A Drop of Venom by Sajni Patel
If you happen to’re on the lookout for a feminist retelling of Medusa steeped in Indian mythology, welcome to A Drop of Venom.
Manisha has been operating from monsters her complete life. She is a part of the naga, a regularly-targeted group by the dominion. She is likely to be a priestess of the floating temples now, however that doesn’t maintain the monsters at bay.
Pratyush, then again, is a monster slayer. He’s the King’s prized possession. Each time Pratyush slays a monster, he will get one other yr added to his life. It must be a candy gig, however Pratyush is so sick of being directed by the King.
When Manisha and Pratyush meet, the 2 see that it’s doable to assist each other chart a complete new course. Sadly, that gained’t be straightforward—nor will it occur in any speedy future. Manish is sexually assaulted by a customer and falls right into a pit of vipers, whereas Pratyush is distributed on one more harmful mission from the King. It’s one which, if Pratyush is profitable, will grant him his freedom but it surely’s additionally as more likely to kill him within the course of.
Manisha isn’t lifeless although. She rises from the pit stronger than ever. Because it seems, she is the monster whom Pratyush has been despatched to take down.