Kirkus Review
A lost princess sets out to forge her own path and reunite with her family.In this first book in debut author Mandanna's Celestial Trilogy, Esmae is estranged from her family and growing up in Wychstar, a kingdom perched on a space station. The king of Wychstar, Darshan, conducts a competition for ownership of the invincible spaceship Titania. Esmae surprises everyone with her archery skillsand the revelation of her true, royal identity. Unfortunately, her victory complicates matters, and she must now walk the tightrope between helping her brothers win the kingdom of Kali and maintaining ties with her uncle, Elvar, who usurped Kali from her brothers. As Esmae struggles to determine the best path to follow and whom she should support, she discovers who her true friends are, tries to figure out where she really belongs, and realizes the sacrifices she must make to avenge her family. This is a fast-paced, engaging tale sure to keep readers hooked with its twists and turns while they wholeheartedly cheer for Esmae. Names of many characters (Amba and Rama to name a couple) and numerous snippets of the storyline are inspired by Hindu mythology, although in a somewhat random manner. Gods and goddesses are woven into the story to add to its fantastical allure.An incisive story nuanced by dilemmas about love, belonging, and conflicting loyalties. (Space opera. 14-adult) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Booklist Review
Inspired by an ancient Indian epic, Mandanna tells the sf-fantasy fusion story of Esmae, who plots to win the infamous warship Titania in a competition so she can return home and help her exiled brother reclaim his throne from their usurper uncle. But Esmae's plan soon unravels, and she returns home to the space station Kali only to find herself amid the enemy. Complicating things is Esmae's increasing need to guard her heart against the current rulers of Kali, who welcome her with open arms. Caught between supporting her brother and her growing desire for peace, Esmae maneuvers herself through a political scene full of curses and meddling gods, desperate to find middle ground in an impending civil war. Although the narrative can be difficult to follow at times, Mandanna seamlessly blends old deities with space exploration as she crafts a progressively complex political tale founded in a depth of emotion that will leave readers torn between sides.--Amna Haque Copyright 2018 Booklist