no sense
-the book was way too long and felt like a chore to read
-the author should have found a way to end the series with this book (I think it easily could have been done!) but instead, is dragging it on to be at least one more book
My biggest issue is that I cannot understand the magic system. I didn't understand it in book one, and then it became infinitely more complex. I even read the glossary of magic words and still could not parse the difference between the moment, the resonance, the deepness, etc. This is a huge detriment to the reader, because every scene from Iravan's point of view is all about trajection and the different levels he is using. The first 20% of the book was just scene after scene of ectastic "trajection", so not understanding it made the book incredibly difficult to follow and get into.
Another complaint is that nothing interesting happens for about 50% of the book. When I finally became interested, it was always Ahilya's point of view I enjoyed because she didn't traject, so no need to understand the magic system. There were just way too many scenes with the vaguely described magic system throughout (especially at the end) and it made picking up this book a chore. I actively did not want to read, and that very rarely happens to me-I read every single day! I had to force my way through this book and I wish it had a conclusive ending because I will not be suffering through book 3.
The book was also just way too long; many of the trajection/ecstatic scenes could have been cut, and at this point I am tired of hearing Ahilya and Iravan complain about their relationship. Clearly they should not be together.
You may like this book if you enjoyed book 1. The world building is still super cool, with the Ashrams in the sky and the earth being uninhabitable due to the rages. You may also enjoy this series if you like a mix of sci-fantasy, and can understand this complex magic system. 3/5 stars for me because it's a cool concept that I just can't wrap my head around.
Thank you so much to netgalley and Titan Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I also want to put one trigger warning in a spoiler below that could be a huge drawback for some readers:
SPOILER
TW: miscarriage
July 4, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley for the audiobook ARC. Unfortunately, this was a painfully bloated follow-up to the first book, which I loved for its world-building, and brilliant use of the Ahalya archetype. However, the non-stop action, disorienting twists of barely explained magic system, and the endless politicking got exhausting. That said, the narrators did a brilliant job of making everything about this world very vivid and engaging. However, some accent choices for some characters were the stereotypical "Indian accent" which I found jarring, immediately losing the thread of whatever plot explanations those characters were imparting. This installment doesn't rely much on the Hindu mythology as much or beyond what was already set up in the first book, so at this point, this narrative is very much its own thing. And I'm sad to report, it's kind of a dense slog. Probably won't be picking up the unnecessarily stretched out need for a sequel.
July 5, 2024
[This review can also be found on my BLOG]
**I was provided with a copy of the book by Titan Books in exchange for an honest review**
CW: blood, injury, body horror, murder, death, grief, pregnancy, miscarriage classism
--
The Unrelenting Earth brilliantly builds on everything introduced in The Surviving Sky and spins the series in a direction that sets it up for a riveting conclusion.
Resuming a few months after the story left off Ahilya, now a council member and the only civilian holding such a position finds herself on a whole new battlefield when all the sister ashrams and their obstinate Architects come together for a Conclave. Iravan, despite being the embodiment of a stable Ecstatic is still facing challenges with his powers including not having full control of his yaksha which could prove to be fatal with Nakshar’s architecture falling apart and the Architects looking for somewhere to pin the blame. Though their personal relationship has become less of a tempest Ahilya and Iravan’s discoveries about the Earthrages has only just started to shake their world and everything they have ever known.
I didn’t get around to doing a reread of book 1 before jumping into this one so it took me a few chapters to recollect all the terminology with regards to the magic system and world but rest assured the finished copy has a handy glossary at the back and a quick flip to it is super helpful in reminding you what everything is.
That aside Rao’s storytelling immediately immerses you back into Ahilya and Iravan’s lives as well as the lush and immersive setting of Nakshar. What I loved the most about this sequel was how it expanded on the worldbuilding. With a Conclave taking place we are introduced to the various sister ashrams and their individual communities and though we only briefly visit them we get a broader understanding of the power structure behind living in the skies. Seeing the inner workings of the Conclave through Ahilya’s eyes and further exploring the politics/system that she has more fixedly become a part of was so interesting.
Iravan’s exploration of the limits of his powers and connection to the falcon yaksha was just as fascinating. Though I’ve got to admit at times when the whole magic system was being expanded on things did get a little confusing. You truly have to slow down and take in all the details properly to fully catch on to all the intricacies but for the most part it isn’t difficult to understand the main gist of what is going on.
Similar to the first book the narrative was quite exposition heavy so you’ll find yourself wading through chunks of story where the characters are going through their thoughts and trying to further understand the power and history behind what they're going through. I was fascinated by all the hidden knowledge that Iravan and Ahilya were discovering and how Rao expanded on the themes of Hindu philosophy but this did mean that the pacing was often on the slow side while the timeline of the book was very short.
There were still some great moments of action and tension throughout though and with how impassioned and fiery our two protagonists are, their journeys and relationship continued to be packed with so much emotion. The pivot the story takes towards the end to set up the final part of the series had me floored and now I’m eagerly awaiting book 3!
Final Rating – 4/5 Stars
**I was provided with a copy of the book by Titan Books in exchange for an honest review**
CW: blood, injury, body horror, murder, death, grief, pregnancy, miscarriage classism
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The Unrelenting Earth brilliantly builds on everything introduced in The Surviving Sky and spins the series in a direction that sets it up for a riveting conclusion.
Resuming a few months after the story left off Ahilya, now a council member and the only civilian holding such a position finds herself on a whole new battlefield when all the sister ashrams and their obstinate Architects come together for a Conclave. Iravan, despite being the embodiment of a stable Ecstatic is still facing challenges with his powers including not having full control of his yaksha which could prove to be fatal with Nakshar’s architecture falling apart and the Architects looking for somewhere to pin the blame. Though their personal relationship has become less of a tempest Ahilya and Iravan’s discoveries about the Earthrages has only just started to shake their world and everything they have ever known.
I didn’t get around to doing a reread of book 1 before jumping into this one so it took me a few chapters to recollect all the terminology with regards to the magic system and world but rest assured the finished copy has a handy glossary at the back and a quick flip to it is super helpful in reminding you what everything is.
That aside Rao’s storytelling immediately immerses you back into Ahilya and Iravan’s lives as well as the lush and immersive setting of Nakshar. What I loved the most about this sequel was how it expanded on the worldbuilding. With a Conclave taking place we are introduced to the various sister ashrams and their individual communities and though we only briefly visit them we get a broader understanding of the power structure behind living in the skies. Seeing the inner workings of the Conclave through Ahilya’s eyes and further exploring the politics/system that she has more fixedly become a part of was so interesting.
Iravan’s exploration of the limits of his powers and connection to the falcon yaksha was just as fascinating. Though I’ve got to admit at times when the whole magic system was being expanded on things did get a little confusing. You truly have to slow down and take in all the details properly to fully catch on to all the intricacies but for the most part it isn’t difficult to understand the main gist of what is going on.
Similar to the first book the narrative was quite exposition heavy so you’ll find yourself wading through chunks of story where the characters are going through their thoughts and trying to further understand the power and history behind what they're going through. I was fascinated by all the hidden knowledge that Iravan and Ahilya were discovering and how Rao expanded on the themes of Hindu philosophy but this did mean that the pacing was often on the slow side while the timeline of the book was very short.
There were still some great moments of action and tension throughout though and with how impassioned and fiery our two protagonists are, their journeys and relationship continued to be packed with so much emotion. The pivot the story takes towards the end to set up the final part of the series had me floored and now I’m eagerly awaiting book 3!
Final Rating – 4/5 Stars
July 9, 2024
CW: pregnancy, miscarriage
I’m hedging between a 4 and 4.5 for now.
After really having a great time with The Surviving Sky last year, I was very much looking forward to this sequel and I’m so glad to report that this is a great sophomore book from the author.
Kritika does a wonderful job expanding on the already very interesting world and magic system that she created in the first book - taking us through the highs and lows and all the possibilities of ecstatic trajection through Iravan’s pov; the history of the various ashrams, their relationships and interdependencies with each other, the power structures and hierarchy within the conclave and how non architects lives get out on the line again and again, all of it through Ahilya’s pov. I like the idea of us readers learning more through the eyes of our characters, though it meant that this book can feel both thrilling and slow paced alternately.
Both our main characters felt much more fleshed out this time, with each focusing on their duties and trying to protect those they care for. While their own relationship takes a backseat and Ahilya is struggling with her pregnancy, they both try their best to change the course of their world, but their lofty and idealistic ambitions get waylaid both by politics and cosmic creatures hellbent on destruction. It felt like an interesting change of pace in their interactions, because they were bickering less than book 1, but their individual purposes which don’t always align are also taking a toll on their relationship, which was all fascinating to read about.
However, it’s the final few chapters that have me completely shocked. While now it seems quite plausible, I didn’t see the ending coming and I feel like the finale will be more explosive - not due to the earthrages and cosmic creatures, but due to Iravan and Ahilya. I can’t wait…!!!
I did want to mention that I listened to the audiobook again and while I still felt the narrators did a wonderful job, there were many instances where the dialogues of the supporting characters were almost like whispers, making it very difficult to hear and understand. No issues when narrating the dialogues of the main characters.
I’m hedging between a 4 and 4.5 for now.
After really having a great time with The Surviving Sky last year, I was very much looking forward to this sequel and I’m so glad to report that this is a great sophomore book from the author.
Kritika does a wonderful job expanding on the already very interesting world and magic system that she created in the first book - taking us through the highs and lows and all the possibilities of ecstatic trajection through Iravan’s pov; the history of the various ashrams, their relationships and interdependencies with each other, the power structures and hierarchy within the conclave and how non architects lives get out on the line again and again, all of it through Ahilya’s pov. I like the idea of us readers learning more through the eyes of our characters, though it meant that this book can feel both thrilling and slow paced alternately.
Both our main characters felt much more fleshed out this time, with each focusing on their duties and trying to protect those they care for. While their own relationship takes a backseat and Ahilya is struggling with her pregnancy, they both try their best to change the course of their world, but their lofty and idealistic ambitions get waylaid both by politics and cosmic creatures hellbent on destruction. It felt like an interesting change of pace in their interactions, because they were bickering less than book 1, but their individual purposes which don’t always align are also taking a toll on their relationship, which was all fascinating to read about.
However, it’s the final few chapters that have me completely shocked. While now it seems quite plausible, I didn’t see the ending coming and I feel like the finale will be more explosive - not due to the earthrages and cosmic creatures, but due to Iravan and Ahilya. I can’t wait…!!!
I did want to mention that I listened to the audiobook again and while I still felt the narrators did a wonderful job, there were many instances where the dialogues of the supporting characters were almost like whispers, making it very difficult to hear and understand. No issues when narrating the dialogues of the main characters.
June 5, 2024
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC. I really enjoyed reading The Unrelenting Earth. Surprisingly, for a second book, I like it even better than the first. The magic system is definitely a bit complicated; I don't completely understand it, and honestly I was using my own understanding of hindu philosophy to follow along. I feel like in this book, it was even more obvious than the first what the philosophical inspiration was, so even though I did not fully get the magic system, I still really liked it. The beginning was a bit slow, but once the story started picking up around the 20% mark, it became really fast paced, and the stakes were so high, I was frantically turning the pages to find out what happened next. My favorite part of the book is Ahilya and Iravan's relationship; I liked it even more compared to the first. There was still loads of tension, but also some cute moments, and so many emotional moments. Definitely check out the content warnings before reading this. I can't wait for the next book!
August 22, 2024
The Unrelenting Earth picks up right where its predecessor left off (you definitely need to read this series in order!) and has many features I appreciated in the first book: the alternating POVs of Ahilya and Iravan, compelling world-building, meaningful diversity that in no way feels tokenizing, an interesting magical / technological component (though I definitely do not fully understand the vocabulary used to describe it), and a lot of entirely believable political manoeuvring between different ashrams and the classes and interests therein. This book moves faster than the first in terms of pacing, and toward the end I couldn’t put it down. Rao has written a second book that sets up the third very well but that doesn’t suffer from ‘second book’ issues of feeling like filler or like its only purpose is setup: meaningful action and change for the characters happens and significant details of the societies’ histories and the surrounding world are revealed. I’m really enjoying this series, and look forward to the final installment.
Thank you Titan Books & NetGalley for providing an ARC.
Content warnings: violence, death, grief, blood, pregnancy loss
Thank you Titan Books & NetGalley for providing an ARC.
Content warnings: violence, death, grief, blood, pregnancy loss
June 10, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Titan Books for the chance to read this before its publication.
The Surviving Sky was one of, if not my first ARC that I was approved for and read through when I found NetGalley.
One year later and I was able to continue the experience with the second book of the Rages series!
I’m still intrigued and invested in the magic system—even when I may not entirely understand it—and overall world building with its mystic and expansive lore. And even though a year has passed since I read book one, I did feel like I was just picking up exactly where I left off and the story just continued quite fluidly for me.
I am still left with so many questions and I’m sure if they get answered I’ll end up having more, which may not necessarily be a bad thing as I’ve grown to learn you’ll always be left wanting more from books you enjoy!
The Surviving Sky was one of, if not my first ARC that I was approved for and read through when I found NetGalley.
One year later and I was able to continue the experience with the second book of the Rages series!
I’m still intrigued and invested in the magic system—even when I may not entirely understand it—and overall world building with its mystic and expansive lore. And even though a year has passed since I read book one, I did feel like I was just picking up exactly where I left off and the story just continued quite fluidly for me.
I am still left with so many questions and I’m sure if they get answered I’ll end up having more, which may not necessarily be a bad thing as I’ve grown to learn you’ll always be left wanting more from books you enjoy!
June 28, 2024
The stunning sequel to an epic an unique story!!
Plot: 4/5
The pacing and structure of tis plot was really well crafted, the way the story progressed made a lot of sense. However I felt that there were multiple instances of just fixing mistakes for things they didn't understand. Which obviously would happen, but it felt a little repetitive at moments.
Characters: 4/5
I adore Ahilya so much and I loved seeing her in moral conflicts and how she worked within her personal code of ethics. She is such a strong character and goes through so much in this book, I am in awe of her. Iravan makes me so mad because his character flaws are so persistent but I know that's intentional but I cannot stand that man.
I would have loved to see more from the side characters, especially Druv and Nayla because they've both such incredible characters with interesting morals and goals.
Writing: 5/5
Rao has such an enjoyable and emotional writing style. She draws out the tense moments to make the reader feel the same tension as the characters. She balances the two very complex POVs really well. I am incredibly excited for more books from her!
Other: 4/5
The magic and science that Rao created in this book is beyond genius... which means its a bit beyond my understanding lol... in the latter half of this book I started feeling really lost about what was happening with trajection and everything. Even the final battle, I was like.. what just happened?
Tropes to note: queer normative society, bisexual mcm, married protagonists
TW for miscarriages
Total: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
The pacing and structure of tis plot was really well crafted, the way the story progressed made a lot of sense. However I felt that there were multiple instances of just fixing mistakes for things they didn't understand. Which obviously would happen, but it felt a little repetitive at moments.
Characters: 4/5
I adore Ahilya so much and I loved seeing her in moral conflicts and how she worked within her personal code of ethics. She is such a strong character and goes through so much in this book, I am in awe of her. Iravan makes me so mad because his character flaws are so persistent but I know that's intentional but I cannot stand that man.
I would have loved to see more from the side characters, especially Druv and Nayla because they've both such incredible characters with interesting morals and goals.
Writing: 5/5
Rao has such an enjoyable and emotional writing style. She draws out the tense moments to make the reader feel the same tension as the characters. She balances the two very complex POVs really well. I am incredibly excited for more books from her!
Other: 4/5
The magic and science that Rao created in this book is beyond genius... which means its a bit beyond my understanding lol... in the latter half of this book I started feeling really lost about what was happening with trajection and everything. Even the final battle, I was like.. what just happened?
Tropes to note: queer normative society, bisexual mcm, married protagonists
TW for miscarriages
Total: 4/5
April 30, 2024
The riveting second book in the Rages trilogy picks up a couple months after the events of the first book. Ahilya and Iravan have reconciled, but their ill-fated relationship hangs on by a fragile thread. They are still reeling from the truth behind the earthrages, truths that threaten to uproot the tenets and deep-seated conditioning of their culture. Ahilya contends with the conflicting factions within the ashram, and Iravan struggles to unify with his falcon-yaksha and free the other Ecstatics. They both have a monumental task before them—to change the trajectory of civilization itself.
Like the first book, this is an instantly immersive epic that expands the boundaries of what fantasy can be. Hindu philosophy is integrated into a lush jungle world with complicated cosmic magic and intricate architectural design. Amidst a desperate fight for survival, much of the family drama continues, driven by Ahilya’s willfulness and Iravan’s regret. They are a believably flawed middle-aged couple who add tension and a sense of reckless rage to the tone of the story. This is great for fans of Martha Wells, or those who enjoy inventive sci-fi fantasy with emotional stakes.
(This review was originally written for Library Journal magazine.)
Like the first book, this is an instantly immersive epic that expands the boundaries of what fantasy can be. Hindu philosophy is integrated into a lush jungle world with complicated cosmic magic and intricate architectural design. Amidst a desperate fight for survival, much of the family drama continues, driven by Ahilya’s willfulness and Iravan’s regret. They are a believably flawed middle-aged couple who add tension and a sense of reckless rage to the tone of the story. This is great for fans of Martha Wells, or those who enjoy inventive sci-fi fantasy with emotional stakes.
(This review was originally written for Library Journal magazine.)
June 27, 2024
I was excited for this sequel, if only because the last book was so unique in its setting and how it chose to focus on the relationship of the main characters in the context of the caste-esque dystopia. The sequel leans heavy into navigating the politics of the ashrams, how what might've worked in the past may in fact be detrimental to the future, and at building a new understanding of the world. The end is aching in the best kind of way, and is a good place to leave it here for now.
July 4, 2024
I really enjoyed this one, but did find it hard to get back into as it had been some time since I read the first book.
June 30, 2025
Phenomenal piece of work with unbridled imagination and creativity. I was at the edge of my seat every time I picked up this book to continue the story. The evolution of Ahilya and Iravan’s character arcs is both devastating and captivating and I cannot wait to see the culmination of their growth and their relationship in the last book.
God how does someone come up with this level of world-building???? Absolutely spectacular.
God how does someone come up with this level of world-building???? Absolutely spectacular.
June 18, 2024
This will not be a book for everyone. They will hear “floating jungle cities” And think oh yeah that’s cool. But this is so much more, such a complex mind bending speculative fiction- that yes had floating jungle cities, but also takes place in various mindscapes that may throw casual readers for a loop. I repeat, this is not a beach read.
I absolutely love this world and the mixture of science fiction, environmentalism, and even faith (which I’m not religious, but I appreciate it here). Iravan and Ahilya are the messiest and realist characters and I love (and sometimes hate) them so much. The political maneuvering that occurs between the Council and the Conclave is just delightful and infuriating.
If you love a complex SFF, messy characters I will continue to tell you to read this series.
I absolutely love this world and the mixture of science fiction, environmentalism, and even faith (which I’m not religious, but I appreciate it here). Iravan and Ahilya are the messiest and realist characters and I love (and sometimes hate) them so much. The political maneuvering that occurs between the Council and the Conclave is just delightful and infuriating.
If you love a complex SFF, messy characters I will continue to tell you to read this series.
June 1, 2025
Great read!
Very excited to read the last one when it's released! Captivating and full of action! A great 2nd part to The Surviving Sky!!
Very excited to read the last one when it's released! Captivating and full of action! A great 2nd part to The Surviving Sky!!
August 7, 2024
I’d really like to be able to give this book 4 stars, just like the first, but I spent too much time being confused to justify it. I could grasp the magic system in the first book, but everything got dialed up to 11 here and I got lost. The conflict with the cosmic creatures was also difficult to wrap my head around—overall, the first book felt far more grounded than this. The worldbuilding is still super cool and I still liked the characters, but it did kinda suck to see the miscommunication be dragged out for another book. The characters’ choices make sense within the context of the story, but after a while, I get frustrated and just want them to sit down and have an adult conversation.
I’m curious to see how this series wraps up, still, though I do hope to enjoy the finale as much as I did book 1.
I’m curious to see how this series wraps up, still, though I do hope to enjoy the finale as much as I did book 1.
dnf
October 9, 2025My thanks to RB Media for a free ALC of "The Unrelenting Earth" by Kritika H Rao, narrated by Sharmila Devar and Pranshu Mishra.
First, the audio narrators were excellent as in "The Surviving Sky", the first volume in the "Rages" trilogy.
Unfortunately this sequel lost me. I love this world and I needed more.
The character motivations and actions were not properly conveyed. After the resolution between Aliyah and Iravan from the first volume I expected each to have more clarity.
Unfortunately I won't be continuing with this trilogy, but I want to try more works from this author in the future.
First, the audio narrators were excellent as in "The Surviving Sky", the first volume in the "Rages" trilogy.
Unfortunately this sequel lost me. I love this world and I needed more.
The character motivations and actions were not properly conveyed. After the resolution between Aliyah and Iravan from the first volume I expected each to have more clarity.
Unfortunately I won't be continuing with this trilogy, but I want to try more works from this author in the future.
June 17, 2024
In the two months following Ahilya and Iravan's discovery about the earthrages, cosmic creatures struggle to break through the world. Architecture is disintegrating, so a Conclave is formed to discuss the future of the floating cities. Ahilya is now a councillor and wants to share information to liberate ordinary citizens. This desire is creating dangerous enemies, and Iravan must convince the Conclave that the truth about Ecstatic trajection is not unstable. He has difficulty with his own abilities, just as the barrier containing the cosmic beings is thinning. A storm is coming, and the couple are running out of time to save humanity.
The cosmic beings in this world once came and explored, and used their higher consciousness to traject into humans, the way humans currently traject into plants. They grew separate, with their disconnected humans retaining that ability to become architects. Those who didn't break up their soul connections were "ordinary" people in the world. They fear dissolving into nothing, losing consciousness, and completing the reincarnation cycles that humans are capable of. This puts them at odds with architects and sungineers alike, and the politicking continues as all the floating sister cities converge and try to determine what to do next. Ahilya wants to try saving everyone, regardless of trajection ability, and hopes to eventually have the cities land on the jungle floor and return to the world their ancestors left behind. Iravan faces battles of his own: architects of the conservative cities want his ability excised, the falcon he bonded to now wants control, and there are unbound cosmic entities that want to break through the barriers to destroy what they cannot understand.
This trilogy deals with the weighty topics of consciousness, individualism vs community and the needs of a couple to work together. Iravan and Ahilya often work at crossroads, just as they did before they discovered the existence of the cosmic entities. Their city, for all its adherence to tradition, is actually the most forward-thinking one of them all. Other cities want to cling to tradition, as there are now skyrages threatening the stability of the floating cities as well as earthrages rocking the planet's surface. As much as Iravan and Ahilya had theorized that trajection created these rages, other architects are unwilling to give up the power they have or consider alternate points of view. These abilities are dangerous, untested, and spreading like wildfire throughout the other cities. Councilors are willing to sacrifice individuals for the sake of entire cities, and it's hardly an easy task.
The conclusion of this volume is not what the characters or the reader would have thought it would be. It sets up the third book in the trilogy and furthers the conflicts between the couple, those in charge of the cities, and the cosmic beings. It remains a question of whose desire will win out in the end, and if the peace that comes from annihilation will be worth the price.
The cosmic beings in this world once came and explored, and used their higher consciousness to traject into humans, the way humans currently traject into plants. They grew separate, with their disconnected humans retaining that ability to become architects. Those who didn't break up their soul connections were "ordinary" people in the world. They fear dissolving into nothing, losing consciousness, and completing the reincarnation cycles that humans are capable of. This puts them at odds with architects and sungineers alike, and the politicking continues as all the floating sister cities converge and try to determine what to do next. Ahilya wants to try saving everyone, regardless of trajection ability, and hopes to eventually have the cities land on the jungle floor and return to the world their ancestors left behind. Iravan faces battles of his own: architects of the conservative cities want his ability excised, the falcon he bonded to now wants control, and there are unbound cosmic entities that want to break through the barriers to destroy what they cannot understand.
This trilogy deals with the weighty topics of consciousness, individualism vs community and the needs of a couple to work together. Iravan and Ahilya often work at crossroads, just as they did before they discovered the existence of the cosmic entities. Their city, for all its adherence to tradition, is actually the most forward-thinking one of them all. Other cities want to cling to tradition, as there are now skyrages threatening the stability of the floating cities as well as earthrages rocking the planet's surface. As much as Iravan and Ahilya had theorized that trajection created these rages, other architects are unwilling to give up the power they have or consider alternate points of view. These abilities are dangerous, untested, and spreading like wildfire throughout the other cities. Councilors are willing to sacrifice individuals for the sake of entire cities, and it's hardly an easy task.
The conclusion of this volume is not what the characters or the reader would have thought it would be. It sets up the third book in the trilogy and furthers the conflicts between the couple, those in charge of the cities, and the cosmic beings. It remains a question of whose desire will win out in the end, and if the peace that comes from annihilation will be worth the price.
September 20, 2024
This book is the sequel to The Surviving Sky that I previously read. I found it right next to it in the library however, the cover is less appealing and title had me even less excited. Nevertheless, I wanted to see how the story ends.
The book picks up right where the other one left off. Ahilya and Iravan go their separate ways, leaving each other for there own purposes. There are a lot of unresolved issues and feelings left unsaid about the future of their relationship but the needs of the present are too important to ignore. Ahilya goes back home with the plan to share what she had learned about humanities past and to try and help them rebuild. She is elected to the council, however there is a lot of turmoil caused by her revelations that do not coincide with their culture and previously known history. Ahilya finds herself in a position she has sought after for years but the circumstances around it are much different than she hoped or expected, how can she decide what is the best way for her and her people to proceed. Iravan stays behind in the jungle in the home that they built together. He is trying to learn and understand his new life and abilities since reuniting with his counterpart, the falcon. The falcon is unpredictable and full of rage and fury and Iravan must find a way to control him before he can reunite with his people and free other estactics. Iravan finally decides to go home with a plan to move forward and help more people like him however, things do not go as planned as more people are brought into our world and with it more chaos as the world seems to be falling apart all around them. Will Iravan help his people or destroy them and the world?
Once again the author does a great job building on the world they already built adding new cities and characters that are unique and complex. We witness the inner struggle of both the main characters, struggles that are easy to relate to even though the world they live in is vastly different from our own. Once again there is a lot going on in this book, the level of detail of the world is almost overwhelming. I will definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed the first. My biggest issue with the second book is there are too many moments that after the character learns new information they have some huge realization that changes everything for themselves and have a plan to save everyone. In each moment the characters are so convinced that they finally figured everything out and you as a reader feel a part of that experience only to find out they were wrong. It was not having this in the plot that bothered me but instead only that it happened more than once. Overall if you read the first you have to finish the story the author does not disappoint.
For more reviews check out my blog
reviewreelpages.blogspot.com
The book picks up right where the other one left off. Ahilya and Iravan go their separate ways, leaving each other for there own purposes. There are a lot of unresolved issues and feelings left unsaid about the future of their relationship but the needs of the present are too important to ignore. Ahilya goes back home with the plan to share what she had learned about humanities past and to try and help them rebuild. She is elected to the council, however there is a lot of turmoil caused by her revelations that do not coincide with their culture and previously known history. Ahilya finds herself in a position she has sought after for years but the circumstances around it are much different than she hoped or expected, how can she decide what is the best way for her and her people to proceed. Iravan stays behind in the jungle in the home that they built together. He is trying to learn and understand his new life and abilities since reuniting with his counterpart, the falcon. The falcon is unpredictable and full of rage and fury and Iravan must find a way to control him before he can reunite with his people and free other estactics. Iravan finally decides to go home with a plan to move forward and help more people like him however, things do not go as planned as more people are brought into our world and with it more chaos as the world seems to be falling apart all around them. Will Iravan help his people or destroy them and the world?
Once again the author does a great job building on the world they already built adding new cities and characters that are unique and complex. We witness the inner struggle of both the main characters, struggles that are easy to relate to even though the world they live in is vastly different from our own. Once again there is a lot going on in this book, the level of detail of the world is almost overwhelming. I will definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed the first. My biggest issue with the second book is there are too many moments that after the character learns new information they have some huge realization that changes everything for themselves and have a plan to save everyone. In each moment the characters are so convinced that they finally figured everything out and you as a reader feel a part of that experience only to find out they were wrong. It was not having this in the plot that bothered me but instead only that it happened more than once. Overall if you read the first you have to finish the story the author does not disappoint.
For more reviews check out my blog
reviewreelpages.blogspot.com
July 13, 2024
In this second instalment of The Rages trilogy, Ahilya and Iravan are separated once again, each on their own life threatening pursuit of truth that may change everything they and their people believe about their existence. As the Earth rages intensify and trajection becomes less and less reliable, can they, their cities, and their marriage survive what is coming for them?
This series continues to blow me away with it’s massive scope and scale. The world Rao creates here is beautifully complex in its history, social structure, science and lore. The one drawback of this is, I probably could have benefited from a re-read of the first book before launching into this one, as there were definitely moments where I was hazy on the details and timeline from the first book, exacerbated slightly by the time jump, so I was left questioning were certain events being referenced ones I’d forgotten or ones that had taken place in the interim.
This book further builds on the blend of science fiction and fantasy introduced in the first, as we learn more about the history of trajection and architects, as well as the yakshas and earth rages. The introduction of the Conclave and thus, the sister ashrams expands this world even more, as we now see the many ways in which Ahilya and Iravan’s home differs from the other ashrams, and more of the inner politics and motivations of the council and its members come to light.
I was hoping to see more of Ahilya and Iravan actually interacting in this book as I find there relationship dynamic so fascinating, sadly that wasn’t to be. It was necessary for the narrative but I would have just liked to see their relationship explored through actual interactions rather than their individual thought processes. But it did make their few on-page interactions all the more heightened, ultimately working in the story’s favour.
The pacing overall was just slightly off, getting a handle on the timeline and passage of time was a struggle at times. Skipping two months between books to then have the events seemingly happen at breakneck speed over the course of three or four days, followed by a brief overview of the weeks in the aftermath, had the whole thing feeling just slightly off-kilter.
As this world increases in size and complexity, I’m really excited to see where the final instalment takes it and its characters as thy seem to have been forced into increasingly impossible situations.
Thank you Titan Books for my advanced review copy of this title, received in exchange for an honest review.
This series continues to blow me away with it’s massive scope and scale. The world Rao creates here is beautifully complex in its history, social structure, science and lore. The one drawback of this is, I probably could have benefited from a re-read of the first book before launching into this one, as there were definitely moments where I was hazy on the details and timeline from the first book, exacerbated slightly by the time jump, so I was left questioning were certain events being referenced ones I’d forgotten or ones that had taken place in the interim.
This book further builds on the blend of science fiction and fantasy introduced in the first, as we learn more about the history of trajection and architects, as well as the yakshas and earth rages. The introduction of the Conclave and thus, the sister ashrams expands this world even more, as we now see the many ways in which Ahilya and Iravan’s home differs from the other ashrams, and more of the inner politics and motivations of the council and its members come to light.
I was hoping to see more of Ahilya and Iravan actually interacting in this book as I find there relationship dynamic so fascinating, sadly that wasn’t to be. It was necessary for the narrative but I would have just liked to see their relationship explored through actual interactions rather than their individual thought processes. But it did make their few on-page interactions all the more heightened, ultimately working in the story’s favour.
The pacing overall was just slightly off, getting a handle on the timeline and passage of time was a struggle at times. Skipping two months between books to then have the events seemingly happen at breakneck speed over the course of three or four days, followed by a brief overview of the weeks in the aftermath, had the whole thing feeling just slightly off-kilter.
As this world increases in size and complexity, I’m really excited to see where the final instalment takes it and its characters as thy seem to have been forced into increasingly impossible situations.
Thank you Titan Books for my advanced review copy of this title, received in exchange for an honest review.
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June 1, 2024It's been almost a year since I read The Surviving Sky, so it took me a few chapters to settle back into the world and the magic system since it really is complex. I discovered afterwards that there's a glossary at the back! So take note if you're struggling to keep track of the magic. Once I had found my feet again though, I flew through the pages. Unrelenting a good title - it was almost nonstop action from start to finish!
As with book 1, the worldbuilding was incredible. Every little thing is connected to something else. The characters, the planet, the culture, the ashtas... they all link together in a multitude of ways and are constantly changing each other. I really enjoyed going deeper into how the ashrams are built and maintained in this instalment, and I also liked seeing characters from other ashrams come into play.
We also went a lot deeper into the magic system in this book. I admit I did struggle a bit here, as it was a lot to understand. However, we are learning things alongside Iravan, so I don't think everything is supposed to be crystal clear right away. Eventually it all made sense, and ultimately this fact didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story.
The plot really ramps up from the end of book 1, with Ahilya and Iravan's relationship again at the core of the story, both of them struggling with the relationship itself and the monumental tasks they are faced with. Rao writes her characters so wonderfully, their emotions are palpable and you can really feel their desires and pain through the pages.
Hindu philosophy is core again here, rebirth and one's duty playing huge roles, with Ahilya and Iravan pulling in different directions so that it makes it hard to know sometimes who you want to support! As I said at the start, it's action packed and the ending! No spoilers here but goodness me, I think book 3 is going to be epic.
Thank you so, so much to Titan Books for sending over a copy for me to read and review!
As with book 1, the worldbuilding was incredible. Every little thing is connected to something else. The characters, the planet, the culture, the ashtas... they all link together in a multitude of ways and are constantly changing each other. I really enjoyed going deeper into how the ashrams are built and maintained in this instalment, and I also liked seeing characters from other ashrams come into play.
We also went a lot deeper into the magic system in this book. I admit I did struggle a bit here, as it was a lot to understand. However, we are learning things alongside Iravan, so I don't think everything is supposed to be crystal clear right away. Eventually it all made sense, and ultimately this fact didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story.
The plot really ramps up from the end of book 1, with Ahilya and Iravan's relationship again at the core of the story, both of them struggling with the relationship itself and the monumental tasks they are faced with. Rao writes her characters so wonderfully, their emotions are palpable and you can really feel their desires and pain through the pages.
Hindu philosophy is core again here, rebirth and one's duty playing huge roles, with Ahilya and Iravan pulling in different directions so that it makes it hard to know sometimes who you want to support! As I said at the start, it's action packed and the ending! No spoilers here but goodness me, I think book 3 is going to be epic.
Thank you so, so much to Titan Books for sending over a copy for me to read and review!
September 29, 2024
The Unrelenting Earth took the themes of the first book and dialed them up to the extreme. Nature’s involvement, relationship struggles, conflicting feelings and goals, mystery, religion, science, and everything else were pushed to their limits in this much anticipated sequel. And while I enjoyed some of that, I also sometimes really struggled with staying engaged.
The politics and nature’s role in the story got both more interesting as well as convoluted. While I like the intersection between magic and science in this series, I’ve also never had a very good grasp on how it works. That didn’t really bother me in the first book but since it played a much more important role in this one, it was harder to follow along with the details. The politics also got much more intricate and while I like listening to audiobooks, that was maybe not the best decision for me for this specific book. I listen while I clean or drive and sometimes I miss details with that, which hurt my understanding of this book quite a bit.
The relationship between the MCs was one of my favorite parts of the first book and I enjoyed how that continued in this one. Their goals and methods differed but they also learned about each other’s struggles while finding their new places within and without society. While I couldn’t always follow Iravan’s magical adventures, I did like seeing Ahilya’s planning and scheming and all the political ups and downs that come with that.
The way the plot was playing out, the author could’ve easily made this a duology with a happy ending but I liked the conflict that ensued towards the end that set up the third book. I’m really intrigued by the possibilities. Things are more complicated than anticipated and I’m eager to see how it all ends. I do think that, just like with the first book, it’s upon rereading that I will really be able to appreciate the nuances of this book and I fully intend on doing that.
The politics and nature’s role in the story got both more interesting as well as convoluted. While I like the intersection between magic and science in this series, I’ve also never had a very good grasp on how it works. That didn’t really bother me in the first book but since it played a much more important role in this one, it was harder to follow along with the details. The politics also got much more intricate and while I like listening to audiobooks, that was maybe not the best decision for me for this specific book. I listen while I clean or drive and sometimes I miss details with that, which hurt my understanding of this book quite a bit.
The relationship between the MCs was one of my favorite parts of the first book and I enjoyed how that continued in this one. Their goals and methods differed but they also learned about each other’s struggles while finding their new places within and without society. While I couldn’t always follow Iravan’s magical adventures, I did like seeing Ahilya’s planning and scheming and all the political ups and downs that come with that.
The way the plot was playing out, the author could’ve easily made this a duology with a happy ending but I liked the conflict that ensued towards the end that set up the third book. I’m really intrigued by the possibilities. Things are more complicated than anticipated and I’m eager to see how it all ends. I do think that, just like with the first book, it’s upon rereading that I will really be able to appreciate the nuances of this book and I fully intend on doing that.
January 1, 2025
A fantastic second addition to the Rages series, I got this book as soon as it had come out, i had read book one, The Surviving Sky, not very long before and had fallen in love with the unique take on a postapocalyptic, politically charged landscape, one might even say magical/solar punk story - now that might sound like a lot of descriptive traits for a book and you might think how could this all come together but until you read you will have to trust me because they do!
The second book picks up 2 months after we leave the characters and immediately struggles with pacing a little, the timeline of the 1st book is over a series of weeks if not longer, in book 2, we are thrown into chaos at almost every turn, leaving you a little short of breath and needing to de-tense your shoulders. Having all the story happen in what seemingly is a few days was a lot to take in.
As I said I absolutely love the take this book has on the world and the way in which it traverses being human, loving, hating, and being bigger than oneself or perhaps discovering that you are bigger than 1st thought. However, the only major thing, as with the 1st book, is that I think the author loses herself in the understanding. She clearly knows what she is saying and what it means in relation to everything else, however, I do not always think it was clear what it was trying to portray or achieve from a storytelling standpoint. Big reveals may be made and it is somewhat lost in the cacophony of other grand moments in relation to the characters.
It may be a small thing for you but unless you are really on the ball i think that somepoeple may struggle to keep tabs on what everything occurring actually means for our characters and the world they live in.
The second book picks up 2 months after we leave the characters and immediately struggles with pacing a little, the timeline of the 1st book is over a series of weeks if not longer, in book 2, we are thrown into chaos at almost every turn, leaving you a little short of breath and needing to de-tense your shoulders. Having all the story happen in what seemingly is a few days was a lot to take in.
As I said I absolutely love the take this book has on the world and the way in which it traverses being human, loving, hating, and being bigger than oneself or perhaps discovering that you are bigger than 1st thought. However, the only major thing, as with the 1st book, is that I think the author loses herself in the understanding. She clearly knows what she is saying and what it means in relation to everything else, however, I do not always think it was clear what it was trying to portray or achieve from a storytelling standpoint. Big reveals may be made and it is somewhat lost in the cacophony of other grand moments in relation to the characters.
It may be a small thing for you but unless you are really on the ball i think that somepoeple may struggle to keep tabs on what everything occurring actually means for our characters and the world they live in.
June 12, 2024
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
THE UNRELENTING EARTH takes the world-turning ideas of THE SURVIVING SKY and uses them to send the sky-cities plummeting towards disaster.
Not only does their home need to adapt to ecstatics, but the other cities. I really liked getting to see people from other cities, which are like nation states with their own rules and cultures. They come together in a UN like setting, and argue over the future. Are ecstatics to be trusted? Is Nakshar too "corrupted" in its traditions to be allowed to continue?
It was interesting to see these ideas explored from a range of perspectives. The dangers are understandable - Iravan isn't exactly helping matters at times - but the heavy handed approach from some is very hypocritical and overall shows a callous regard for life. Ahilya's fight to have non-architects seen as just as valuable comes to a head and I cheered on her actions when she deliberately undermined the architects.
The book is full of action and danger with the sky-cities under attack from the cosmic beings despite being supposedly safe in the air. The rate of action (and "uh-oh they're going to die" moments) increases exponentially as the book goes on, leading to an action packed finale.
The ending sets up the potential central conflict of the final book of the trilogy, a battle of ideologies that will see likely Ahilya and Iravan decide between their beliefs and each other.
THE UNRELENTING EARTH takes the world-turning ideas of THE SURVIVING SKY and uses them to send the sky-cities plummeting towards disaster.
Not only does their home need to adapt to ecstatics, but the other cities. I really liked getting to see people from other cities, which are like nation states with their own rules and cultures. They come together in a UN like setting, and argue over the future. Are ecstatics to be trusted? Is Nakshar too "corrupted" in its traditions to be allowed to continue?
It was interesting to see these ideas explored from a range of perspectives. The dangers are understandable - Iravan isn't exactly helping matters at times - but the heavy handed approach from some is very hypocritical and overall shows a callous regard for life. Ahilya's fight to have non-architects seen as just as valuable comes to a head and I cheered on her actions when she deliberately undermined the architects.
The book is full of action and danger with the sky-cities under attack from the cosmic beings despite being supposedly safe in the air. The rate of action (and "uh-oh they're going to die" moments) increases exponentially as the book goes on, leading to an action packed finale.
The ending sets up the potential central conflict of the final book of the trilogy, a battle of ideologies that will see likely Ahilya and Iravan decide between their beliefs and each other.
November 8, 2024
The Unrelenting Earth is the much anticipated sequel to Rao's debut novel. While I absolutely loved The Surviving Sky, I was left with mixed feelings after finishing this story. It felt somewhat unevenly paced with the first half feeling especially slow and the last third speeding by quickly. A lot of time is spent with Iravan and the magic system in the first half, which was part of my struggle. I didn't feel the magic system was as well explained as I would have liked in the first book. I expected more would be learned as the trilogy progressed; however, in this story, the magic system is used much more and felt like it played an even more prominent role without much further explanation. This left me wanting to skim those parts of the story, which were numerous, in the first half. Part of what I loved in the first book were all the character relationships and especially the complicated relationship between Iravan and Ahilya. I would describe this second book as being more plot focused. We do still see some of Iran and Ahilya's relationship though it turned in directions I wasn't expecting. I really missed the greater character focus. Ultimately, I will be picking up the sequel as there was enough that I liked, especially with how much I loved about the first book.
I listened to the audiobook and the performances of Sharmila Devar and Pranshu Mishra were excellent, as expected. Their performances deserved 5 stars and really elevated the book even during the parts I was struggling to move forward.
Thank you to Recorded Books and NetGalley for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I listened to the audiobook and the performances of Sharmila Devar and Pranshu Mishra were excellent, as expected. Their performances deserved 5 stars and really elevated the book even during the parts I was struggling to move forward.
Thank you to Recorded Books and NetGalley for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2025
Loved the expansion of the world and about half way through I had to check to make sure this was a trilogy because no way it could have ended at this point. I do love a good corruption arc and what I love about Ahilya and Iravan is that you can see where both sides are coming from (). I am eager to see things progress in the final book especially now . This is actually a banger series, must be the only couple that brought about the collapse of the world as they know simply because they refuse to properly communicate with each other.
May 3, 2025
I was so pleasantly surprised by the Surviving Sky, a sci-fantasy with innovative technology and magic and an interesting problem of survival. I didn’t always understand the mechanics, and it’s been awhile since I read the first book, so I was disappointed not to find a recap in the Unrelenting Earth. Thankfully, the first chapter recalled some of Book 1’s events and there was a glossary in the back. I am still fuzzy on the magic system, but Book 2 really pulled me into the politics. It felt like it moved much faster, all the events taking place over several days, and I’m glad it didn’t suffer from a middle book slump. There was a very interesting struggle between the traditions that have kept society safe until now and the discoveries and [hidden] knowledge that would allow them to move forward and live without the threat of destruction. As a reader, it was easy to discern the ability of power to corrupt, even though almost every character claimed to be acting for the good of all, in a city that’s very much divided. The characters with page-time were often unlikeable, but I rooted for their civilization as a whole. I am curious how they, not to mention the main couple Ahilya and Iravan, will fare in the Enduring Universe, and if they’ll manage to learn more about the nature of their world.
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