South Asian stories are often tales rich in culture and folklore, encapsulating the nuances and intricacies of a long, rich, and complex history. Historical details peppered in with social commentary is often a common thread in many South Asian stories, and this list is no different. We see the impacts of colonialism, social hierarchy, and gender roles sweep through many of these books.
When gods and demons and religious customs still have a place in the everyday life of many South Asians, it’s only natural that it would be a part of our writing as well.
My novel Island Witch is a gothic retelling of Sri Lanka’s most famous folktale. Set in the 1800s, Amara is the daughter of a demon-priest, an ancient tradition now shunned by the villagers. When men start to disappear in the jungle, it’s up to Amara to search for answers.
Below are 7 books that draw inspiration from the myths, lore, and history of India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.
Empire of Sand by Tasha Suri
In a sweeping fantasy with a captivating romantic core, set against a backdrop inspired by Mughal India, Empire of Sand unfolds through the perspective of Mehr, an illegitimate, highborn daughter of a governor in the Ambham Empire. The mother Mehr barely knew was from the Amrithi people—an outcast community descended from desert spirits who possess powers that are both coveted and persecuted throughout the Empire. When the Emperor’s mystics recognise her Amrithi abilities, they force Mehr into a marriage with one of their own, leaving her entangled in a web of deceit and games between men, gods, and demons.
Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel
In this epic retelling from the perspective of the vilified queen from the Ramayana, Kaikeyi is the story of a princess in a patriarchal society, and her journey from discovering her own special skills, to growing them, and then wielding them to achieve her life’s purpose. A must-read for those who enjoy alternate versions of stories they’ve grown up with, especially those that centre around scorned women.
The Seven Moons of Maaeli Almeida by Shehan Karunatileke
The story begins with our protagonist—professional war photographer, closeted gay and compulsive gambler, Maali Almeida—waking up in the “in-between,” an after-life where he has seven moons (or seven nights) to complete the task of guiding his friends and family to a box of photographs taken during his assignments. These photographs, according to him, will have the power to bring down governments and stop wars. But first he has to navigate his way through the afterlife, rife with ghosts, ghouls, pretas and demons. Narrated in the second person, The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida mixes magical realism, historical fiction, political satire, and dark humor, taking us through one of the darkest, most violent chapters in Sri Lanka’s history.
The Tiger at Midnight by Swati Teerdhala
Kunal, a dedicated soldier, meets Esha, a girl he assumes has lost her way. He helps her, as any chivalrous soldier would do, but the next morning Kunal wakes to find his uncle, the general, dead in bed. Kunal is tasked with hunting down his uncle’s assassin with the promise of being promoted himself. It doesn’t take long for Kunal to piece together that the girl from the night before was the assassin. In this deadly cat and mouse game, filled with lots of witty banter, and spectacular world building inspired by Indian history and Hindu mythology, you’ll find yourself rooting for both Esha and Kunal alike.
Loot by Tania James
Set in the 18th century, this captivating historical novel follows Abbas, a gifted young woodcarver. His exceptional talent catches the eye of Tipu Sultan, leading him into service at the palace. Tasked with constructing a giant tiger automaton as a gift for Tipu’s sons returning from British captivity, Abbas’ story is mirrored in the tumultuous events that shape the landscape across war-torn India and Europe. When Abbas discovers that Tipu’s palace has been pillaged by British forces, and the tiger automaton is nowhere to be found, he embarks on a mission to retrieve the stolen tiger from an English countryside estate, where it is showcased among a collection of plundered art.
The Star Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi
Maya always believed she was cursed, an idea that was solidified when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Married off to Amar and now the queen of Akaran, Maya is surprised to find independence, and a voice. But both Amar and Akaran are full of secrets—and despite growing to love her husband, Maya is not sure who she can truly trust. Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans many reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most, as well as herself. Based on the Greek mythology of Hades and Persephone, Chokshi beautifully integrates Indian lore and history into this magical tale.
Night of the Raven, Dawn of the Dove by Rati Mehrotra
Katyani’s primary role in the Chandela kingdom is to serve as an advisor and protector to the crown prince, Ayan. When a series of assassination attempts threatens the royal family, she is sent to the gurukul of Acharya Mahavir, accompanied by the prince and his cousin, for protection and training. Their training is cut short, however, when they are urgently summoned back to Chandela. Tragedy befalls them and Katyani is separated from the only life she has ever known. Alone and betrayed in a land overrun by monsters, she must delve into her past to uncover answers, save her loved ones, and determine her own destiny.
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