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The River's Daughter
The River’s Daughter is a dark romantic fantasy about love, rebellion, and the magic that stirs beneath the surface.
In the town of Jaraan, women are bound by stillness: trained to be silent, obedient, and contained. Nineteen-year-old Sahira Raazaan has always been the perfect Covenant daughter. Silent. Still. Her future arranged, her desires contained. She's betrothed to the town's golden boy, expected to fulfill the life laid out for her.
But when she meets the gaze of a forbidden stranger, a river-marked musician from the Mehr’an people, something ancient stirs. Water moves at her touch. Blue markings bloom beneath her skin. The river begins to speak to her.
Sahira begins to unravel the truth about her mother’s disappearance, and about the long-suppressed power hidden in her own blood.
With her marriage ceremony fast approaching and her family’s honor on the line, Sahira must choose: the life she was raised for, or the truth buried in her blood. The river’s pull, and the stranger’s touch, promise a freedom she never dared imagine.
Some currents cannot be contained forever...
Inspired by South Asian folklore and the legend of Mirza Sahiba, The River’s Daughter is a lush, lyrical tale of forbidden love, feminine rebellion, and river magic... and the courage to reclaim your voice.
In the town of Jaraan, women are bound by stillness: trained to be silent, obedient, and contained. Nineteen-year-old Sahira Raazaan has always been the perfect Covenant daughter. Silent. Still. Her future arranged, her desires contained. She's betrothed to the town's golden boy, expected to fulfill the life laid out for her.
But when she meets the gaze of a forbidden stranger, a river-marked musician from the Mehr’an people, something ancient stirs. Water moves at her touch. Blue markings bloom beneath her skin. The river begins to speak to her.
Sahira begins to unravel the truth about her mother’s disappearance, and about the long-suppressed power hidden in her own blood.
With her marriage ceremony fast approaching and her family’s honor on the line, Sahira must choose: the life she was raised for, or the truth buried in her blood. The river’s pull, and the stranger’s touch, promise a freedom she never dared imagine.
Some currents cannot be contained forever...
Inspired by South Asian folklore and the legend of Mirza Sahiba, The River’s Daughter is a lush, lyrical tale of forbidden love, feminine rebellion, and river magic... and the courage to reclaim your voice.
484 pages, Paperback
Published July 15, 2025
35 people are currently reading
4041 people want to read
About the author
Punita Rice
10 books17 followersPunita Rice is the author of The River's Daughter, a story about forbidden love, feminine rebellion, and river magic, inspired by the legend of Mirza Sahiba. This is her debut novel.
A former teacher and education researcher, she holds a doctorate from Johns Hopkins University and is the author of a nonfiction book on South Asian American students in schools. The River’s Daughter is her debut novel. Her work has appeared in Berkeley Review of Education, Education Week Teacher, Radio New Zealand, The Baltimore Sun, and other publications. She has also written several children’s books for her sons, called The Adventures of Hunny & Sunny. Though she now works outside education, she remains passionate about storytelling, learning, and raising curious, thoughtful kids.
Punita lives in Maryland with her husband, their boys, and their dog, and spends her free time daydreaming about rivers, rebellion, and love stories from the past.
You can get her updates by joining her newsletter, learn more about her work at punitarice.com, or connect with her on Instagram and TikTok @punitarice.
A former teacher and education researcher, she holds a doctorate from Johns Hopkins University and is the author of a nonfiction book on South Asian American students in schools. The River’s Daughter is her debut novel. Her work has appeared in Berkeley Review of Education, Education Week Teacher, Radio New Zealand, The Baltimore Sun, and other publications. She has also written several children’s books for her sons, called The Adventures of Hunny & Sunny. Though she now works outside education, she remains passionate about storytelling, learning, and raising curious, thoughtful kids.
Punita lives in Maryland with her husband, their boys, and their dog, and spends her free time daydreaming about rivers, rebellion, and love stories from the past.
You can get her updates by joining her newsletter, learn more about her work at punitarice.com, or connect with her on Instagram and TikTok @punitarice.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 5, 2025
**I received an ARC for this book**
Wow did this book suck me right in from the start! The main character, Sahira, lives in a society in which women are taught to be still and silent. She has grown up under the shadow of her mother’s disgraced disappearance. In order to restore her family’s dignity, Sahira has been betrothed to the town’s most eligible bachelor from the most respected family. Unfortunately for Sahira, she is more like her mother than she imagined.
This book is described as a dark romantasy with ties to Punjabi folklore. While this book had relationship romance what really pulled me in were the themes of self love, female friendship, and the power of finding your own strength and voice. Sahira is on a journey of discovering who she is and what it means to be different in a society that refuses to accept anything other than the status quo.
I gave four stars because the first half of this book was so well written with a clear storyline but the second half felt a bit all over the place. Regardless, I could not stop reading until I knew what happened to Sahira. This was a beautifully written debut and I look forward to reading whatever Punita comes up with next!
Wow did this book suck me right in from the start! The main character, Sahira, lives in a society in which women are taught to be still and silent. She has grown up under the shadow of her mother’s disgraced disappearance. In order to restore her family’s dignity, Sahira has been betrothed to the town’s most eligible bachelor from the most respected family. Unfortunately for Sahira, she is more like her mother than she imagined.
This book is described as a dark romantasy with ties to Punjabi folklore. While this book had relationship romance what really pulled me in were the themes of self love, female friendship, and the power of finding your own strength and voice. Sahira is on a journey of discovering who she is and what it means to be different in a society that refuses to accept anything other than the status quo.
I gave four stars because the first half of this book was so well written with a clear storyline but the second half felt a bit all over the place. Regardless, I could not stop reading until I knew what happened to Sahira. This was a beautifully written debut and I look forward to reading whatever Punita comes up with next!
July 7, 2025
I received an ARC of The River’s Daughter.
The River’s Daughter, Punita Rice’s debut novel, is a dark romantasy that takes place in a dystopian world where women and girls are conditioned to remain silent and obedient in order to protect society. Drawing on Punjabi folklore, Rice does a fantastic job of adding in details that makes the reader feel like they are in an alternative version of our world.
I enjoy Sahira’s quest and awakening. The book really shined in the small interactions between family and community. Sahira’s protection of her little cousin and the way Syfir’s family showed their love and care were highlights for me.
4.5 stars for me - the missing piece to the puzzle was I never understood the reasoning behind why the magic of the river was so scary that an oppressive society needed to be formed to suppress it. Maybe I’ve been reading too much Sanderson where magic always has to be explained, but it left me wanting to know more about the magic and its role in bringing down society.
Overall, I really enjoyed Punita’s debut novel and look forward to what she writes in the future!
The River’s Daughter, Punita Rice’s debut novel, is a dark romantasy that takes place in a dystopian world where women and girls are conditioned to remain silent and obedient in order to protect society. Drawing on Punjabi folklore, Rice does a fantastic job of adding in details that makes the reader feel like they are in an alternative version of our world.
I enjoy Sahira’s quest and awakening. The book really shined in the small interactions between family and community. Sahira’s protection of her little cousin and the way Syfir’s family showed their love and care were highlights for me.
4.5 stars for me - the missing piece to the puzzle was I never understood the reasoning behind why the magic of the river was so scary that an oppressive society needed to be formed to suppress it. Maybe I’ve been reading too much Sanderson where magic always has to be explained, but it left me wanting to know more about the magic and its role in bringing down society.
Overall, I really enjoyed Punita’s debut novel and look forward to what she writes in the future!
June 29, 2025
*I received an ARC of The River's Daughter* 🖤
This was, admittedly, my first dive into Punjabi lore and I definitely want more to add to my list. The River's Daughter is a love story: romantic love, community and neighborly love, familial love, and, arguably, most importantly, self-love. The fantastical element of water - something that everyone needs to survive - adds to the reality that we cannot live this life alone, but rather in community with one another.
Phew. But this story is not for the weak!
This was, admittedly, my first dive into Punjabi lore and I definitely want more to add to my list. The River's Daughter is a love story: romantic love, community and neighborly love, familial love, and, arguably, most importantly, self-love. The fantastical element of water - something that everyone needs to survive - adds to the reality that we cannot live this life alone, but rather in community with one another.
Phew. But this story is not for the weak!
June 29, 2025
Lush, lyrical, powerful
I received an early copy of this book for review!
The River’s Daughter is described as a dark romantic fantasy about love, rebellion, and the magic that stirs beneath the surface, and it delivers on that promise.
It’s in the realm of magical realism / rooted in ancestral memory and feminine awakening and it’s based on Indian folklore.
Women are bound by silence and stillness in the repressive town of Jaraan. The story follows Sahira Raazaan, a young woman who’s always followed the rules, until a chance encounter with a river-marked outsider stirs something ancient in her.
From there, the story becomes a haunting and intimate unraveling of family secrets, buried power, and forbidden love.
There’s magic in this book but it’s not dragons and fairies but instead it’s a more quiet, fluid, river magic.
It’s inspired by the tragic Punjabi legend of Mirza Sahiba (which I highly recommend you look up as it adds a beautiful layer of depth to the reading experience).
If you like romantic fantasy, mythic stories, or slow-burn emotional tension, this one’s for you.
One note. The book does include a scene of sexual assault and a scene of torture. Neither are “unnecessary” to the book.
I received an early copy of this book for review!
The River’s Daughter is described as a dark romantic fantasy about love, rebellion, and the magic that stirs beneath the surface, and it delivers on that promise.
It’s in the realm of magical realism / rooted in ancestral memory and feminine awakening and it’s based on Indian folklore.
Women are bound by silence and stillness in the repressive town of Jaraan. The story follows Sahira Raazaan, a young woman who’s always followed the rules, until a chance encounter with a river-marked outsider stirs something ancient in her.
From there, the story becomes a haunting and intimate unraveling of family secrets, buried power, and forbidden love.
There’s magic in this book but it’s not dragons and fairies but instead it’s a more quiet, fluid, river magic.
It’s inspired by the tragic Punjabi legend of Mirza Sahiba (which I highly recommend you look up as it adds a beautiful layer of depth to the reading experience).
If you like romantic fantasy, mythic stories, or slow-burn emotional tension, this one’s for you.
One note. The book does include a scene of sexual assault and a scene of torture. Neither are “unnecessary” to the book.
July 25, 2025
This was a beautifully written book. The writing style was very poetic, and at times reminded me of, “When the Moon Hatched” by Sarah A. Parker.
It is a coming-of-age story that follows Sahira, our main protagonist, as she grapples with questions of belonging and self-discovery. There is also an amazing romance sub-plot that will have you kicking your feet.
This book does explore some heavy themes in terms of female rights, and suppression of women in general. I found myself clenching my hand during parts of this book where Sahira was being treated horrendously. Kudos to Punita Rice for writing in a way that made me want to wish harm on a fictional character. *Cough* Tavin I'm talking to you. *Cough* I think the author did a great job with the storytelling, because I was completely invested, and devoured this book in 2 days. Not to mention there were a few twists near the end of the book that I did not see coming.
Overall, it is a must-read for anyone who appreciates intimate storytelling, cross-cultural narratives, self-discovery, and a little romance. Highly Recommend!
It is a coming-of-age story that follows Sahira, our main protagonist, as she grapples with questions of belonging and self-discovery. There is also an amazing romance sub-plot that will have you kicking your feet.
This book does explore some heavy themes in terms of female rights, and suppression of women in general. I found myself clenching my hand during parts of this book where Sahira was being treated horrendously. Kudos to Punita Rice for writing in a way that made me want to wish harm on a fictional character. *Cough* Tavin I'm talking to you. *Cough* I think the author did a great job with the storytelling, because I was completely invested, and devoured this book in 2 days. Not to mention there were a few twists near the end of the book that I did not see coming.
Overall, it is a must-read for anyone who appreciates intimate storytelling, cross-cultural narratives, self-discovery, and a little romance. Highly Recommend!
August 5, 2025
This mesmerizing story expands upon the old Punjabi legend of Mirza Sahiba. For someone not familiar with the South Asian legend, it bears resemblance to the story of Romeo and Juliet. Fated loves who are threatened to be torn apart by rules and laws meant to control instead of foster love. This is a story of magical-realism, a coming of age story for Sahira, a daughter of the river, as she becomes who she was meant to be and in turn changes the village she came from forever.
I won a free kindle copy of this book through @goodreads and while my TBR backlog is long, I instantly had to read this book. I was so intrigued by the synopsis, reviews and the beautiful cover and this book did not disappoint. Beautiful language built a beautiful world with beautiful characters. This book “flowed” which was quite appropriate given the title and content of the story. I read it in just 3 days time and will be thinking about it for many days to come.
I’m also realizing that I love books that come with maps!
My best friend also won a free copy of this book through Goodreads and I can’t wait for her to read it!
I won a free kindle copy of this book through @goodreads and while my TBR backlog is long, I instantly had to read this book. I was so intrigued by the synopsis, reviews and the beautiful cover and this book did not disappoint. Beautiful language built a beautiful world with beautiful characters. This book “flowed” which was quite appropriate given the title and content of the story. I read it in just 3 days time and will be thinking about it for many days to come.
I’m also realizing that I love books that come with maps!
My best friend also won a free copy of this book through Goodreads and I can’t wait for her to read it!
August 5, 2025
ARC Review
This book is my first contact with Punjabi lore, and it mesmerized me completely! Took me a while to start the book, for me, every book has a time to be read and added to my experience, so I took my time and I am not sorry! is absolutely beautiful!
Punita Rice describes the river, the connection between the women and the river and the nature un such a way that one can almost smell and feel it all! When Sahira connects to the river you can almost feel the water and the blue markings beneath the skin.
In the description of the book, it says it is a story of love, but to me, love is secondary here. Sahira and Syfir are sides of the same coin, they complete each other: the rain always returns to the river. The main theme,I would say, it is that of the search of self, of connecting to the past, to the nature and to obtain freedom.
Sahira's story is one of choice. She chooses her freedom, to not hide behind a man and be overshadowed, but to find an equal to walk together with.
I loved this story! An amazing book!
This book is my first contact with Punjabi lore, and it mesmerized me completely! Took me a while to start the book, for me, every book has a time to be read and added to my experience, so I took my time and I am not sorry! is absolutely beautiful!
Punita Rice describes the river, the connection between the women and the river and the nature un such a way that one can almost smell and feel it all! When Sahira connects to the river you can almost feel the water and the blue markings beneath the skin.
In the description of the book, it says it is a story of love, but to me, love is secondary here. Sahira and Syfir are sides of the same coin, they complete each other: the rain always returns to the river. The main theme,I would say, it is that of the search of self, of connecting to the past, to the nature and to obtain freedom.
Sahira's story is one of choice. She chooses her freedom, to not hide behind a man and be overshadowed, but to find an equal to walk together with.
I loved this story! An amazing book!
July 21, 2025
I loved getting to read this book, it had that concept and element that I was wanting and enjoyed going on this journey. The characters were so well done and was invested in the forbidden love element of this. The concept and characters were so well written and was hooked from the first page. The characters were everything that I was wanting and enjoyed in this type of book. Punita Rice has a strong writing style and was engaged with what was happening.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 4, 2025
Feminism at its finest!!
I absolutely loved this book. I never really trusted third person because most of the books just aren't enough but I enjoyed it in this book and it allowed me to be able to see into multiple people's feeling at the same time. I loved Syfir so much and their love story was amazing. And I also loved the community she had created around herself as well as the sense of belonging that they had towards the end of the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely loved this book. I never really trusted third person because most of the books just aren't enough but I enjoyed it in this book and it allowed me to be able to see into multiple people's feeling at the same time. I loved Syfir so much and their love story was amazing. And I also loved the community she had created around herself as well as the sense of belonging that they had towards the end of the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2025
Beautifully written with a great story. I didn’t want to put it down and didn’t want it to end, either! I loved the world development and how thought-provoking the story is. It felt magical and lush. The story is vividly told and engrossing, and the characters have depth and are all very different.
I’m also intrigued by the mythology this is based on now so I’m going to go look into that too. Definitely going to recommend to others.
I’m also intrigued by the mythology this is based on now so I’m going to go look into that too. Definitely going to recommend to others.
July 26, 2025
Full disclosure, I’m not the biggest reader. I went into this thinking it would be more of a romance novel. I was intrigued by the idea that it was inspired by an Indian folktale. I saw on TikTok that it was inspired by a story of Mirza Sahiba and I looked into that story which seemed interesting. I downloaded the ebook and it unexpectedly blew me away. Im glad I did that research beforehand because throughout the book there are hidden references to the the Mirza Sahiba story. It all comes together in a very satisfying way. Highly recommend!
August 16, 2025
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am reviewing it voluntarily
This was awesome!! I’ve never read a book like it!
The concept of being a river child of a bond so strong of having it run in your blood as blue swirling marks on your body mind blowing
The power and control struggles are as old as time and trying to silence women too but the lengths these people went to was just awful!
A great tale woven with love and loss and pain and suffering
A very different yet poignant story great read
This was awesome!! I’ve never read a book like it!
The concept of being a river child of a bond so strong of having it run in your blood as blue swirling marks on your body mind blowing
The power and control struggles are as old as time and trying to silence women too but the lengths these people went to was just awful!
A great tale woven with love and loss and pain and suffering
A very different yet poignant story great read
July 15, 2025
Thank you, Punita, for the ARC! The River's Daughter is a beautifully written blend of folklore, feminine rebellion, and dark romantic fantasy. The poetic prose and haunting atmosphere made it a unique and enjoyable read. Highly recommend!
July 26, 2025
heart-wrenching, beautifully haunting, and empowering... couldn't put this down!! may we all find our 'river,' our truth, our inner Sahira <3
January 10, 2026
Loved every minute of it, incredibly poetically written. You can see the authors vision and creative imagination on every page as it comes to life. As a south Asian woman this story was incredibly nostalgic in its essence while still speaking to real the real world issues that have followed and transformed us through generations.
August 13, 2025
#goodreadsgiveaway
Beautiful, lyrical, heartbreaking. Thank you, Goodreads and Punita Rice, for bringing me such a wonderful story. This one will stay with me always.
Beautiful, lyrical, heartbreaking. Thank you, Goodreads and Punita Rice, for bringing me such a wonderful story. This one will stay with me always.
Read
October 22, 2025My AP Human Geo textbook is lowkey more interesting than this book.
2 stars
2 stars
August 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beautiful writing, but a slower swim than I expected
I actually won the Kindle version of The River’s Daughter through a Goodreads Giveaway and I was so excited to dive in. The cover is absolutely stunning (moody teal river scene = instant TBR) and the premise hooked me: South Asian folklore, forbidden romance, and magical river powers.
The writing is gorgeous. Punita Rice has such a lyrical, atmospheric style that you can practically feel the mist on your skin. I loved the cultural details and the way the river itself almost becomes a character.
That said, the pacing was very slow. I enjoy a slow burn but this one often felt like wading through water, beautiful but sometimes hard to move forward. The romance was sweet and tender but I did not always feel the spark I wanted, and the plot meandered more than I expected.
Overall, I am glad I read it and I think fans of poetic, immersive storytelling will really appreciate it. For me, it was a “liked but did not love” read.
Beautiful writing, but a slower swim than I expected
I actually won the Kindle version of The River’s Daughter through a Goodreads Giveaway and I was so excited to dive in. The cover is absolutely stunning (moody teal river scene = instant TBR) and the premise hooked me: South Asian folklore, forbidden romance, and magical river powers.
The writing is gorgeous. Punita Rice has such a lyrical, atmospheric style that you can practically feel the mist on your skin. I loved the cultural details and the way the river itself almost becomes a character.
That said, the pacing was very slow. I enjoy a slow burn but this one often felt like wading through water, beautiful but sometimes hard to move forward. The romance was sweet and tender but I did not always feel the spark I wanted, and the plot meandered more than I expected.
Overall, I am glad I read it and I think fans of poetic, immersive storytelling will really appreciate it. For me, it was a “liked but did not love” read.
August 25, 2025
The Rivers Daughter
Punita Rice
Review
I would rate the story as 4/5 as the author Punita Rice had drawn the picturesque of the people who follow the customs ,rules regiulations of the society ,had to be sincere ,loyal and obediedient as stillness stirs the world and could not raise their voices but remained silent .they had no freedom and had their own choices even their marriages was fixed according to their family customs,tradition and choices .They belonged from Jaraan Society and the society taught the women to be confined in their own society .Their voices were buried inside the blood and couldn’t raised voices for their choices.
The story revolves around five years daughter named Sahira who once drowned was finally saved near the riverside water and river holds the girl in her cradle and later mother Ameera wept bitterly and hold her child tightly in her arms and later taught the Sahira the warmness ,calmness and stillness of the river how water flows the touch and calmness of water soothes the mind and aroused completely ,the gazing of water pulls her back towards her ,The feelings of love touches her heart and finally gave her the lesson that one day she should listened what her heart finally speaks out and the feelings of love that was buried in her blood should finally comes out and she should fight for the life which she wanted to I’ve not the life which the family or the society her .so when the girl turned nineteen years old finally the family came into business alliance relation with her friend Tavin Derozi.she knew him from the childhood and they were born and brought up together .Both the families knew each other and wanted to tied the knot with Sahira but she felt the reality of imagination which she was dreaming from her childhood and was infering the river boy whom she wanted to be wife of river boy finally met when she gone to the riverside one day and that mehr boy who doesn’t belong from Jaraan society fell in love with that boy as The feelings of love that was buried beneath the water gushes out from the heart of the girl and wanted to be aroused and acclaimed for the feelings that was buried finally and wanted freedom in her life and to choose the partner according to her choice wanted to live the life which one once she dreamt of that would be free from the bondage of Jaraan Society.
Punita Rice
Review
I would rate the story as 4/5 as the author Punita Rice had drawn the picturesque of the people who follow the customs ,rules regiulations of the society ,had to be sincere ,loyal and obediedient as stillness stirs the world and could not raise their voices but remained silent .they had no freedom and had their own choices even their marriages was fixed according to their family customs,tradition and choices .They belonged from Jaraan Society and the society taught the women to be confined in their own society .Their voices were buried inside the blood and couldn’t raised voices for their choices.
The story revolves around five years daughter named Sahira who once drowned was finally saved near the riverside water and river holds the girl in her cradle and later mother Ameera wept bitterly and hold her child tightly in her arms and later taught the Sahira the warmness ,calmness and stillness of the river how water flows the touch and calmness of water soothes the mind and aroused completely ,the gazing of water pulls her back towards her ,The feelings of love touches her heart and finally gave her the lesson that one day she should listened what her heart finally speaks out and the feelings of love that was buried in her blood should finally comes out and she should fight for the life which she wanted to I’ve not the life which the family or the society her .so when the girl turned nineteen years old finally the family came into business alliance relation with her friend Tavin Derozi.she knew him from the childhood and they were born and brought up together .Both the families knew each other and wanted to tied the knot with Sahira but she felt the reality of imagination which she was dreaming from her childhood and was infering the river boy whom she wanted to be wife of river boy finally met when she gone to the riverside one day and that mehr boy who doesn’t belong from Jaraan society fell in love with that boy as The feelings of love that was buried beneath the water gushes out from the heart of the girl and wanted to be aroused and acclaimed for the feelings that was buried finally and wanted freedom in her life and to choose the partner according to her choice wanted to live the life which one once she dreamt of that would be free from the bondage of Jaraan Society.
August 21, 2025
As a reader of Indian heritage, it’s not often that I come across a romantasy novel that not only embraces magical realism and folklore, but does so with such a rich, authentic South Asian flavor. This book is a refreshing and much-needed addition to the genre — a whimsical, spellbinding tale that honors its cultural roots while offering universal themes of love, fate, and identity.
The story wastes no time pulling you into its enchanting world. From the very first chapter, the plot takes off and never loses momentum. The pacing is a strong point — the narrative flows effortlessly, balancing moments of wonder and introspection with unexpected twists that kept me turning the pages late into the night.
What truly stands out is the author’s ability to weave traditional folklore with fantasy elements in a way that feels both modern and timeless. The cultural details are vivid and familiar, yet never feel forced or overly explained — instead, they invite you in, offering a glimpse of a world that feels both magical and deeply rooted in something real.
The romantic arc is heartfelt without being overly saccharine, and the magical elements are as symbolic as they are plot-driving.
If you enjoy stories that blend myth and magic with a strong emotional core, this book is a beautiful escape — especially for readers looking to see South Asian culture thoughtfully represented in fantasy fiction.
The story wastes no time pulling you into its enchanting world. From the very first chapter, the plot takes off and never loses momentum. The pacing is a strong point — the narrative flows effortlessly, balancing moments of wonder and introspection with unexpected twists that kept me turning the pages late into the night.
What truly stands out is the author’s ability to weave traditional folklore with fantasy elements in a way that feels both modern and timeless. The cultural details are vivid and familiar, yet never feel forced or overly explained — instead, they invite you in, offering a glimpse of a world that feels both magical and deeply rooted in something real.
The romantic arc is heartfelt without being overly saccharine, and the magical elements are as symbolic as they are plot-driving.
If you enjoy stories that blend myth and magic with a strong emotional core, this book is a beautiful escape — especially for readers looking to see South Asian culture thoughtfully represented in fantasy fiction.
December 1, 2025
I received a complimentary ARC through BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest impressions.
The River’s Daughter is a lyrical, emotionally grounded story about girlhood, heritage, and the quiet power of returning to yourself. Punita Rice writes with a softness that still carries weight, and the narrator’s internal landscape is where the book really shines. The pacing is gentle but intentional, giving room for the character’s grief, confusion, and growth to unfold without feeling indulgent. I found the cultural details woven into the story to be some of the strongest elements—they’re specific, textured, and add a richness that makes the world feel fully lived.
The relationships throughout the book—between mother and daughter, generations, and the self—add emotional resonance without tipping into melodrama. The river symbolism is handled with restraint; it feels more like grounding imagery than metaphor shouting at you, which I appreciated. While the plot remains character-forward rather than twist-heavy, it kept my attention because the emotional journey felt honest. A beautiful, introspective read for anyone who loves literary fiction with cultural depth and a narrator you actually believe.
The River’s Daughter is a lyrical, emotionally grounded story about girlhood, heritage, and the quiet power of returning to yourself. Punita Rice writes with a softness that still carries weight, and the narrator’s internal landscape is where the book really shines. The pacing is gentle but intentional, giving room for the character’s grief, confusion, and growth to unfold without feeling indulgent. I found the cultural details woven into the story to be some of the strongest elements—they’re specific, textured, and add a richness that makes the world feel fully lived.
The relationships throughout the book—between mother and daughter, generations, and the self—add emotional resonance without tipping into melodrama. The river symbolism is handled with restraint; it feels more like grounding imagery than metaphor shouting at you, which I appreciated. While the plot remains character-forward rather than twist-heavy, it kept my attention because the emotional journey felt honest. A beautiful, introspective read for anyone who loves literary fiction with cultural depth and a narrator you actually believe.
July 27, 2025
3.75/5
I received an e-ARC for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a retelling/sequel of the Punjabi folktale, Mirza Sahiba. I felt really attached to Sahira, Leela and Syfir. The author did a good job of developing the Jaraan society and the rules of Stillness. The first half had me completely hooked. Each step closer to the wedding day had me more and more angry for Sahira and rooting heavily for her to turn to the River.
However, I was a bit let down by the second half. The quest had good potential but it wasn't as put together as Part 1. I wanted to learn more about the history of the Mehr'an people, the events that caused the rift between the Jaraan society and Mehr'an people, and the River magic in general. Unfortunately, Sahira's journey learning how to connect to the River and use its magic was brushed over.
Overall, I think the book was a good retelling but left something to be desired in both the romantic and fantasy elements.
I received an e-ARC for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a retelling/sequel of the Punjabi folktale, Mirza Sahiba. I felt really attached to Sahira, Leela and Syfir. The author did a good job of developing the Jaraan society and the rules of Stillness. The first half had me completely hooked. Each step closer to the wedding day had me more and more angry for Sahira and rooting heavily for her to turn to the River.
However, I was a bit let down by the second half. The quest had good potential but it wasn't as put together as Part 1. I wanted to learn more about the history of the Mehr'an people, the events that caused the rift between the Jaraan society and Mehr'an people, and the River magic in general. Unfortunately, Sahira's journey learning how to connect to the River and use its magic was brushed over.
Overall, I think the book was a good retelling but left something to be desired in both the romantic and fantasy elements.
July 17, 2025
"The River's Daughter" is a wonderful weaving of Punjabi folklore, magic, and female empowerment.
I found Punita Rice's prose beautiful, and the worldbuilding was vivid. The smallest details she included, like the shape of a door, were imaginative and interesting.
The story starts slow, but I thought the rituals performed by Sahira before her marriage were compelling.
I did feel like the story lost some of its juice in the second half, and it started feeling more YA in the way things concluded.
I also wasn't sure what to make of Tavin, Sahira's intended. Some of his reactions seemed off to me, especially later in the book.
But I still really enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more by the author. I think for anyone looking for fantasy with a dash of romance that incorporates culture, people, and mythology outside of Europe, you're going to like this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I found Punita Rice's prose beautiful, and the worldbuilding was vivid. The smallest details she included, like the shape of a door, were imaginative and interesting.
The story starts slow, but I thought the rituals performed by Sahira before her marriage were compelling.
I did feel like the story lost some of its juice in the second half, and it started feeling more YA in the way things concluded.
I also wasn't sure what to make of Tavin, Sahira's intended. Some of his reactions seemed off to me, especially later in the book.
But I still really enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more by the author. I think for anyone looking for fantasy with a dash of romance that incorporates culture, people, and mythology outside of Europe, you're going to like this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 12, 2025
The River’s Daughter had me excited from the start. The description promised a unique spin on legends and folklore—exactly the kind of premise I love. And honestly, the plot did hook me.
Chapter 5? That one had me angry. I like when a book pulls that kind of reaction out of me because it makes me stop and think about why I’m feeling that way. The whole book had me questioning some hard-hitting issues when it comes to women and their rights. I can appreciate a different POV from another culture—after all, isn’t that why we read? To learn about different people, places, and traditions?
For me, the execution didn’t fully live up to the potential. At times the writing felt a bit juvenile, and while it’s marketed as a “dark romantic fantasy,” I’d say it’s more romantic fantasy with some drama—it never quite hit that darker tone I expected. Still, the concept was imaginative and had flashes of promise.
That said, the end felt dragged out but I’m happy it ended with a HEA.
Chapter 5? That one had me angry. I like when a book pulls that kind of reaction out of me because it makes me stop and think about why I’m feeling that way. The whole book had me questioning some hard-hitting issues when it comes to women and their rights. I can appreciate a different POV from another culture—after all, isn’t that why we read? To learn about different people, places, and traditions?
For me, the execution didn’t fully live up to the potential. At times the writing felt a bit juvenile, and while it’s marketed as a “dark romantic fantasy,” I’d say it’s more romantic fantasy with some drama—it never quite hit that darker tone I expected. Still, the concept was imaginative and had flashes of promise.
That said, the end felt dragged out but I’m happy it ended with a HEA.
December 15, 2025
3.5! I reallyyyy enjoyed this book. I’m a sucker for any books that incorporate some South Asian elements and this book definitely did that. The narrative was compelling and the world building was really interesting as well. I only have a couple critiques. Firstly, I think Sahira and Syfir’s love story needed a little bit more development for me. It started off with this staring match, and then it just felt like lust led to love. I know they have more of a magical connection, but I would have appreciated a little bit more relationship building between them. Secondly, the second half of the book did not deliver upon the plot and structure of the first half. I thought the “Trial” segment of the story was really weak and the conflict resolved too quickly in my opinion. With that being said, I could be being a little harsh and if read through a young adult lens, maybe my critiques dissipate. However, as an adult reader, these two things affected how the story sat with me.
July 9, 2025
I received an ARC copy of The River’s Daughter
I haven’t finished a book in ages, but The River’s Daughter completely pulled me in. I devoured it in a weekend—I truly couldn’t put it down. What I loved most were the beautifully woven Indian cultural elements paired with a haunting supernatural thread, all anchored by a deeply emotional and layered love story…with a touch of sex for some heat.
It gave subtle Romeo and Juliet vibes, but in a way that felt entirely fresh and original. As a female reader, I found myself becoming Sahira—experiencing her emotions as my own. I felt literal butterflies with the first love interest… and then completely fell for the second. He’s my boyfriend in my head <3 It’s the kind of book that lingers with you long after the last page.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
I haven’t finished a book in ages, but The River’s Daughter completely pulled me in. I devoured it in a weekend—I truly couldn’t put it down. What I loved most were the beautifully woven Indian cultural elements paired with a haunting supernatural thread, all anchored by a deeply emotional and layered love story…with a touch of sex for some heat.
It gave subtle Romeo and Juliet vibes, but in a way that felt entirely fresh and original. As a female reader, I found myself becoming Sahira—experiencing her emotions as my own. I felt literal butterflies with the first love interest… and then completely fell for the second. He’s my boyfriend in my head <3 It’s the kind of book that lingers with you long after the last page.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2025
I’m impressed!! Inspired by Punjabi folklore, this follows Sahira, raised in a patriarchal, oppressive town that denies women any freedom. But she harbours a secret: she possesses a forbidden magic that gives her a connection to the river & water, and slowly begins to get to the bottom of her mother’s mysterious disappearance and the lies of her society.
I adore desi-inspired societies & really appreciate how the author constructed a world that drew on folklore and history. The writing was great, and I was incredibly connected to our fmc. I do think the romance element was honestly quite unconvincing and was far more invested in Sahira’s character development outside of it, but overall, a quick and enjoyable read.
Thank you Punita for the early copy!!
I adore desi-inspired societies & really appreciate how the author constructed a world that drew on folklore and history. The writing was great, and I was incredibly connected to our fmc. I do think the romance element was honestly quite unconvincing and was far more invested in Sahira’s character development outside of it, but overall, a quick and enjoyable read.
Thank you Punita for the early copy!!
November 26, 2025
The Rivers Daughter by Punita Rice is one those books that quietly pulls you in and stays with you after you have finished the final page. The writing is super smooth and easy to fall into. The story has a calm and emotional vibe that just pulls you along. It's one of those books where once you start reading it is hard to put down.
What I really enjoyed was Sahira's journey from compliance to awakening - it felt very genuine. I loved watching her slowly push back against society she grew up in and discover her own strength.
A beautiful story about forbidden love, self-discovery, and finding one's voice. Definitely worth the read!
What I really enjoyed was Sahira's journey from compliance to awakening - it felt very genuine. I loved watching her slowly push back against society she grew up in and discover her own strength.
A beautiful story about forbidden love, self-discovery, and finding one's voice. Definitely worth the read!
December 5, 2025
I really really enjoyed how this book mixes South Asian folklore with a fantasy world that feels real and textured. I normally don’t like fantasy and I finished this in a day. The setup of the Jaraan society and the idea of Stillness pulled me in right away, and the first half had a lot of emotional momentum (around duty and choice).
The second half moved into a broader quest, which was interesting, but I did wish we got a little more detail about the Mehr’an people and the deeper history behind the River. This book offers something different in the romantasy space, and Sahira’s journey definitely stayed with me. I can’t wait to read more from Dr Rice :) I would love to read a prequel !
The second half moved into a broader quest, which was interesting, but I did wish we got a little more detail about the Mehr’an people and the deeper history behind the River. This book offers something different in the romantasy space, and Sahira’s journey definitely stayed with me. I can’t wait to read more from Dr Rice :) I would love to read a prequel !
July 13, 2025
I was an advanced reader for "The River's Daughter"
Simply : Beautiful, Honest, and Moving
The River’s Daughter by Punita Rice is a heartfelt, beautifully written story about identity, family, and healing. It captures the quiet strength of women and the complexity of growing up between cultures. The writing is lyrical, the characters feel real, and the emotions run deep. A powerful read that stays with you long after the last page. A true page turner.
Simply : Beautiful, Honest, and Moving
The River’s Daughter by Punita Rice is a heartfelt, beautifully written story about identity, family, and healing. It captures the quiet strength of women and the complexity of growing up between cultures. The writing is lyrical, the characters feel real, and the emotions run deep. A powerful read that stays with you long after the last page. A true page turner.
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