This was an interesting read, it opened up the Mayan/ Aztec civilization to me. The insight into how importabt rituals were to this society was fascinating. Centre of it is Ahkin, a prince thrust into the role of emperor before he is ready due to the untimely death of his father. We see his struggles with insecurities and self doubt. As part of his ascension to the throne he is required to marry. So enters Mayana, not only a princess but also a contender in a competition for the right to be Ahkin's empress, a competition that she needs to win at all costs, for the alternative is death. What follows is a rich world of romance(slow burn) betrayals and tensions between old customs and new ideas. A unique magic system full of elemental and blood magic. The myths and lore is fascinating and really works to pull the story together. I am normally not a fan of a cliff-hanger ending, but this one was done well with a resolution I was happy with. Excited to see where Lani Forbes takes this story next. Reading the authors note at the end was particularly insightful, as she talks about her research into the South American civilisations this book was based on. This book is now live, I would recommend checking it out. Thank you @netgalley and lani taylor for providing me with an eARC for an honest review.
