For readers who love Percy Jackson & the Olympians, The Savage Fortress by Sarwat Chadda is an excellent companion series that delivers a thrilling blend of mythology, action, humor, and a modern hero thrust into an ancient conflict. While Percy Jackson is rooted in Greek mythology, The Savage Fortress taps into Hindu mythology, bringing its gods, demons, and legendary battles to life in a fast-paced, high-stakes adventure. With its reluctant hero, deep mythological connections, and intense action sequences, this series captures the same energy, humor, and epic storytelling that make Percy Jackson so beloved.
Much like Percy Jackson, The Savage Fortress follows a reluctant young hero who discovers he is connected to ancient gods and supernatural forces. Ash Mistry is an ordinary British teenager visiting India for the summer, unaware that his life is about to change forever. He soon learns that his fate is intertwined with an age-old battle between gods and demons and that he possesses a power that could determine the fate of the world.
Like Percy, Ash struggles to accept his role, questioning his abilities and responsibilities. He is not a natural warrior, and much of his journey is about learning to fight, understanding his connection to the mythological world, and embracing the destiny he never asked for. His sarcastic humor and relatable personality make him a compelling protagonist for readers who loved Percy’s mix of snark, bravery, and heart.
Just as Percy Jackson introduces readers to Greek gods and their influence on the modern world, The Savage Fortress immerses readers in Hindu mythology, showcasing powerful deities like Rama, Vishnu, and Kali, along with terrifying demons and warriors from ancient legends. The story weaves together timeless myths with a present-day adventure, making the mythology feel fresh, engaging, and highly relevant.
Chadda masterfully brings Hindu mythology to life by integrating its legendary figures into an action-packed narrative. The demons Ash encounters—like rakshasas, monstrous shapeshifters with dark magic—are just as formidable as any of the monsters Percy faces in his battles against Greek mythology’s fiercest creatures. The connection between the past and present, and the idea that these ancient beings are still influencing the world today, echoes Percy Jackson’s approach to mythology and makes for an exhilarating read.
One of Percy Jackson’s greatest strengths is its nonstop action, fast-moving plots, and high-stakes battles, and The Savage Fortress delivers this in spades. From the moment Ash is drawn into the world of gods and demons, he is on the run, fighting supernatural warriors, uncovering lost artifacts, and facing monstrous enemies.
Chadda’s action sequences are intense, cinematic, and packed with tension, similar to the battle scenes in Percy Jackson. Whether Ash is dodging deadly creatures, wielding ancient weapons, or standing off against a powerful villain, the story keeps readers engaged with thrilling combat and unexpected twists. The sense of danger is real, and the stakes feel high, making each battle an adrenaline-filled moment that pushes Ash further into his heroic role.
While Percy Jackson balances humor with adventure, The Savage Fortress leans into a darker, more intense version of the hero’s journey. Ash is not just fighting mythical creatures for sport—he is battling for survival in a world that is often brutal and unforgiving. The villains in this series, especially the rakshasas and the sinister Lord Alexander Savage, are truly menacing, creating an atmosphere of danger and suspense that keeps readers on edge.
Despite this darker tone, Ash’s wit and sarcasm provide the same kind of humor that makes Percy’s voice so enjoyable. His banter, inner monologue, and reluctant approach to heroism create a balance between light and dark, much like how Percy Jackson uses humor to ease tension while maintaining the stakes of its mythological conflicts.
OLike Percy, Ash is not a fully formed hero at the start of his journey. He struggles with self-doubt, fear, and the pressure of living up to a destiny that seems impossible. His growth throughout The Savage Fortress is a powerful and compelling arc, making his victories feel earned and his challenges deeply emotional.
Both series explore themes of family, identity, and sacrifice, showing that heroism is not just about having powers or fighting monsters—it’s about making difficult choices, standing up for what’s right, and protecting the people you love. Ash’s transformation from a reluctant teenager into a warrior fighting against evil is one of the most satisfying aspects of the series, making it an incredible read for Percy Jackson fans who love stories of courage and destiny.
For readers who loved Percy Jackson and are looking for a new adventure with a fresh mythological perspective, an action-packed story, and a hero coming to terms with his extraordinary fate, The Savage Fortress is an excellent choice. It brings Hindu mythology into the modern world, offers edge-of-your-seat action, and introduces a snarky, reluctant hero who must grow into his power—all elements that made Percy Jackson such a thrilling series.
With its fast-paced adventure, gripping mythology, and intense battles, The Savage Fortress captures the same sense of excitement, danger, and discovery that makes Percy Jackson a fan-favorite. It is an absolute must-read for anyone looking for another mythology-driven adventure with high stakes, humor, and heart.