To Bargain with Mortals by R.A. Basu masterfully intertwines magic, politics, and identity in a colonized world. The story follows outcast heiress Poppy Sutherland and gang leader Hasan Devar as their paths collide, sparking a revolution. With rich world-building, gripping themes, and unforgettable characters, this first book in the Reckoning Storm duology is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts.

My favorite books are the ones where I don't even know what words to write in a review because feelings can be difficult to translate.

Poppy is such a unique character, one who strays from the typical heroine stereotypes. She is smart and brave, but she is also flawed and naive, and we get to watch her be confronted by her own bias and grow from it. Character development for the win!

The Devar brothers are a perfect example of family dynamics. And while I adore Hasan and disagreed with Zeyar's bargain, I understand them both. Looking forward to seeing all three brothers together again.

The layered racism in this book really adds depth to the typical "good vs evil" story. I loved the slow reveal of the relationship between vasudhakt and daivyakt as we learned the different points of view. One of my favorite parts in the book was the vasudhakt maid chewing out Harithi.

I do hope Richard makes another appearance. I felt his exit was a little too easy given how much power he had and the entire plan to blackmail Poppy. His exile seemed to be more of plot convenience, so I hope we haven't heard the last of him (if for no other reason then so Poppy can get her revenge).

Lastly, I GREATLY appreciate the book not ending on a cliffhanger. It makes me excited for the next book but not frustrated at being left on the edge.

To Bargain with Mortals is an enthralling blend of fantasy and politics that grips you from the first page and does not let go. Set in the colonized nation of Viryana, this novel masterfully explores identity, power, and rebellion through the compelling journey of Poppy Sutherland and Hasan Devar.

Poppy is a protagonist who immediately steals your heart due to her strength, intelligence, and her fierce ambition. Born poor, but adopted into nobility, Poppy has spent her life caught between two worlds, never full accepted by high society yet disconnected from the people of her native land. What makes Poppy's journey so powerful is that she not only fights external oppression, but she must also confront her own internalized biases. Raised with the Welkish ideas, she struggles to see herself as a true leader of her people. But as the story unfolds, Poppy transforms in someone who does not just seek to sit back and follow the rules, instead she seeks a revolution.

When her AWFUL fiance threatens her future (WE HATE YOU RICHARD), she makes a daring escape, where she crosses paths with Hasan Devar, the enigmatic and ruthless Jackal. With his family's divine magic and unyielding spirit, he is a force to be reckoned with, making him the perfect balance to Poppy's strategic mind.

Basu's world-building is rich and immersive, seamlessly weaving in themes of colonialism, resistance, and the cost of power. This novel is beautifully written, with prose that is both poetic and sharp, which enhances the emotional weight of the character's struggles. The stakes are high, the twists are exhilarating, and the ending is tied together nicely.

If you love historical fantasy with depth and revolutionary intrigue, To Bargain with Mortals is an absolute must-read.

To Bargain with Mortals by R.A. Basu is a breathtaking, emotionally charged fantasy that weaves together politics, magic, and the complexities of identity in a colonized world. This book is the first in the Reckoning Storm duology, and it’s an absolute powerhouse of a story. Set in the colonized nation of Viryana, it follows Poppy Sutherland, an outcast heiress caught between two worlds, and Hasan Devar, the infamous gang leader known as the Jackal. Their paths collide in a way that’s both explosive and deeply moving, setting the stage for a revolution that could change everything.

What makes this book so extraordinary is its depth. Basu doesn’t shy away from exploring heavy themes like colonization, identity, and the weight of inherited histories, but she balances these with moments of hope, resilience, and even tenderness. The world-building is rich and immersive, and the political intrigue keeps you on the edge of your seat. But it’s the characters who truly steal the show—their struggles, their relationships, and their determination to fight for a better future are incredibly moving.

I don’t think I could love a book more than this one. It made me incredibly emotional at times, but it also left me in awe of its brilliance. The way Basu crafts her story—with such care, nuance, and heart—is nothing short of phenomenal. If you’re looking for a fantasy that’s as thought-provoking as it is gripping, To Bargain with Mortals is an absolute must-read. I can’t wait to see where the Reckoning Storm duology goes next!