The Surviving Sky

by Kritika H. Rao
The Surviving Sky cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Fantasy, Young Adult, Adventure
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 7680
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781803361253
  • Publisher: Titan Books
  • Published: 2023-06-13
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

High above a jungle-planet, humanity's last refuges are plant-made civilizations held together by tradition, technology, and arcane science. Architects, revered for their ability to psychically manipulate the architecture, are crucial to the survival of these floating cities. Iravan, a charismatic and powerful architect, finds his marriage to Ahilya strained as she seeks change in their society. When Iravan is accused of pushing his abilities to forbidden limits, their paths become intertwined, leading to the emergence of deadly truths that challenge everything they believe. As their city begins to plummet, their discoveries might destroy their marriage, their culture, and their entire civilization. The Surviving Sky is a lush world of cataclysmic storms, planet-wide jungles, and devastating magic. Perfect for fans of N.K. Jemisin, Tasha Suri, and Martha Wells, this explosive new science fantasy explores themes of power, privilege, and the struggle for change.

Reviews
Reddit - Fantasy · u/Unknown · 2023-09-27
enjoyable 3.50

The reviewer found the book enjoyable and interesting, particularly praising the interpersonal storyline and the exploration of magic. The unique world-building and flying city concept were highlights.

This Reddit user found The Surviving Sky to be a good read with a promising debut. They particularly enjoyed the interpersonal storyline and the careful exploration of magic. The unique world-building, especially the concept of a flying city, was a standout feature. The reviewer appreciated the depth and creativity in the story, making it an engaging and enjoyable read. The book's blend of science fiction and fantasy elements was well-executed, adding to its overall appeal.

Quick quotes

    I finished it recently. I thought it was very enjoyable and interesting.

    The interpersonal storyline is excellent.

    The exploration of magic is carefully built.

Fantasy Hive · 2023-06-13
fascinating 4.50

The novel is praised for its fast-paced narrative and deep philosophical undertones, making it a standout debut. The world-building is intricate and the characters are memorable.

This reviewer found The Surviving Sky to be a captivating blend of science fiction and fantasy, with a unique setting that draws from Hindu philosophy. The story's fast pace and rich world-building make it a compelling read. The characters are well-developed and evolve throughout the narrative, adding depth to the overall experience. The philosophical elements add a layer of complexity that sets it apart from other works in the genre. Overall, it's a debut that will likely resonate with fans of thoughtful and imaginative storytelling.

Quick quotes

    The Surviving Sky is a fast-paced, fascinating novel wrapped in philosophy and spirituality.

    Rao's debut will dazzle many.

    The combination is electric.

The Shaggy Shepherd · 2023-06-13
intriguing 4.00

The reviewer enjoyed how the book subverted a common trope and found the magic system intriguing. The story's unique approach and engaging elements make it a standout read.

This reviewer was pleasantly surprised by how The Surviving Sky took a trope they typically dislike and turned it into something enjoyable. The magic system is particularly noteworthy, adding a layer of intrigue to the story. The narrative's unique approach and engaging elements make it a memorable read. The reviewer appreciated the fresh perspective and the way the story kept them invested throughout. It's a book that manages to stand out in a crowded genre.

Quick quotes

    It managed to take my least favorite trope and flipped it on its head in a way that I truly enjoyed.

    Had a magic system that was fascinating.

    The Surviving Sky is a massively impressive debut.

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