A Lion's Pride
Available in ePub, Paperback (ISBN 978-1069401897), Hardcover, and Audiobook. First Published, January 7h, 2026.
"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.
IN THE SHADOWS, Sinha’s Ancient Enemy Plots his Revenge.
A Lion's Pride by D.M. De Alwis
Audiobook Releases 15 March, 2026.
D.M. De Alwis is a Canadian-born Sri Lankan author who lives in Canada with a large family of three kids and three pets, who often serve as inspiration for her books. Her passion for researching and writing prehistoric fantasy grew while playing pachinko through several careers. When not writing, she can be found volunteering for the cadet corps and teaching.
Available Book Formats & Details
Format: Paperback
- Language: English
- Print Length: 318 pages
- ISBN-13: 978-1069401892
- ISBN-10: 1069401897
- Item Weight: 0.63 lbs (approx. 10.1 ounces / 286 grams)
- Dimensions: 5 x 0.8 x 8 inches
Format: Hardcover
- Language: English
- Print Length: 318 pages
- ISBN-13: 978-1069666048
- Item Weight: 1.06 lbs
- Dimensions: 5.74 x 0.99 x 8.74 inches
Format: eBook (Kindle)
- Language: English
- Print Length: 319 pages
- ASIN: B0GCPDK7P4
- File Size: Approximately 484 KB
General Publication Info
- Author: D.M. De Alwis
- Publisher: Ahasae Tharu Publishing
- Publication Date: January 6, 2026
- Series: Pawn of Samsara Duology (Book 2)
- Amazon ASIN: B0GCPDK7P4
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
Need More Information?
For a deeper dive into cosmology, the Hindu God Narasima, or my inspirations for retelling his origins in A LION'S HEAD, read this post.
If you are interested in THE PAWN OF SAMSARA DUOLOGY, you might also like:
- THE FOX WIFE by Yangsze Choo,
- CIRCE by Madeline Miller,
- THE GODDESS OF RIVER by Vaishnavi Patel,
- Gaiman's NORSE GODS and
- Katherine Kerr's Deverry Series.
- Valdemar Series by Mercedes Lackey
- Witchworld Series by Andre Norton
- Works of J.R. Tolkien
- Works of Tamara Pierce
- Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are dead by Tom Stoppard
- The works of Terry Pratchett
- The works of Tamora Pierce
Check out my bookshop for more on similar titles and those of social media friends writing the same genre.
Pawn of Samsara Duology
Also from this universe
- A Water Horse (short story)
The Pawn of Samsara Duology
A king is hell-bent on destroying the universe. Isha's pact with the tyrant grants his people safe passage home. But everything goes wrong for him when the gods unleash their champion.