It was so much fun to talk to Roshani (pronounced rash-nee) Chokshi about Book 5 in her NYT bestselling Pandava series.

In this final book, the Pandava sisters only have until the next full moon to stop the Sleeper from gaining access to the nectar of immortality, which will grant him infinite power. But how can Aru, Mini, and Brynne hope to defeat him without their celestial weapons? Will the Sleeper gain immortality or be stopped once and for all?

I love how Roshani weaves a fantastical narrative that seamlessly intertwines Hindu cosmology and folklore. Combined with her strong female characters and her witty dialogue, this is one of the most enjoyable Middle Grade series.

The Sleeper and his army are already plundering the labyrinth, and the sisters can’t even enter. Their quest to get in will have them calling on old friends, meeting new allies, and facing fearsome trials, like…performing in a rock concert? When the moment of confrontation finally arrives, it’s up to Aru to decide who deserves immortality, the devas or the asuras. The most unexpected answer will come from a most unexpected place.

More surprises and delights, gods and demons, and laughs and tears await in this immensely satisfying conclusion to the wild ride that began with the lighting of a lamp.

Book 1 in the series, Aru Shah and the End of Time, received a starred Kirkus review.