Picture a South Asian storyteller who conjures oceanic worlds teeming with monsters and rebellion—meet Tanvi Berwah! This rising star in Young Adult fantasy has captivated readers with her bold narratives and unflinching exploration of societal issues. From her debut novel to her growing influence, Berwah’s stories are as thrilling as they are thought-provoking, blending South Asian-inspired settings with heart-pounding adventure.
Born and raised in New Delhi, Berwah’s imagination was sparked by bedtime tales and literary magazines, igniting a lifelong passion for storytelling. Her unique voice, shaped by her heritage and love for epic fantasies like The Lord of the Rings, has made her a standout in contemporary YA literature.
The Making of Tanvi Berwah
Tanvi Berwah grew up surrounded by stories in India’s bustling capital, where her family’s tales fueled her early creativity. By age seven, she was penning short stories, often inspired by fantasy giants like J.R.R. Tolkien and J.K. Rowling. She pursued a Bachelor’s and Master’s in English Literature at the University of Delhi, weaving her love for Game of Thrones and epic narratives into her academic work. A history and space enthusiast, Berwah once dreamed of becoming an astronomer, but her lack of mathematical prowess led her to craft worlds through words instead. Her writing journey took a decade, culminating in her selection for the Pitch Wars mentorship program in 2019, which propelled her debut novel to publication.
Tanvi Berwah’s Unforgettable Stories
Berwah’s debut, Monsters Born and Made (2022), is a South Asian-inspired dystopian fantasy that blends the intensity of The Hunger Games with the mythic allure of The Scorpio Races. Set in an oceanic world, it follows 16-year-old Koral, a Hunter who captures monstrous maristags for a deadly chariot race to save her family. Praised for its vivid world-building and sharp critique of the caste system, the novel earned accolades from outlets like Lightspeed Magazine for its fearless voice.
Her follow-up, Somewhere in the Deep (2024), dives deeper into the same universe, introducing Krescent Dune, a battle-scarred teen fighting monstrous creatures in underground pits to escape her parents’ debt. Critics, including Publisher’s Weekly, lauded its exploration of class, colonialism, and greed, with Vanessa Len calling it a “breathtaking, fast-paced thrill ride.” Berwah’s style—marked by defiant heroines, intricate world-building, and high-stakes action—resonates with readers craving stories that challenge societal norms.
Berwah also contributed to the anthology Foreshadow, showcasing her versatility in crafting shorter narratives. Her ability to weave South Asian cultural elements with universal themes of rebellion and survival sets her apart in the YA fantasy genre.
Why Tanvi Berwah Matters
Tanvi Berwah’s impact lies in her ability to craft fantastical worlds that mirror real-world struggles, particularly around class and identity. Her South Asian-inspired narratives fill a vital gap in YA fantasy, offering representation and resonance for readers seeking diverse voices. By tackling themes like systemic oppression and personal defiance, Berwah inspires young readers to question the status quo. Her growing popularity among Indian and global audiences signals a shift toward embracing culturally rich YA stories, cementing her as a voice to watch.
- Birthplace: New Delhi, India
- Key Works: Monsters Born and Made (2022), Somewhere in the Deep (2024), Foreshadow (anthology)
- Education: Bachelor’s and Master’s in English Literature, University of Delhi
Ready to dive into a world of monsters and rebellion? Snag Monsters Born and Made or Somewhere in the Deep and discover Tanvi Berwah’s thrilling YA fantasy today!