The Legend of Meneka: A Novel

THE LEGEND OF MENEKA IS... "A thrilling read." — Washington Post • “Sensual and thought-provoking.” — Shannon Chakraborty • "Empowering and seductive." — Tasha Suri • “A feast for the senses.” — Thea Guanzon • "Nothing short of resplendent." — Roshani Chokshi • "A heart stopping, magical adventure." — Ehigbor Okosun

Kritika H. Rao weaves a lyrical, exhilarating fantasy inspired by Hindu mythology— the story of a celestial dancer tasked with seducing a human sage, but when she finds herself falling for her mark, she will be forced to choose between loyalties and being true to herself.

Across the mortal and immortal realms, celestial dancers known as apsaras are revered for their beauty, allure, and enchanting magic. But Meneka knows that is not all they are. Trained as a weapon—a warrior—Meneka despises leaving each of her marks in thrall to her potent illusions. With every seduction Lord Indra, king of heaven, demands of her for his political gain, she craves her freedom more and more.

When a mortal sage’s growing powers threaten Indra’s supremacy in his own realm, Meneka seizes a rare opportunity. She strikes a deal—if she can seduce this dangerous man, Indra will allow her to forgo future missions. But upon meeting the sage, Kaushika, Meneka finds herself captivated by his energy, ignited by his empathy and passion, even though he challenges everything she’s ever known. Can she overthrow the man who she is—little by little—falling for, or is Kaushika seducing her instead? As war looms in the skies, Meneka must choose between her duty to protect her home and the thrumming of her own heart.

Empowering, spellbinding, and romantic, The Legend of Meneka breathes new life into Hindu mythology to weave a lustrous tale of a woman discovering the cosmic power within herself. Perfect for readers of Daughter of the Moon Goddess, Kaikeyi, and Circe, this first book in the Divine Dancers duology is a completely unputdownable adventure for lovers of slow-burn romances and myth retellings.