Pawn of Samsara Duology (Book 2)

A Lion's Pride

Sinha's mission to find his pride in the mortal realm.


A Lion's Pride Cover
"A myths based, fantasy epic with strong characterisation and a protagonist worth rooting for." — The Wishing Shelf

A LIFE SPENT ALONE: A thousand years have passed since Sinha evolved into an asura with the ability to transform into a lion and a man. Left to live in the mortal realm—knowledge alone will not suffice for experience—he seeks out his reincarnates from his ancient past, who serve as guides.

NO VEIL BETWEEN WORLDS: Hungry ghosts and demons prey on the human population surrounding the city of sages, Khankal.

FROM THE SHADOWS: Sinha's ancient enemy plots his revenge.

Editorial Review

"A myths based, fantasy epic with strong characterisation and a protagonist worth rooting for.."

— The Wishing Shelf

Publication Details

Author: D.M. De Alwis
Publisher: Ahasae Tharu Publishing
Pub Date: November 2025
Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook

Hardcover ISBN: 978-1069666048
Paperback ISBN: 978-1069401892
eBook ISBN: 978-1069401885
Audiobook ISBN: 978-1069666086
ASIN: B0GCPDK7P4

The Samsara Universe

A Lion's Head
Volume I

A Lion's Head

The journey begins with Sinha's divine mandate and the wrath that follows.

Explore Volume I →
A Water Horse
Short Story

A Water Horse

A folklore-inspired tale of Saoirse and the each-uisge.

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Full Editorial Review from The Wishing Shelf ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"A myths based, fantasy epic with strong characterisation and a protagonist worth rooting for.." The Wishing Shelf

REVIEW

I must say, this is a very well-written and smartly plotted, myths-based, fantasy novel from the pen of talented writer, D.M. De Alwis. It's very much the story of Sinha who has a talent of transforming from a big cat to a human. It's also a tale of growing evil, as we follow Sinha's life in the mortal realm. It seems he is no longer to be the pawn of gods. But we shall see!

A lot to enjoy here, folks. But I have to say, "Read a Lion's Head first." It's a good book although I have to say, the second book is stronger. The author, it seems, has perfected her art; as a result, the opening of A Lion's Pride is better, and the pacing is much improved over the first book. But it's 'character development' where this author excels. The protagonist, Sinha, is fully developed and fun to get to know and root for. Also, the secondary characters are often fascinating. Another of the novel's strengths is the Buddhist, Hindu cosmology that's interwoven into the story. So, from a cultural POV, it's also rather interesting.
So, who is the book for? Hmm, YA possibly, and adult too. Fans of Bruce Nesmith's Loki Redeemed novels, I suspect, will find this book interesting. Or the wonderful The Words of Kings and Prophets - which I love. I think most readers will enjoy getting to know Sinha, the sprinkling of humor, and the complexity of the mythical world - and let's not forget the demons!

All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable read.

A 'Wishing Shelf' Book Review

What readers are saying from Goodreads,

Five Stars: I really liked how Sinha met each of the other characters. I also liked brother Lion's personality, and the plot around Isha's cure. I also liked the nature of Sinha's appearance, and what clothes he's wearing. Before I read this book, I didn't really know anything about Hindu mythology, or the nature of getting older. One thing I would like to know: Why can't Sinha choose to have normal hands when he's a more powerful asura? I liked this book more than the first one in the series.
Review by D. Furkin