Picture an Indian-born storyteller who weaves tales of magic, mythology, and fierce heroines—meet Rati Mehrotra! Now based in Toronto, this Indo-Canadian author has captivated readers with her young adult fantasy and science fiction novels, blending Indian mythology with themes of power and justice. From her Asiana duology to the enchanting Night of the Raven, Dawn of the Dove, Mehrotra’s vivid worlds invite readers to explore alternate realities where courage and identity reign supreme.
With a background in economics and environmental policy, Mehrotra’s journey to bestselling author is as inspiring as her stories. Her ability to craft culturally rich narratives makes her a standout voice in speculative fiction, perfect for readers craving adventure with a touch of heart.
The Making of Rati Mehrotra
Born and raised in India, Rati Mehrotra grew up surrounded by the vibrant stories of the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and tales of Goddess Kali, the fierce slayer of demons. These myths, shared in her grandmother’s home near a zoo where monkeys roamed free, sparked her love for storytelling. Initially, Mehrotra pursued a career as an economist, later working in environmental policy for the World Conservation Union across several countries. Yet, her passion for writing called louder, leading her to trade equations for epic narratives. Now settled in Toronto, she channels her global experiences and Indian heritage into her work, creating stories that resonate with readers worldwide.
Rati Mehrotra’s Unforgettable Stories
Mehrotra’s debut, Markswoman (2018), kicks off the Asiana duology, a thrilling blend of science fiction, fantasy, and Indian mythology. It follows Kyra, a young assassin in the Order of Kali, navigating a post-apocalyptic world with magical blades and a quest for vengeance. The sequel, Mahimata (2019), deepens Kyra’s journey, exploring love, loss, and justice. Both novels showcase Mehrotra’s knack for crafting strong female protagonists and intricate world-building.
Her young adult debut, Night of the Raven, Dawn of the Dove (2022), is a standalone fantasy set in a monster-filled medieval India. The story follows Katyani, a guardswoman bound by a forbidden soul bond, as she uncovers secrets and battles political intrigue. Praised for its brisk pacing and vivid imagery, it earned a 2023 Aurora Award nomination. Flower and Thorn (2023) dives into 16th-century Gujarat, weaving magic and resistance against colonial forces. Mehrotra’s stories often explore anti-colonialism, environmentalism, and feminine power, infused with the sensory richness of Indian culture—think spicy food and colorful kites.
Her short fiction, appearing in outlets like Uncanny Magazine and Lightspeed Magazine, has been shortlisted for the Sunburst Award and nominated for the Aurora Award. Her recent story, “Men with Tails,” reflects her personal experience with long COVID, adding depth to her diverse portfolio.
Why Rati Mehrotra Matters
Rati Mehrotra’s work bridges cultures, bringing Indian mythology to global audiences while tackling universal themes like identity and resilience. Her heroines, from Kyra to Katyani, inspire readers to embrace their strength and question power structures. By weaving environmental and social justice into her narratives, Mehrotra sparks conversations about the world we live in, all while delivering page-turning adventures. Her growing recognition, including translations of her work into Russian and Spanish, signals her rising influence in speculative fiction.
As an Indo-Canadian author, Mehrotra enriches the genre with diverse perspectives, making fantasy and sci-fi more inclusive. Her stories are a testament to the power of following one’s passion, proving that even a former economist can become a literary star.
- Born: India, date not publicly available
- Key Works: Markswoman, Mahimata, Night of the Raven, Dawn of the Dove, Flower and Thorn
- Awards: Shortlisted for Sunburst Award, nominated for Aurora Award
- Fun Fact: She loves cooking, and food often sneaks into her world-building!
Snag Night of the Raven, Dawn of the Dove and dive into Rati Mehrotra’s spellbinding blend of mythology and adventure!